1998 Chrysler Neon vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler Neon would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 Chrysler Neon. (131 HP @ 5850 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Chrysler Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 31 kg more than 1998 Chrysler Neon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler Neon, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Chrysler Neon (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Chrysler Neon | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
Model | Neon | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1109 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |