1998 Dodge Neon vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Dodge Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Dodge Neon would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Neon (150 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Neon weights approximately 99 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge 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 Dodge Neon (175 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm). This means 1998 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Dodge Neon | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 112 HP |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1124 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2270 mm |
