2000 Dodge Neon vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Dodge Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Dodge Neon would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Dodge Neon (132 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Dodge Neon weights approximately 136 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2000 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, 2000 Dodge Neon (177 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2000 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2000 Dodge Neon has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Dodge Neon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Dodge Neon | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1161 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 50 L |
