2000 Dodge Neon vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2000 Dodge Neon. (132 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2000 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Dodge Neon weights approximately 21 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 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 2008 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2000 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2000 Dodge Neon has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 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 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2008 |
| 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 |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 50 L |
