2001 Chrysler Neon vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Chrysler Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Chrysler Neon would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Chrysler Neon (253 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler Neon should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler Neon weights approximately 514 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Chrysler Neon (332 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2001 Chrysler Neon has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Chrysler Neon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler Neon | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1609 kg | 1095 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
