2001 Chrysler Neon vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2001 Chrysler Neon. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Chrysler Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 36 kg more than 2001 Chrysler Neon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chrysler Neon. (154 Nm @ 4950 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chrysler Neon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler Neon | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 48 L |
