2002 Dodge Neon vs. 1977 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Dodge Neon is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Dodge Neon (212 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 323. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Neon weights approximately 394 kg more than 1977 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 323 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 1977 Mazda 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Dodge Neon (304 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 323. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 323. 2002 Dodge Neon has automatic transmission and 1977 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1977 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Dodge Neon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Neon | 1977 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 812 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 40 L |
