2002 Dodge Neon vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Dodge Neon is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 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) has 138 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Dodge Neon weights approximately 221 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 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 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Neon | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 50 L |
