2002 Dodge Neon vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Dodge Neon is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 64 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 109 kg more than 2002 Dodge Neon.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (205 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 2002 Dodge Neon has automatic transmission and 1997 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1997 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
Model | Neon | Golf |
Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 212 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 304 Nm | 205 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 90.2 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1315 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |