2002 Dodge Neon vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Dodge Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Dodge Neon 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 22 more horse power than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (190 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 214 kg more than 2002 Dodge Neon.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8. 2002 Dodge Neon has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 61 L |
