2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Dodge Neon
To start off, 2004 Dodge Neon is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Neon (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Dodge Neon (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2004 Dodge Neon has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Dodge Neon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Dodge Neon | |
Make | Mazda | Dodge |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Neon |
Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 152 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4370 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2650 mm |