2003 Chrysler Neon vs. 1996 Volkswagen Fusca
To start off, 2003 Chrysler Neon is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Fusca would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler Neon (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. (52 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler Neon should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler Neon weights approximately 320 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Volkswagen Fusca 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 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler 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, 2003 Chrysler Neon (154 Nm @ 4950 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Fusca. (105 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Fusca.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler Neon | 1996 Volkswagen Fusca | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | Neon | Fusca |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4950 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
