2003 Dodge Neon vs. 1971 Oldsmobile 442

To start off, 2003 Dodge Neon is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Oldsmobile 442. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Oldsmobile 442 would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Oldsmobile 442 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Oldsmobile 442 (260 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Neon. (205 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Oldsmobile 442 should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Oldsmobile 442 weights approximately 383 kg more than 2003 Dodge Neon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1971 Oldsmobile 442 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 1971 Oldsmobile 442. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1971 Oldsmobile 442 (502 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Neon. (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1971 Oldsmobile 442 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Neon. 1971 Oldsmobile 442 has automatic transmission and 2003 Dodge Neon has manual transmission. 2003 Dodge Neon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Oldsmobile 442 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Dodge Neon 1971 Oldsmobile 442
Make Dodge Oldsmobile
Model Neon 442
Year Released 2003 1971
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2429 cc 7467 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 205 HP 260 HP
Engine RPM 5400 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 298 Nm 502 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 3200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87.5 mm 104.9 mm
Engine Stroke Size 101.4 mm 108 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.1:1 8.5:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1347 kg 1730 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 5180 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1960 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2850 mm