2003 Dodge Neon vs. 1998 Ford Focus
To start off, 2003 Dodge Neon is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Neon (205 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Neon weights approximately 273 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Dodge Neon (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Neon | 1998 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Neon | Focus |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1347 kg | 1074 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 55 L |
