2003 Dodge Neon vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2003 Dodge Neon is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen Beetle 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 25 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. (180 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Neon weights approximately 34 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. 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 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Neon | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Neon | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1347 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 55 L |
