2003 Dodge Neon vs. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Dodge Neon is newer by 1 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 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 93 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Neon weights approximately 322 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 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, 2003 Dodge Neon (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Neon | 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1347 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 50 L |
