2003 Dodge Neon vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Dodge Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Dodge Neon would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Neon. (205 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 78 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 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Neon | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1347 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 61 L |
