2003 Dodge Neon vs. 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500
To start off, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 6 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 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 295 more horse power than 2003 Dodge Neon. (205 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 2003 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Dodge Neon weights approximately 375 kg more than 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500. 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, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 353 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Dodge Neon. (298 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Dodge Neon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Dodge Neon | 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Neon | Shelby GT 500 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 5409 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 651 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1347 kg | 972 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 61 L |
