2004 Dodge Neon vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2004 Dodge Neon is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Neon. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Neon.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 1997 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 567 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Neon. (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Neon. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 2004 Dodge Neon has manual transmission. 2004 Dodge Neon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen W12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Neon | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Neon | W12 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2550 mm |
