2004 Dodge Neon vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Dodge Neon is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Neon. (132 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 99 kg more than 2004 Dodge Neon. 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Neon. (176 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Neon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Neon | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Neon | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1171 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 55 L |
