2004 Dodge Neon vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Dodge Neon is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Neon (132 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Neon weights approximately 55 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2004 Dodge Neon (176 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Neon | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1171 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 50 L |
