2006 Chrysler Neon vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2006 Chrysler Neon is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda Roadster would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (148 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2006 Chrysler Neon. (131 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2006 Chrysler Neon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler Neon weights approximately 540 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Because 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler 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, 2006 Chrysler Neon (178 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (167 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler Neon | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Neon | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1838 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 48 L |
