2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Plymouth Neon
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Plymouth Neon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Plymouth Neon would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Plymouth Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1997 Plymouth Neon. (131 HP @ 5850 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Plymouth Neon.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Plymouth 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 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Plymouth Neon. (174 Nm @ 4950 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Plymouth Neon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Plymouth Neon | |
| Make | Mazda | Plymouth |
| Model | RX-8 | Neon |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5850 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 79 L |
