The lighter neon will use its hp advantage. A 98 or 99 dohc 5 speed ran 15.9-16.2 while the best new jetta TDI is similar but more 16.1-16.3.
I have gotten as high as 45 highway over a long interstate run with my 98 neon.
213 pounds more but an extra gear and a 106 ft/lbs of torque. I've owned a neon and this TDI. The TDI is twice the car. The diesel and turbo allows the power level to be turned up drasticly and innexpensively with no sacrifice to milage or reliability. A pipe, tune and EGR delete pushed 350+ lf'lbs.
What will 1800 parts and labor get you on a Neon.
Answer = a neon...
I've been sold on diesel power and it's tough to even compare the 2 cars. engines aside they aren't the same caliber vehicle.
