Im a Dakota guy but right now we need a small car for Mrs.N. Question, is 2nd Gen Neon larger than 1st? Nrs.N has a cousin that had 1st Gen and now has a 2nd, gen and she thinks the 2nd Gen. is physically smaller, I say its an optical illusion.

 

Well, the seats from the 1st and 2nd gen models are completely interchangable, and the core motor used is the same. So having said that, I think that while it is possible that there are some minor differences due to changes in trim and accessories, the cars are almost identical in size (basic shape, width, height, weight), so I agree, it is just an illusion.