Are Dodge Neon SRT 4 rare?
The Dodge Neon SRT-4 is generally considered a rare vehicle, produced in a brief window from 2003 through 2005 with only a limited number of units. While exact totals vary by source, most estimates place production in the low tens of thousands worldwide, making it much rarer than the standard Neon but not a high-end collector car. Its scarcity, combined with notable performance for its era, keeps it in the spotlight for enthusiasts and collectors.
Production history and rarity
To understand why the SRT-4 is viewed as scarce, it helps to review its production footprint, model years, and regional availability. The following points summarize the key factors driving its rarity.
- Model years and scope: Sold primarily in North America, the SRT-4 was produced for a short period, roughly 2003–2005 (late 2002 through 2005 model years in some markets).
- Total units: Estimates commonly place total production in the low to mid tens of thousands, with figures often cited in the range of about 15,000–25,000 units depending on how totals are counted (year-by-year, coupe vs. sedan, and regional variants).
- Transmission and drivetrain: All SRT-4 models were equipped with a manual transmission, reflecting its enthusiast-oriented tuning and limiting the number of units sold to buyers seeking a performance stick.
- Regional focus: The car was primarily distributed in North America, with limited or no official wide-scale rollout in most European or other markets, reinforcing its rarity outside its home region.
Taken together, the narrow production window, North American focus, and the absence of an automatic option contribute to the SRT-4’s relative scarcity on today’s roads and at car shows.
Current market and desirability
As with many niche performance cars from the 2000s, asking prices and sale trends for the Neon SRT-4 reflect condition, mileage, and originality. The following points provide a snapshot of the market and what tends to influence value.
- Typical price range: Clean, stock examples with average mileage commonly trade in the moderate five-figure to low-six-figure range for today’s market, with widely varying prices based on condition and provenance. Well-preserved, low-mileage cars can command higher prices, while high-mileage or heavily modified examples generally sell for less.
- What fuels value: Originality, maintenance history, documented service records, rust-free chassis, and the presence of stock parts (especially the engine, turbo components, intercooler, and suspension) tend to boost value.
- What can depress value: Heavily modified engines, poor service history, significant rust, accident history, and non-original parts can reduce desirability and price.
Market data for classic performance cars evolves with listings, auctions, and private sales. Prospective buyers or sellers should consult current listings on reputable sites and consider an inspection from a mechanic familiar with Mopar turbocharged engines to establish a fair value.
Maintenance, ownership considerations, and parts
Owning a Dodge Neon SRT-4 comes with unique maintenance considerations due to its turbocharged setup and age. The following guidance highlights common concerns and practical tips for owners and potential buyers.
- Maintenance cadence: Regular, high-quality oil changes and attentive cooling system maintenance are important for turbocharged engines. Early turbo seals and intercooler reliability tend to influence long-term performance.
- Parts availability: While some parts are still produced through Mopar and aftermarket channels, certain components are increasingly sourced from legacy stock or compatible upgrades. Enthusiast networks and specialty shops can help locate stock or upgraded parts.
- Common service items: Fuel system cleanliness, turbo-related components, ignition systems, and suspension wear are among the areas that typically receive attention on higher-mileage examples.
- Reliability and daily use: The SRT-4 was designed for performance; reliability can vary by maintenance history. Thoughtful care, especially of the turbocharged system, helps preserve drivability and fun factor.
For buyers, a pre-purchase inspection focusing on the turbo system, compression, cooling, and rust checks is highly advised. For existing owners, staying current on service intervals and using qualified techs familiar with Mopar performance cars can pay dividends in long-term reliability.
Notable variants and cultural footprint
Limited editions and dealer specials
While the core Neon SRT-4 line remained relatively straightforward, a handful of dealer-installed packages or regional variations appeared in limited numbers. These variants can be rarer than standard cars and may carry unique VINs or markings, increasing their appeal to collectors who chase provenance.
Beyond these, the SRT-4’s legacy in automotive media, tuner culture, and drag racing circles has helped sustain interest. Its combination of practicality, turbocharged power, and a manual transmission keeps it a favorite among enthusiasts who want a high-performance car with everyday usability.
Summary
The Dodge Neon SRT-4 is regarded as a relatively rare performance model from the early 2000s, with production spanning about three model years and a total count commonly cited in the low tens of thousands. Its scarcity, coupled with its enthusiasts’ appeal and practical turbocharged performance, makes it a sought-after item for collectors and drivers who appreciate Mopar tuning. As with any classic, current values vary widely based on condition, originality, mileage, and maintenance history, so prospective buyers should conduct thorough due diligence and seek expert inspections. For those who own or are considering one, the SRT-4 offers a distinctive blend of performance and practicality that remains memorable decades after its introduction.
Is the Neon SRT-4 a future classic?
Most older cars with a unique side to them can become desirable after some time has passed, but the Neon SRT-4 also has a bit more going for it that could help its future classic status. The Neon SRT-4 was only produced for three years, as we mentioned previously.
How much is a Dodge Neon SRT-4 worth?
The price for a used Dodge Neon SRT-4 varies, but typically ranges from approximately $7,000 to $12,000. Well-maintained or rare examples, such as certain Commemorative Editions, can sell for significantly more, with some auctions reaching prices over $18,000. The original MSRP when new was $21,295.
- Average Price: Most used SRT-4 models fall within the $7,000 to $12,000 range, depending on factors like mileage, condition, and modifications.
- High-End Examples: Enthusiast-focused and low-mileage versions can be more expensive. For example, a 2005 Commemorative Edition sold for $36,000 at auction, and a clean, low-mileage 2004 sold for $18,250.
- Original Price: The original starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) was around $21,295.
How rare is a SRT-4 neon?
Initially, Dodge expected to sell a conservative number of only 2,500 units per year. However, during the three year production run (2003 through 2005), more than 25,000 Neon SRT-4s were produced. With the discontinuation of the PL platform after model year 2005, the SRT-4 ceased production.
How many SRT-4 neons were made?
More than 25,000 Dodge Neon SRT-4s were made between the 2003 and 2005 model years. This figure includes specific yearly production numbers: 3,199 in 2003, 9,206 in 2004, and 8,418 in 2005.
- Total production: Over 25,000 vehicles.
- 2003: 3,199
- 2004: 9,206
- 2005: 8,418
