Are SRT4 neons good?
The Dodge Neon SRT4 is a high-performance variant of the Dodge Neon compact car that was produced from 2003 to 2005. While the standard Neon was a practical and affordable commuter car, the SRT4 version was designed to offer a more exciting driving experience for enthusiasts. In this article, we'll take a closer look at whether the SRT4 Neons are considered good performance cars.
Powerful Turbocharged Engine
The key feature that sets the SRT4 apart from the standard Neon is its turbocharged 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine. This engine produced 215 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque, which was a significant upgrade over the 150 horsepower of the base Neon. The SRT4's engine was mated to a Getrag five-speed manual transmission, allowing drivers to fully harness the power.
Impressive Performance
With its potent turbocharged engine and manual transmission, the SRT4 Neon was able to deliver impressive performance for its time. The car could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.9 seconds, which was very quick for a compact car. The SRT4 also featured a sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and other performance upgrades that gave it sharp handling and responsive driving dynamics.
Affordable Tuning and Modification
One of the key advantages of the SRT4 Neon is its relatively affordable price point and the availability of aftermarket parts and modifications. Compared to more expensive performance cars, the SRT4 provided a platform that enthusiasts could easily tune and modify to extract even more power and performance. This made the SRT4 an attractive option for those looking to build a high-performance daily driver on a budget.
Reliability Concerns
While the SRT4 Neon offered impressive performance, it did have some reliability issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The turbocharged engine and other performance components were more complex and required more maintenance than the standard Neon. Some common problems included turbocharger failures, transmission issues, and electrical gremlins. Proper maintenance and care was essential to keeping an SRT4 Neon running reliably.
Conclusion
In summary, the Dodge Neon SRT4 was a capable and exciting performance car for its time, offering a compelling blend of power, handling, and affordability. While it had some reliability concerns, the SRT4 provided enthusiasts with a platform that could be easily tuned and modified to extract even more performance. For those looking for an affordable and fun-to-drive compact car, the SRT4 Neon remains an attractive option in the used car market.
