How much horsepower does a 1998 Dodge Neon ACR have?
The 1998 Dodge Neon ACR delivered roughly 150 horsepower from its 2.0-liter DOHC four, as measured by SAE net standards of the era.
Designed as Dodge’s club-racing-inspired street model, the ACR’s power figure sits at the heart of a broader performance package that included chassis tuning, braking upgrades, and weight reduction to maximize on-track capability while remaining street-legal.
Powertrain and performance
Key details about the engine and drive system provide context for how that horsepower translates to real-world performance.
- Engine: 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-4
- Horsepower: 150 hp (SAE net)
- Torque: approximately 125–130 lb-ft
- Transmission: 5-speed manual (standard on ACR)
- Drive: Front-wheel drive
The ACR's 150‑hp figure, while modest by modern standards, represented a significant boost over the base Neon in a lightweight, agile package designed for cornering and track use.
Historical context within the Neon lineup
ACR versus base models
In the late 1990s, the standard 2.0-liter Neon used a SOHC engine rated around 132 horsepower. The ACR variant used the more responsive DOHC 16-valve configuration to lift output to roughly 150 hp, concentrating power where it mattered for performance driving.
Summary
The 1998 Dodge Neon ACR delivered about 150 horsepower from a 2.0-liter DOHC engine, a number that underscored its role as Dodge’s performance-focused, street-legal racer among the first-generation Neon lineup. Packed with a stiffer suspension, upgraded brakes, and weight-saving measures, the ACR offered a balanced, engaging driving experience that emphasized handling as much as horsepower.
