The Chrysler, Plymouth, and Dodge Neon |
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This section has information on both Chrysler Neon (Plymouth and Dodge Neon) generations.
Both Neon generations (1995-2005)
The Neon has racked up a formidable racing record.
Many Neon owners are fiercely loyal - see some testimonials.
We now have a pictorial showing a 1995 Neon being assembled and an article on how the very process of the Neon's design and manufacturing was groundbreaking.
Jim Grimmett has provided a detailed step-by-step clutch replacement guide, with photos. We also have general details on the manual transmission used in most Neons, and a radiator hose and radiator replacement page.
There is much more information in our dedicated first and second generation Neon pages. See below.
The first generation
When it first arrived on the scene, the Neon was cute, scrappy, and desirable enough to command a premium over the list price for months. It boasted a standard engine with 132 horsepower - more than any other car near its price, and at least 30 horsepower more than most in its class - and matching torque, as well as a large interior, good handling, and a long list of standard features.
For first-generation (1995-99) Dodge Neon, Plymouth Neon, and Chrysler Neon information, click here.
The second generation
The second generation Neon brought refinement, more room, and an end to some troubles, but no substantial improvements to the powertrain, leaving it an average sedan without the looks or all of the fun spirit of its predecessor - except in SRT form, where it was a blast and a half.
For second-generation (2000-05) Chrysler, Dodge, and Plymouth Neon information, click here.
For Neon SRT-4 information, click here.
For details on the record-setting Hemi-powered NHRA Pro Stock Neon R/T, click here.
For details on the Neon SST (style, sound, and technology) package, click here.
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The end of the Chrysler - Plymouth - Dodge Neon
The Neon ceased production on September 23, 2005, after a two-generation, nearly-thirteen-year run. It leaves behind awards, trophies, and squandered opportunities.
BAPworker said: “The last Neon was an SXT. There are a couple hundred signatures on the floor, under the carpet. The car before it was an SRT-4, white as all Neons and SRTs were the last two days of production. Look for an alternative wheel on last day production SRTs as there were not enough wheels and the vendor may not have [had] the capability to make more.” (We don’t know whether the last Neon was kept or sold — and if sold, whether it was sold to someone in particular or just released with the rest.)
Other sections
For our Neon message board / forum, click here.
For PT Cruiser information, click here.
For the next-generation small car that was never made, click here.
For the next Chrysler small car, click here.
Neon sales were down to 113,000 units last year. That number hasn't changed much over the past few years, but there used to be a Plymouth Neon, too, which pushed total Neon sales to around 200,000 a year. Chrysler built its last Plymouth in July 2001, and the Dodge Neon never picked up the slack.
— Jerry Flint
