With the hubbub surrounding imports, it's easy to overlook the fact that there are domestic compacts out there that can be transformed into formidable performance cars as well.
In our December 2000 issue, we showed a wide array of performance and styling upgrades available for Ford's new and impressive Focus. The Focus is a world-class small car, with performance, handling, and refinement that matches, if not exceeds, the standards set by cars like the Honda Civic. The Focus conclusively proved that worthy sport compacts need not necessarily come from Japan, and that Detroit could produce (albeit with the help of Ford's European subsidiary) a true contender in this arena.
While the Focus is getting plenty of attention these days, it must be noted that DaimlerChrysler also produces a compact car that has plenty of potential and good aftermarket support. The Dodge/Plymouth Neon represents strong automotive value and offers competitive specs and pricing. Out of the box, the Neon is not likely to raise the enthusiast's pulse, but with some careful tuning, it can be transformed into a unique and formidable performance machine. For the enthusiast looking to modify and personalize a car other than the ubiquitous Honda, a Neon could be just the ticket.
Some history of the Neon is in order. The Dodge and Plymouth Neon entered the compact scene for the 1994 model year, replacing the dull and lackluster Dodge Shadow and Plymouth Sundance. The Neon gave Chrysler its first truly competitive small car, and was greeted enthusiastically by the press and public alike for its spunky styling, good performance and excellent handling. The original Neon was a driver's car right out of the box. It offered a 2.0-liter, 16-valve four-cylinder engine with 132 hp as its base model, and a DOHC version with 150 hp was offered soon afterward as an option on the coupe. Suspension tuning was aggressive, especially for a mainstream domestic compact. This car had serious potential as a sport compact, and Chrysler knew it.
Soon after the Neon's introduction, Chrysler introduced the Neon ACR (American Club Racing), aimed at SCCA club racers. This car came from the factory with stiff springs, adjustable Koni shocks, adjustable front camber plates, and a recalibrated engine computer, among other things. It was an immediate hit among hardcore enthusiasts. Go to any local autocross, and you'll likely see scores of Neon ACRs effortlessly slaloming through the cones.
The second-generation Neon arrived in early 1999 as a 2000 model, and boasted increased refinement, more interior space, and somewhat muted styling. While perhaps lacking some of the spunky spirit of the original, the second-generation Neon kept its performance credentials intact. Mechanically, the new Neon wasn't unlike the original Neon, so it remained quick and fun to drive. Though it is still relatively new in the marketplace, several aftermarket companies have stepped up with performance and appearance accessories for the new car. And best of all, the ACR package is still available from the factory.
This domestic compact from DaimlerChrysler can be a viable alternative for enthusiasts looking to set themselves apart from the crowd. With Japanese imports dominating the sport compact scene, one can capitalize on the uniqueness of owning one of these domestic compacts.
Perhaps best of all, these cars are very competitively priced, meaning you'll likely have money left over for aftermarket performance and appearance enhancements. In the next few pages, we'll highlight many of the aftermarket performance and appearance upgrades available for these worthy and somewhat under-appreciated cars.
AppearanceUpgradesStyle is of paramount importance to virtually all enthusiasts. We want our cars to perform, but we also want our cars to look the part. Fortunately for Neon owners, quite a few aftermarket companies have stepped up with styling upgrades for these cars.
For the Neon, there are naturally more styling upgrades available for the first-generation model, since it has been around longer than the current 2000-and-up model. The first generation was widely praised for its cheeky styling when it was introduced, with its distinctive happy-face front end, cab-forward styling, and wheels-at-each-corner stance. It was a dramatic departure from the Shadow/Sundance it replaced, and was easily one of the most progressively styled compacts of its time. Its looks lent itself to more aggressive styling mods, pleasing those who thought the car looked too "cute" in stock form. The second-generation model was compatible to styling upgrades, too. Its styling is overall a bit more mature than the original, but it still retains that raked cab-forward stance that made the original stand out from more prosaic sedans.
Body kitsAndy's Autosport Kato kitWith applications for the '00-'01 Neon. For more info, call (800) 419-1152 or visit the Web site at www.andysautosport.com.
Kaminari USA full ground effect packageMade for the 2000-2001 Dodge Neon, this kit includes a full front fascia, rear fascia, and sideskirts. The front and rear fascias are available with or without the carbon fiber inserts. The wing comes with Carbon fiber blade; endcaps are also available. For more information, go to its Web site at www.kaminari.com or call (800) BUY-KITT.
Andy's Autosport Combat kitWith applications for the '95-'99 Neon. For more info, call (800) 419-1152 or visit the Web site at www.andysautosport.com.
Xenon ground effectsWith applications for the '95-'99 Neon. For more info, call (304) 788-5391 or find more info on the Web at www.howellautomotive.com.
EGR body accessoriesWith applications for the '00-'01 Neon. For more info, call (800) 757-7075 or visit them on the web at www.egrinc.com.
Erebuni Neon Ground Effect Kit Style 918 Wanna give your 2000 and up Neon an aggressive new visage? Try Erebuni's new urethane body kit for the second-generation Neon. The four-piece body kit includes a whole new front bumper cover, dramatically altering the Neon's stock appearance. The Style 918 retails for $850. Erebuni can be reached at (718) 387-0800 or at the company's Web site at www.erebuni.net.
HoodsAFXWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (304) 788-5391 or visit the Web at www.howellautomotive.com.
Fiber ImagesWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (661) 274-9500 or visit the Web at www.fiberimages.com.
WingsKaminariWith applications for the '00-'01 Neon. For more info, call (800) BUY-KITT or visit the Web at www.kaminari.com.
Misc. PartsRoll cagesCaptain Nemo'sWith applications for the '95-'99 Neon. For more info, call (954) 986-7966 or visit the Web at www.cnnpracing.com.
R.S. Akimoto/Monkey BarsWith applications for the '00-'01 Neon. For more info, call NOPI at (800) 277-6674 or check out the Web site at www.nopi.com.
Engine dressHose Techniques silicon hose kitWith applications for the '95-'99 Neon. For more info, call (888) 999-2817 or visit the Web at www.hosetechniques.com.
AFX chrome valve cover & radiator supports, polished oil cap and piston oil cap With applications for the '95-'99 Neon. For more info, call (304) 788-5391 or visit the Web at www.howellautomotive.com.
LightingAPC Altezza taillightsWith applications for the '95-'99 Neon. For more info, call (800) 594-4APC or visit the Web at www.4apc.net.
APC Altezza taillights, Gen 2With applications for the '95-'99 Neon. For more info, call (800) 594-4APC or visit the Web at www.4apc.net.
APC clear side markersWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (800) 594-4APC or visit the Web at www.4apc.net.
APC euro clear side markersWith applications for the '95-'99 Neon. For more info, call (800) 594-4APC or visit the Web at www.4apc.net.
APC clear third brake lightWith applications for the '95-'99 Neon. For more info, call (800) 594-4APC or visit the Web at www.4apc.net.
Interior AccessoriesAPC indiglo gauges With applications for the '95-'99 Neon. For more info, call (800) 594-4APC or visit the Web at www.4apc.net.
APC white-faced gaugesWith applications for the '95-'99 Neon. For more info, call (800) 594-4APC or visit the Web at www.4apc.net.
Dash Boards Plus carbon fiber dash kitWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (800) 900-3274 or visit the Web at www.dashboardsplus.com.
Dash Boards Plus aluminum dash kitWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (800) 900-3274 or visit the Web at www.dashboardsplus.com.MPX indiglo gauges With applications for the '00-'01 Neon. For more info, call(713) 270-8520 or visit the Web at www.modernperformance.com.
MPX indiglo gaugesWith applications for the '00-'01 Neon. For more info, call(713) 270-8520 or visit the Web at www.modernperformance.com.
Exterior AccessoriesAuto Ventshade rainguardsWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (304) 788-5391 or visit the Web at www.howellautomotive.com.
EGR window rainguards (carbon fiber)With applications for the '00-'01 Neon. For more info, call (800) 757-7075 or visit the Web at www.egrinc.com.
GTS headlight/taillight covers (smoke)With applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (877) 700-6674 or find info on the Web at www.nopi.com.
EGR style eyes headlight coversWith applications for the '00-'01 Neon. For more info, call (800) 757-7075 or visit the Web at www.egrinc.com.
Modern Image custom graphicsWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon coupe and sedan. For more info, call (714) 375-0591 or visit the Web at www.modernimage.net.
PowertrainUpgradesThe four-cylinder powerplant in the Dodge/Plymouth Neon is reasonably peppy from the factory, but of course, there is plenty room for improvement. Aftermarket support for these engines does exist, though not quite to the extent that Honda engines enjoy. Most upgrades available for these cars are relatively simple, such as intake systems, exhaust systems and headers. Still, worthwhile horsepower gains can be had even through these simple modifications. The Neon is available in two flavors. The first-generation Neon featured two different 2.0-liter, 16-valve engines. The base 132-hp engine featured a single-overhead camshaft, and the optional 150-hp engine featured twin cams. The second-generation Neon is also available in two guises, rated at 132 hp and 150 hp, just like the original. However, both of these engines in the new Neon are SOHC designs.
ExhaustsVibrant exhaustsWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (905) 564-8644 or visit the Web at www.vibrantperformance.com.
DynomaxWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (800) 594-9815 or visit the Web at www.dynomax.com.
Magnaflow PerformanceWith applications for the '00-'01 Neon. For more info, call (800) 959-9226 or visit the Web at www.magnaflow.com.
IntakesMoparWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, visit the Web at www.mopar.com.
Forced InductionBlue Ribbon TurboWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon, both SOHC and DOHC. For more info, call (631) 293-1810 or visit the Web at www.anyturbo.com.
Rage TurboWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (954) 986-7966 or find info on the Web at www.cnnpracing.com.
Cam gears and pulleysAFX With applications for the '95-'01 Neon, pulley only. For more info, call (304) 788-5391 or visit the Web at www.howellautomotive.com.
Plug wiresNology With applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (888) 542-3626 or find info on the Web at www.mmrusa.com.
Mopar With applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info visit the Web at www.mopar.com.
HeadersThrottle bodyRS MotorsportsMachines OEM throttle bodies for many cars, including the Neon, in order to increase airflow with a bigger bore. For more info, call (905) 671-9998 or visit the Web at www.rsmracing.com.
MPXWith applications for the '95-'99 Neon. For more info, call (713) 270-8520 or visit the Web at www.modernperformance.com.
Heads/Head PackagesValvesMopar valve springsWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, visit the web at www.mopar.com.
Fuel SystemsBlue Ribbon Fuel RailWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon, both SOHC and DOHC. For more info, call (631) 293-1810 or visit the Web at www.anyturbo.com.
ComputersAFXWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (304) 788-5391 or visit the Web at www.howellautomotive.com.
PistonsAFX With applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (304) 788-5391 or visit the Web at www.howellautomotive.com.
SuspensionUpgradesThe Neon, in particular, has always been a fine handling car, even in stock form. Boasting strut-type independent suspension at all four corners, both generations of Neon are quick and agile handlers. The ACR edition is particularly noteworthy, with its adjustable front camber plates, stiff springs, and adjustable Koni shocks. Judging by the number of Neons we see at local autocross events, it is apparent that enthusiasts have taken to the Neon and are exploiting its handling capabilities. Some judicious and well-planned modifications turn this car into a real track star - and plenty of uprated springs,shocks, and sway bars exist on the aftermarket to help you accomplish this.
Lowering springsSprint springsWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (909) 484-1799 or visit the Web at www.sprint spring.com.
Progress Competition Suspension SystemProgress also offers the Competition Suspension System for the Neon, offering far greater adjustability of ride height and handling. This comprehensive kit includes four threaded coil-over struts, springs, polyurethane bump stops, strut top bushings, and spring isolators. Ride height is easily adjusted from 1 to 3 inches lower than stock, via the threaded shock bodies. Contact the Progress Group at (714) 575-1193 or at www.progressauto.com for more info.
Strutsvibrant Strut/sway barsWith applications for the '95-'01 Neon. For more info, call (713) 270-8520 or visit the Web at www.modernperformance.com.
Freedom Design strut bar (front only)With applications for the '00-'01 Neon. For more info, visit the Web at www.freedomdesign.com.
BushingsProthane bushingsWith applications for the '95-'99 Neon. For more info, call (888) PROTHANE or visit the Web at www.prothane.com.
BrakesKVR rotorsWith applications for the 95-01 Neon. For more info call (800) 636-0854 or visit the Web at www.kvrperformance.com.
Light Wise,Dollar SmartHow to save hundreds of dollars when it comes time to replace those plastic headlight housings Headlights are one of several things on our cars that we pay little attention to. They are there in plain sight, but we don't really see them. At least not until the sun sets.
It's then that headlights become the most important part of our car because they dictate our speed more than our driving ability or the car's level of performance; when you can't see the road ahead, common sense makes one drive slower.
Yet a headlight can still be working and still pose a great safety risk. This happens when the headlights are dirty or have some other problem that cause their light output to be diminished. With many vehicles, the deterioration of the headlight housing itself reduces the light's effectiveness.
For example, if you own first-generation ('95-'98) Neon-or numerous other sport compact cars that have acrylic (plastic) headlight housings-take a close look at the headlights. What you'll probably see instead of the crystal clear lens is a fogged, yellowed housing that both looks and feels as if it had been sandblasted.
In worst-case situations, the actual light that reaches the road can be as little as a third of what it was when the headlight housings were new. That poses a great risk.
The only cure for such a problem is replacing the housings, and in the case of Neons, the plastic turn signal housings that sit inboard of the headlights. This is a job that one would think would be cheap. But don't be fooled. As we found out, it's at least a $600 repair bill at a dealer! A price that may be similar for other cars with integrated acrylic headlights.
The only saving grace to this dilemma is you can save at least $200 by doing the replacement yourself. All it takes is an hour of no-sweat labor, a Torx screwdiver, and a metric socket set with a swivel socket and long extension. Oh, and a few phone calls to a local discount auto parts stores to find the best prices on the housings and turn signals.
We realized the headlights on our Neon worked just as bad as they looked, and went to the local Dodge/Chrysler dealer for an estimate. The $625 out-the-door price quickly sent us out the door looking for alternatives.
We found several.On the parts side, we checked our town's three largest discount parts stores. Auto Zone's price for both headlight housings and turn signal indicator lamps came to $312. Keystone Automotive's prices tallied $356. Discount Auto Parts, despite their name, wanted $504. (All prices sans sales tax.) Dodge still gets Neon owners for the rubber seals around the headlights, at a cost of $25 per pair.
We also checked several repair shops to see what they charged for labor. Prices ranged from $42-$54 per hour. Doing it ourselves wouldn't cost more than a six pack.
Choice Made. After paying Auto Zone $337 for the parts, the Dodge dealer $25 for "available factory only" rubber seals that go around the headlights, and a five-spot for beverages, we set to work. The end result: We saved $260, returned the headlight's performance back to new, and, to our surprise, made the car look much newer and better kept.
Neon RenewalIn 1995, the Dodge/Plymouth Neon made a huge splash with young buyers; it has continued to be a capable, inexpensive alternative for those in the sport compact market. Revamped in 2000 with new body and powertrain features, the second-generation Neon became an instant hit with many aftermarket companies. Chrysler/Daimler's product planners wanted to showcase the parts available for the Neon; NOPI stepped up to the plate.
Headed by James Roberts, the NOPI Neon project began in late 2000 with the idea that the car would not only echo the interests of many enthusiasts, it would also serve as a rolling technical workshop. Starting with the basics, Roberts added a set of 18-inch Enkei RP08s wrapped in 205/40-18 Yokohama Parada rubber. Intrax lowering springs were added to give the car better handling. (The installation of the springs took place in the Intrax booth at the 2000 NOPI Nationals so the consumer could get a first-hand look at the process.) It was then time to focus on the Neon's potential power.
Engineered Performance of Smyrna, Ga. was called upon to aid in the installation and testing of the Neon's powertrain. While in its hands, the Neon received Nology spark plugs and wires, an AEM cold air intake, a B&M short shifter, a Clutch Master stage 3 clutch, an Optima battery and a Borla exhaust. For the finishing touches of power, the Neon was handed to Venom Performance. Venom's computer-controlled nitrous kit gave the Neon menacing speed; installation of the jet-black nitrous bottle added to the car's style. Pleased with the Neon's performance, Roberts and the others at NOPI knew they needed to make the car look the part.
While the new body styling of the Neon was pleasing to the eye, the NOPI planning team wanted to give the car a more aggressive presence. The new Razzi ground effects package was chosen for the clean, eye-catching look. To accent the new ground effects, a Wings West touring wing was bolted to the deck lid. For better vision on the road, Roberts went with Catz Zeta Headlights and added Toucan Strobe lights for the show crowd. A real dose of flash and flare was added when the Sign Guy in Atlanta, Ga received the car. Silver, gold and white custom graphics gave the Neon its final touch for exterior appeal.
The interior wasn't ignored. Roberts had Katzkin Leather Interiors rewrap the entire car with a very clean gray-and-red leather combination. Adding to the race look of the car while also sweetening visual appeal, Roberts added a white RS Akimoto Monkey Bars roll cage. American Radio, a chain of custom stereo stores in Georgia, undertook the responsibility of the Neon project, with end result being a new stereo system: an Alpine CD head unit and a full line of Phoenix Gold audio equipment, including two 10-inch subwoofers, two sets of door speakers and two amps (ZX475 and ZX460). Phoenix Gold line drivers, power blocks and bass enhancers were also installed to strengthen an already powerful system.
You can expect to see the NOPI Neon at shows all over the country, including the NOPI Nationals, the International Auto Salon and for those in the industry, the SEMA show. For more information, go to www.nopi.com.
Web siteswww.neons.org (tech info)www.neonamerica.comwww.neoncanada.com