Dodge Neon
|
|---|
|
| Topic Navigation |
|---|
|
Wikipedia: Chrysler Neon
Page Sections History Images Documents Article Index |
History
The following section is an excerpt from Wikipedia's Chrysler Neon page on 6 June 2017, text available via the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.
The Plymouth/Dodge/Chrysler Neon is a front-engine, front-wheel drive Sport compact car introduced in January 1994 for model year 1995 by Chrysler's Dodge and Plymouth divisions in two-door and four-door bodystyles over two generations.
Marketed in Europe, Mexico, Canada, Japan, Egypt, Australia and South America as a Chrysler, the Neon was offered in multiple versions and configurations over its production life, which ended with model year 2005.
The Neon nameplate was subsequently resurrected in 2016 as a rebadged variant of Fiat Tipo for the Mexican market.
1991 concept car
The Neon nameplate first appeared as a concept car in 1991 under the Dodge brand. Although radically styled and clearly not production-ready, the Neon concept somewhat resembled the production vehicle and featured sliding suicide doors.
The Neon concept was designed by Chrysler designers who had joined the company from Chrysler's buyout of American Motors in 1987.
First generation (1994–1999)
The first generation Neon was introduced in January 1994 and manufactured until August 1999. It was available as a four-door notchback sedan and a two-door notchback coupe. Available engines were SOHC and DOHC versions of Chrysler's 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine producing 131 hp (98 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb·ft (174 N·m) at 5,000 rpm or 150 hp (110 kW) at 6,500 rpm and 133 lb·ft (180 N·m) at 5,600 rpm, respectively; transaxle options were a 3-speed Torqueflite automatic or a five-speed manual.
The car was badged and sold as both a Dodge and a Plymouth in the United States and Canada; in Mexico, Europe, Australia and other export markets it was sold as the Chrysler Neon. At the Neon's release, then president of Chrysler Corporation Bob Lutz said, "There's an old saying in Detroit: 'Good, fast, or cheap. Pick any two.' We refuse to accept that." The Japanese press touted the Neon as the "Japanese car killer", due to a spiralling Yen and the lower production cost of the Neon. The Neon received praise for its appearance, price, and power when compared to competing cars such as the Honda Civic DX at 102 hp (76 kW), the Civic EX at 127 hp (95 kW), the Nissan Sentra at 115 hp (86 kW), the Ford Escort ZX2 at 130 hp (97 kW), the Toyota Corolla at 115 hp (86 kW), the Saturn S-Series at 100 hp (75 kW) for SOHC variants and 124 hp (92 kW) for DOHC variants, and the Chevrolet Cavalier Base and LS models at 120 hp (89 kW), among others. Car and Driver tested the DOHC 5-speed equipped Neon R/T and reported that it could run 0-60 in 7.6 seconds and 15.9 seconds in the quarter mile. First-generation Neons were competitive in SCCA Solo autocross and showroom-stock road racing.
Second generation (1999–2005)
Sales of the second generation model started with model year 2000 and production ended with the 2005 model year. The second generation Neon was only available as a four-door sedan. In some global sales regions, including the U.S., the sole engine was the 2.0 L SOHC engine, the power output remaining at 132 hp (98 kW). An optional Magnum engine configuration (with an active intake manifold) that produced 150 hp (110 kW) was available. Both engines had a redline of 6762 rpm.
The second generation was more refined than the first generation car. It was advertised that the second generation Neon had over 1,000 refinements from the original generation. The first generation's frameless windows were replaced with a full-framed door. Other NVH refinements were implemented. The new interior and greater size increased weight. The DOHC engine (Chrysler code name ECC) was no longer available.
In 2000, the R/T trim returned after a one-year hiatus. The R/T consisted of a new 150 hp (110 kW) SOHC Magnum 2.0 L Engine, 16 in (41 cm) wheels, spoiler, dual chrome exhaust tips, quicker steering box and stiffer springs. The 2001 and 2002 R/Ts had a flat, 'hammerhead' spoiler. From 2000-2003, the R/T was sold as a Chrysler in the United Kingdom. The Neon was offered with a sport package for the 2001 model year only commemorating Dodge's return to the NASCAR scene. It consisted of an R/T wing, R/T 16 in (41 cm) wheels, R/T springs, Goodyear NASCAR raised yellow-lettering tires, 'Dodge Motorsports' side decals, white instrument cluster and R/T steering box. It was an R/T visually except for the lack of dual exhaust, R/T lower mouldings, fog lamps and R/T exclusive front bumper. The Sport only came equipped with the base model's 132 hp (98 kW) engine and was available with an automatic transmission (unlike the manual-only R/T model). 2001 was the last year for the Plymouth Neon, and the Plymouth brand as well. The last Plymouth Neon, which was also the last Plymouth ever produced (a silver four-door sedan), rolled off the assembly line on June 28, 2001.
The former Dodge and Plymouth Neon were briefly sold under the Chrysler name in Canada from 1999–2002, until being renamed as Dodge SX 2.0 for 2003. As before, in Europe, Australia, Mexico, Asia and South America, it continued to be sold as a Chrysler, as Dodge and Plymouth passenger cars were not marketed outside the U.S. and Canada at the time. Besides the 2.0 L engine, it used the same Tritec 1.6 L unit found in the MINI prior to 2007. The 1.6 L unit is a variation of the 2.0 L SOHC engine designed by Chrysler and built by Tritec.
Originally, the second generation Neon featured a five-speed manual transmission using the former ACR gear ratios to improve acceleration. However, this hurt gas mileage and made the car noisier on the highway, and eventually the original gear ratios were restored. A four-speed automatic (41TE) was offered in the Neon for the 2002-05 model years, replacing the earlier 3-speed 31TH.
The Neon's name was changed to SX 2.0 in Canada in 2002. In Australia and Canada, the Chrysler Neon was discontinued in 2002. In 2002, the front clip was changed slightly to match the R/T and ACR front clip with the exception of missing a lower lip. This was done by making the grille smaller.
The Neon was facelifted once again for 2003 with large "crosseyed" headlights and crosshair grille to make it look more like a Dodge Caravan and Dodge Stratus.
 |
Public domain clip art image from WP Clipart
View Plymouth/Dodge Neon Clipart - 31KB |
 |
Public domain clip art image from WP Clipart
View Plymouth/Dodge Neon Clipart - 31KB |
 |
Modified 2001 R/T Photo ©2011 Bill Crittenden 2011 Mopars at the Park (June 26, 2011) View photo of Modified 2001 Dodge Neon R/T - 4,072KB |
 |
Modified 2001 R/T Photo ©2011 Bill Crittenden 2011 Mopars at the Park (June 26, 2011) View photo of Modified 2001 Dodge Neon R/T - 4,668KB |
 |
Modified 2001 R/T Photo ©2011 Bill Crittenden 2011 Mopars at the Park (June 26, 2011) View photo of Modified 2001 Dodge Neon R/T - 3,187KB |
 |
Custom 2004 Photo ©2017 Bill Crittenden Green Street Cruise Night: 5 June 2017 View photo of Custom 2004 Dodge Neon - 3.2MB |
 |
Custom 2004 Photo ©2017 Bill Crittenden Green Street Cruise Night: 5 June 2017 View photo of Custom 2004 Dodge Neon - 2.9MB |
 |
Custom 2004 Photo ©2017 Bill Crittenden Green Street Cruise Night: 5 June 2017 View photo of Custom 2004 Dodge Neon - 3.3MB |
| Date | Document Name & Details | Documents |
|---|---|---|
| February 1997 | On-Site Alleged Inadvertent Air Bag Deployment Investigation Vehicle - 1995 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration |  PDF - 858KB - 10 pages |
| July 1997 | On-Site Air Bag Investigation Vehicle - 1995 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 1,392KB - 22 pages |
| December 1997 | On-Site Child Air Bag-Related Fatality Investigation Vehicle - 1995 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 857KB - 25 pages |
| May 1999 | Veridian Remote Alleged Inadvertent Deployment Investigation Vehicle: 1995 Plymouth Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 207KB - 9 pages |
| April 2001 | On-Site Child Air Bag-Related Fatality Investigation Vehicle - 1995 Plymouth Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 744KB - 24 pages |
| May 2001 | On-Site Air Bag Investigation Vehicle - 1995 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 1,345KB - 21 pages |
| May 2010 | On-Site Child Restraint System Investigation Vehicle - 1995 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 2,065KB - 17 pages |
| classified date 1995 | In-Depth Accident Investigation 1995 Plymouth Neon 4-door National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 3.3MB - 36 pages |
| classified date 1995 | Remote Accident Investigation 1995 Plymouth Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 26.9MB - 64 pages |
| classified date 1994 | On-Site Air Bag Fire Investigation 1995 Plymouth Neon, 4-door sedan National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 41.6MB - 241 pages |
| classified date 1996 | Remote Air Bag Report 1996 Plymouth Neon, 4-door sedan National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 123MB - 254 pages |
| November 1997 | Calspan Front Right Air Bag Deployment/Child Fatality Investigation Subject Vehicle - 1996 Plymouth Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 273KB - 17 pages |
| September 1997 | On-Site Air Bag Investigation Vehicle - 1997 Dodge Neon LE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 972KB - 25 pages |
| October 2000 | On-Site Child Air Bag-Related Fatality Investigation Vehicle - 1997 Plymouth Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 1,687KB - 22 pages |
| November 1997 | Depowered Air Bag Report Vehicle - 1998 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 531KB - 10 pages |
| May 1998 | Remote Air Bag Deployment Report Vehicle - 1998 Plymouth Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 351KB - 11 pages |
| June 1998 | Redesigned Air Bag Deployment 1998 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 391KB - 23 pages |
| June 1998 | Remote Air Bag Deployment Report Vehicle - 1998 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 420KB - 9 pages |
| July 1998 | On-Site Redesigned Air Bag Child Fatality Investigation Vehicle: 1998 Plymouth Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 436KB - 13 pages |
| July 1998 | SCI/NASS Combination Case Report Vehicle - 1998 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 474KB - 11 pages |
| August 1998 | Remote, Redesigned Air Bag Special Study 1998 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 192KB - 7 pages |
| October 1998 | Redesigned Air Bag Special Study (RABSS) SCI Technical Summary Report RABSS Vehicle - 1998 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 114KB - 9 pages |
| October 1998 | Remote Redesigned Air Bag Deployment Investigation SCI Technical Summary Report RABSS Vehicle - 1998 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 162KB - 10 pages |
| November 1998 | Remote, Redesigned Air Bag Special Study 1998 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 252KB - 7 pages |
| April 1999 | Remote, Redesigned Air Bag Special Study 1998 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 293KB - 8 pages |
| July 1999 | Remote, Redesigned Air Bag Special Study 1998 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 367KB - 10 pages |
| September 1999 | Remote, Redesigned Air Bag Special Study 1998 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 420KB - 9 pages |
| classified date 2000 | Special Crash Investigation Report Case Vehicle: 1998 Dodge Neon, 4-door sedan National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 43.2MB - 108 pages |
| classified date 2000 | Special Crash Investigation Report Case Vehicle: 1998 Plymouth Neon, 4-door sedan National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 62.2MB - 117 pages |
| August 2003 | On-Site Passenger Air Bag Related Fatality Investigation Subject Vehicle - 1998 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 1,061KB - 19 pages |
| July 2007 | ODI Tire Failure Investigation / Rollover 1998 Plymouth Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 921KB - 14 pages |
| November 1998 | Remote, Redesigned Air Bag Special Study 1999 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 447KB - 9 pages |
| June 2001 | Remote Child Air Bag-Related Fatality Investigation Vehicle - 1999 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 3,990KB - 13 pages |
| December 2007 | On-Site Child Safety Seat Investigation Vehicle - 2000 Plymouth Neon LX National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 800KB - 16 pages |
| December 2005 | On-Site Child Safety Seat Fatality Investigation Vehicle - 2002 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 708KB - 20 pages |
| April 2008 | Remote SCI/NASS Combination Side Air Bag Investigation 2002 Dodge Neon National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 1,566KB - 14 pages |
| 25 September 2003 | Safety Compliance Testing for FMVSS No. 110(Indicant): Tire Selection and Rims 2003 Dodge Neon Passenger Car National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | PDF - 2.1MB - 26 pages |
| 8 April 2008 | Federal-Mogul Corporation: Part 573.6 Notitication From: Glen Parker, Federal Mogul Corporation To: Recall Management Division, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA Recall 08E033000 | PDF - 323KB - 3 pages |
| 8 April 2008 | NHTSA Recall 08E033000 Carquest K7147, Carquest K7329, MasterPro K8683, Moog K7147, Moog K7329, One Source K8683, Parts Depot K8683, Parts Master K8683, Treadsaver K8683, TRW 104353, 1984 Chrysler E Class, 1984-1986 Chrysler Laser, 1984-1990 Chrysler LeBaron, 1984-1988 Chrysler New Yorker, 2001-2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 1989-1990 Chrysler TC, 1990 Chrysler Town and Country, 1984-1988 Dodge 600, 1984-1989 Dodge Aries, 1984-1990 Dodge Caravan, 1984-1987 Dodge Charger, 1984-1990 Dodge Daytona, 1988-1990 Dodge Grand Caravan, 1985-1989 Dodge Lancer, 1984-1988 Dodge Mini Ram Van, 2000-2005 Dodge Neon, 1984-1990 Dodge Omni, 1984 Dodge Rampage, 1987-1990 Dodge Shadow, 1989-1990 Dodge Spirit, 1995-2000 Ford Contour, 1999-2002 Mercury Cougar, 1995-2000 Mercury Mystique, 1989-1990 Plymouth Acclaim, 1985-1988 Plymouth Caravelle, 1988-1990 Plymouth Grand Voyager, 1984-1990 Plymouth Horizon, 2000-2001 Plymouth Neon, 1984-1989 Plymouth Reliant, 1987-1990 Plymouth Sundance, 1985 Plymouth Turismo, 1984-1990 Plymouth Voyager SuspensionNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration | Recall Page - 1 page |
| 24 April 2008 | Ball Joint Recall Attachment A Ball Joint Affected Date Codes and Applications Federal Mogul NHTSA Recall 08E033000 | PDF - 57KB - 1 page |
| 2 May 2008 | Campaign #08E-033 From: Joe Stephan, Federal-Mogul Corporation To: Distributors NHTSA Recall 08E033000 | PDF - 70KB - 2 pages |
| 5 May 2008 | Aftermarket Ball Joint Assemblies From: George H. Person, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration To: Glen Parker, Federal Mogul Corporation NHTSA Recall 08E033000 | PDF - 121KB - 3 pages |
| 21 July 2008 | Equipment Safety Recall Quarterly Report Information Federal Mogul Corporation NHTSA Recall 08E033000 | PDF - 51KB - 1 page |
| October 2008 | Equipment Safety Recall Quarterly Report Information Federal Mogul Corporation NHTSA Recall 08E033000 | PDF - 14KB - 1 page |
| January 2009 | Equipment Safety Recall Quarterly Report Information Federal Mogul Corporation NHTSA Recall 08E033000 | PDF - 28KB - 1 page |
| 4 February 2009 | From: George H. Person, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration To: Glen Parker, Federal Mogul Corporation NHTSA Recall 08E033000 | PDF - 43KB - 1 page |
| April 2009 | Equipment Safety Recall Quarterly Report Information Federal Mogul Corporation NHTSA Recall 08E033000 | PDF - 25KB - 1 page |
| July 2009 | Equipment Safety Recall Quarterly Report Information Federal Mogul Corporation NHTSA Recall 08E033000 | PDF - 36KB - 1 page |
| October 2009 | Equipment Safety Recall Quarterly Report Information Federal Mogul Corporation NHTSA Recall 08E033000 | PDF - 43KB - 1 page |
| Date | Article | Author/Source |
|---|---|---|
| 21 February 2003 | DaimlerChrysler contract awarded to Preface Media to design and develop new 2003 SRT-4 Turbocharged events site | Preface Media Inc. |
| 22 January 2008 | Dodge Neon Nerf Bars: Convenience with the Look | Anthony Fontanelle |
| 8 April 2009 | Dodge Neon Accessories For Outstanding Performance | Anirban Bhattacharya |
