For enthusiasts who remember when automakers actually made affordable performance cars, a 2005 Dodge Neon SRT-4 with the ACR package is a time capsule on wheels. This particular example, currently up for auction on Bring a Trailer, embodies a forgotten era when turbocharged econoboxes packed a punch without breaking the bank.
The Neon SRT-4: An Economical Sleeper
The early 2000s SRT-4 was a revelation: a front-wheel-drive compact with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine that offered performance many V-8s couldn’t match. The ACR trim took it further, adding track-focused upgrades like a limited-slip differential, stiffened suspension, and beefier brakes. This wasn’t just a fast car; it was a surprisingly capable track weapon.
Why This Matters Now
Today, the landscape has changed drastically. A comparable performance car like a Honda Civic Si or Hyundai Elantra N now costs upwards of $30,000, making the SRT-4 a relic of a bygone era. The Neon SRT-4, when new, could be had for far less while delivering comparable thrills. This is why these cars are now sought-after: they represent a value proposition that no longer exists.
The Auction Car: A Low-Mileage Survivor
This 2005 model stands out because of its remarkably low 44,000 miles and single-owner history. While many SRT-4s were driven hard and put away wet, this one appears to have been preserved rather than punished. The engine has been slightly tuned for more boost, but remains mechanically stock.
The ACR Package Explained
The ACR package wasn’t just about a slightly more powerful engine. It included:
- Adjustable caster bars: Allowing precise alignment tuning for track performance.
- Upgraded shock tower supports: Reinforcing the chassis for better handling.
- Aggressively bolstered seats: Keeping the driver planted during hard cornering.
- BBS wheels with Michelin tires: Providing optimal grip.
Chrysler produced around 25,000 SRT-4s, but the ACR variants were even rarer, making this a unique find.
The Auction Details
The auction for this well-preserved Neon SRT-4 ACR ends on February 3. It’s a chance to own a piece of automotive history—a reminder of a time when manufacturers weren’t afraid to make fast, affordable cars. This isn’t just a purchase; it’s a statement about what performance used to be.
