Introduced by the DaimlerChrysler Street and Racing Technology group in 2003, the Dodge SRT-4 is a turbocharged compact car. ACR and Commemorative edition models were released as well, but SRT-4 was developed for the once again growing racing and muscle car crowd. While the SRT-4 is often called a "dressed up Neon" this simply is not true. What is true is that the SRT-4 is based on the Neon, but it differs in many ways.
What is most noticeable when one looks at the SRT-4 is the front clip and hood panel, which are very unique and noticeable. Dodge also equipped the SRT-4 with a large rear wing and 17 inch wheels. The SRT-4 was powered by a turbocharged version of the Neon 2.4 liter I4 engine. This same engine was in the 2002 Chrysler PT Cruiser GT, but had been used in various other vehicles in the Mexican market. The SRT-4 was also equipped with a New Venture Gear T-850 five speed manual transmission, equal length half shafts, as well as a high capacity Sachs performance clutch. The SRT-4 was also equipped with a stiffer springs for suspension than the Neon, Tokico struts, larger sway bars in both the front and rear than the Neon, firmer brushings, upgraded knuckles, vented front disc brakes, and non vented discs in the rear.
No only were the exterior and mechanical elements of the SRT-4 top-notch, the interior was just as finished and high quality. The front seats offered lumbar and lateral support for comfortable performance driving, a faux carbon fiber steering wheel, a cue ball shift known, as well as gauged that all had silver rings that matched the climate controls.
In 2004 the SRT-4 was updated and given more power and more toque, three season tires, new paint, and flashy new trim. In 2005 Dodge offered new colors for the SRT-4 as well as the return of the American Club Racing edition vehicles. The ACR models offered wider wheels and tired, five-year adjustable shock absorbers, a stiffer suspension, as well as the American Club Racing logos on the vehicle. There is no doubt about it; the SRT-4 is a performance vehicle to be reckoned with both in appearance and performance.
