1997 Dodge Neon Sport review from North America

My head gasket blew at 36,000 miles.

I did a lot of research before I bought this car and I have been very happy with it the 4yrs I have owned it.

From what I determined the Achilles heal of the Neon is the 3 speed automatic transmission. So I got the stick. The other issue is the head gaskets, which tend to leak and were redesigned in 1999 (I think). I bought mine knowing this was a problem, but for the price I was willing to roll the dice. When mine actually did go out under warranty I was almost relieved. The dealer was great and took care of it for little or no cost to me.

I wanted a sports car, while my wife wanted a family car. This car I could tell her gets 37mpg on the highway and has 4 seats and a fold down back seat to haul large items in the trunk. I on the other hand was attracted to the 150hp engine mated to a slick 5-speed transmission. The sport model I have also has a sportier suspension.

The car is a blast to drive and sips fuel while cornering and accelerating like a sports car. The most amazing thing is nothing has gone wrong with the car other than the head gasket that the dealer took care of. I have spent nothing on repairs over the last 4 yrs; it has even been better than my wife's Toyota, and my old BMW.

This car has changed my opinion of American cars. I am spoiled though and want to replace my wife's car with a vehicle that gets as good of gas mileage as well as having ample power and am unable to find any equal to the Neon.