When the SRT-4 was released in 2003 to a market full of primarly Japanese competition, it was clear that Dodge was out for blood. Many import fanatics joke, tease and bash SRT-4 owners for driving what amounts to a 'turbo Neon', but the fact is that there was no faster machine available for the money- and it didn't do too badly when the road got twisty either.
In effect, the SRT-4 was a tuned up Neon that packed a turbocharged punch of up to 230 horsepower alongside suspension, brake, steering, wheel, tire and clutch upgrades to help handle the power. Look for a 2004 or later model if you're after real high performance, as the model received various driveline updates in it's second year including a limited slip differential, larger fuel injectors and an increase in horsepower and torque.
SRT-4 is set off visually with its large rear spoiler, dual-outlet exhaust, lowered stance, and a more aggressive fascia with a hood scoop that directs fresh air into the engine room. Look behind the revised front bumper and you'll notice the intercooler for the turbo as well. It's as mean looking as the cute, googly-eyed Neon ever looked.
It's meaner to drive, too. If your priority is speed and power, the car delivers in masses. Trouble is, a relatively harsh ride and noisy, gurgly sounding exhaust note aren't everyone's cup of tea. The SRT-4 didn't come with factory mufflers- only catalytic converters, and the resulting exhaust note is deep and full of potentially annoying sound effects.
The turbocharger acts as a muffler, smoothing out the exhaust note when its engaged- though the constant exhaust drone and various hissing and burping sounds from the turbine under the hood may get tiresome unless you own the collectors edition of The Fast and the Furious.
Additionally, the interior may leave some shoppers cold. Heavily bolstered seats are excellent for high performance driving, though they're not meant to accept a wider-than-average backside and may prove stiff and unforgiving on long trips. The entire interior is constructed of econo-plastic panels with a cheap and lightweight feel, and only the front windows are motorized. In all, it adds up to a potent performance machine- though not one without compromise.
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| 2003 Dodge SRT-4 |
In effect, the SRT-4 was a tuned up Neon that packed a turbocharged punch of up to 230 horsepower alongside suspension, brake, steering, wheel, tire and clutch upgrades to help handle the power. Look for a 2004 or later model if you're after real high performance, as the model received various driveline updates in it's second year including a limited slip differential, larger fuel injectors and an increase in horsepower and torque.
SRT-4 is set off visually with its large rear spoiler, dual-outlet exhaust, lowered stance, and a more aggressive fascia with a hood scoop that directs fresh air into the engine room. Look behind the revised front bumper and you'll notice the intercooler for the turbo as well. It's as mean looking as the cute, googly-eyed Neon ever looked.
It's meaner to drive, too. If your priority is speed and power, the car delivers in masses. Trouble is, a relatively harsh ride and noisy, gurgly sounding exhaust note aren't everyone's cup of tea. The SRT-4 didn't come with factory mufflers- only catalytic converters, and the resulting exhaust note is deep and full of potentially annoying sound effects.
The turbocharger acts as a muffler, smoothing out the exhaust note when its engaged- though the constant exhaust drone and various hissing and burping sounds from the turbine under the hood may get tiresome unless you own the collectors edition of The Fast and the Furious.
Additionally, the interior may leave some shoppers cold. Heavily bolstered seats are excellent for high performance driving, though they're not meant to accept a wider-than-average backside and may prove stiff and unforgiving on long trips. The entire interior is constructed of econo-plastic panels with a cheap and lightweight feel, and only the front windows are motorized. In all, it adds up to a potent performance machine- though not one without compromise.
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