Here is the rewritten title: Dominate Japanese Roads: JDM Sedans Outclasssed by Unlikely Performance Champion Dodge Neon
The Dodge Neon: A Performance Bargain with a Twist
The Dodge Neon was a car with two faces – one as an econobox, with a chintzy interior, poor build quality, and underwhelming safety ratings, and the other as a performance bargain. While it wasn’t universally loved in America, the Neon received positive reviews in other markets, such as Japan. In 1994, Japan’s Best Motoring magazine pitted the Neon against the Honda Accord EX and Nissan Sunny 1500 Super Saloon, and the American car surprisingly took the top spot.
A Regular Old Neon, but with a Twist
We’re not talking about a high-performance Neon ACR or SRT-4. This was a regular, non-turbocharged Dodge Neon, equipped with a 2-liter, 132-horsepower four-cylinder engine and a three-speed automatic transmission. There was nothing special about the Neon Best Motoring tested, but it still managed to outperform its competitors on the track. At one point, it seemed like the Neon driver was toying with the others, effortlessly leaving the Accord and Sunny in its dust.
A Practicality Test
During a practicality test, the Neon proved to be just as spacious inside as the Accord, offering interior comfort and trunk space on par with its contemporaries. This made it an attractive option for those seeking a more engaging driving experience without sacrificing practicality. As a June 1996 Bloomberg article noted, the Neon held promise in Japan, but struggled due to its classification as a larger vehicle, resulting in higher road taxes. By December ’96, Chrysler had sold only 900 Neons in Japan, and enthusiasm waned.
A Rocket Among Sensible Sedans
Despite poor international sales and a lack of longevity, the Neon has gained recognition as a cheap and simple transportation option that’s fun to drive and easy to fix. While it may not be the best option for those seeking a reliable and long-lasting vehicle, the Neon is a blast to drive and offers a unique driving experience. And, hey, it’s faster than a Honda Accord of similar vintage!
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