Data on the 1997 Dodge Neon Base

Several things can be said about the Dodge Neon series: including the polarizing reactions most buyers have towards their car. The four-cylinder engine is at the heart of the strong emotions, it is powerful for its class and delivers a large amount of torque.

1997 Dodge Neon Base Specs

The restyled Neon Base is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that utilizes 16 valves. The engine is mated to a Chrysler five-speed transaxle. This has resulted in an increase in horsepower and torque over the 1996 version.

The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. Steering is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The Neon uses power-assisted brakes, with Non-ABS support. Load balancing is provided by coil front springs and coil in the rear.

The 1997 Neon's standard fuel system runs on gas. The fuel is regulated electronically, with a fuel-injected MFI style of design. The fuel capacity of the car is 12.50 gallons.

Statistics

The dimensions of the Neon Base are 67.50 inches wide by 171.80 inches long. It sits 54.90 inches off the ground. It seats a standard five passengers, with 2 doors. The wheelbase of 104.00 allows for extra leg room for the rear passengers.

There is a 50,000* mile, 60* month warranty with this vehicle, including a powertrain warranty of 50,000*/36* miles/months. This is normal for this price range.

The original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) was $10,800 when new, with a dealer invoice cost of $10,131. This price was in line with the industry average price for a 2-door Coupe.

MPG Ratings

The Neon Base received a miles-per-gallon rating of 25 - 29 in-city driving and 34 - 39 when it came to highway driving. Being a gas-powered non-hybrid car, this was within normal parameters.

In 1996 and 1997 the Neon Base was availble in the exterior colors of several colors.

What We Think of the Dodge Neon

The 1997 model year was very successful for the Dodge Neon. The introduction of several trim levels (along with the Base version) meant that buyers could find the version that best suited their needs.