{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2019}} {{Infobox automobile |name = Dodge Neon SRT-4 |image = Electric_Blue_SRT4_01.png |manufacturer = Dodge (DaimlerChrysler) |assembly = United States: Belvidere, Illinois |production = 2003–2005 |successor = Dodge Caliber SRT-4 |class = Sport Compact |body_style = 4-door sedan |related = Dodge Neon |layout = Transverse front-engine, front-wheel drive |platform = Chrysler PL platform |engine = 2.4 L ''EDV/EDT'' I4 (t/c gasoline) |wheelbase = {{convert|105.0|in|mm|abbr=on}} |length = {{convert|174.4|in|mm|abbr=on}} |width = {{convert|67.4|in|mm|abbr=on}} |height = {{convert|56.0|in|mm|abbr=on}} |weight = {{convert|2900|lb|abbr=on}} |transmission = 5-speed NVG ''T-850'' manual | designer = Eric Stoddard }}
The '''Dodge Neon SRT-4''' (also known and later labeled as '''Dodge SRT-4''') is a sport compact car manufactured by Dodge from 2003 to 2005. A turbocharged variant of the Neon,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/american_performance/dodge_neon_srt_4_road_test |title=Dodge Neon SRT-4 - Road Test |publisher=Car And Driver |date=December 2002 |access-date=September 29, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090417062631/http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/american_performance/dodge_neon_srt_4_road_test |archive-date=April 17, 2009 }}</ref> the car was developed by DaimlerChrysler's in house PVO (Performance Vehicle Operations) tuner group. PVO was officially renamed SRT (Street and Racing Technology) in 2004. The "4" in the SRT-4's name denotes the number of cylinders of the engine.<ref name="autotropolis.com">{{cite web| url=http://www.autotropolis.com/wiki/index.php?title=SRT|first=Tony |last=Swan |title=Dodge Street & Racing Technology (SRT) | SRT-4 | SRT-8 | SRT-10|publisher=Autotropolis.com|access-date= May 2, 2009}}</ref> ACR (American Club Racing)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/sedans/0505_dodge_srt4_acr/index.html|title=2005 Dodge SRT4 ACR – Review & Road Test|publisher=Automobilemag.com|date=April 11, 2005|access-date=May 2, 2009|archive-date=June 14, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090614184617/http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/sedans/0505_dodge_srt4_acr/index.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> and Commemorative Edition<ref>{{cite web|last=Kaehler|first=Justin|url=http://cars.ign.com/articles/620/620153p1.html|title=IGN: Commemorative Edition SRT|publisher=Cars.ign.com|date=May 27, 2005| access-date=May 2, 2009}}</ref> models were later introduced as well.
==History== {{more citations needed section|date=October 2009}}
In 1998, Tom Gale, (then Executive Vice President of Chrysler Product Development and Design), attended the 1998 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas. Gale noted a list of performance features he saw on the sport compact cars at the show, and wanted to integrate those features into Chrysler's compact production car, the Dodge Neon. Gale was the design chief of the original Dodge Viper concept vehicle, and recognized an opportunity to build a sport compact that would appeal to the younger auto generation who grew up on tuner cars, who may prefer a new car with the same performance appeal right off the showroom floor.
A group of young Dodge and Chrysler talent was assembled to put together a vehicle to meet Gale's request, with all of the team members sharing first-hand knowledge and familiarity of the existing Dodge Neon. They created a concept car, the 2000 Neon SRT, in just 4 months, with a 2.0 L 16-valve four-cylinder topped with a 45-cubic-inch Eaton supercharger, which produced {{convert|208|hp|kW|abbr=on}} and {{convert|180|lbft|Nm|abbr=on}} of torque at the flywheel on {{convert|11|psi|bar|abbr=on}} of boost. (Sport Compact Car magazine tested the car in the Feb. 2001 issue and dynoed {{convert|179|hp|kW|abbr=on}} and {{convert|149|lbft|Nm|abbr=on}} torque at the wheels.)
The group put more than 1000 miles on the test track with the vehicle in under two weeks. In November 1999, the car was shown at the SEMA show with a glowing response. The vehicle was then shown at the Los Angeles Auto Show in January 2000, center stage on a turntable.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/news/dodge-neon-srt-an-honorary-import-auto-shows|title = Dodge Neon SRT an Honorary Import?|date = January 2000}}</ref> The team continued to work on the car, to try to bring it to the level of production vehicle, creating a second car using more production-oriented parts in an effort to lower the costs necessary to justify production. They even parked the second car in Gale's parking spot in order to get it noticed. Regardless, in fall of 2000, the executive committee rejected the production car proposal. The team put together a list of reasons why the car was not approved, and worked through the list item by item to find solutions to every issue presented. After three more versions of the car, the company's Specialty Vehicle Engineering (SVE) team took over the project. The executive committee once again considered the vehicle in the spring of 2001, and this time gave the go ahead for the project. thumb|Rear view In January 2002, SVE became known as Performance Vehicle Operations (PVO).<ref>{{cite book |last=Stone |first=Matt |date=May 1, 2004 |title=Viper |publisher=Motorbooks |page=63 |isbn=0760317674}}</ref> The PVO group was responsible for developing the concept car into a production car. A turbocharged 2.4 liter inline-4 gasoline engine (A853 engine) was used. This engine was nearly identical to the 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser (A855 engine), except the SRT-4 did not have the unique intake manifold required to fit the engine into the PT Cruiser engine bay. The car was then given a New Venture Gear T-850 five-speed manual transmission (based on the unit from the European turbodiesel minivans), equal-length half shafts, and a high capacity Sachs performance clutch. The suspension had stiffer springs, SRT-tuned Tokico struts (with travel reduced to provide clearance for the larger wheels), and larger front and rear sway bars were added. A unique steering gear, PT Cruiser steering knuckles, and an updated K member were also incorporated. Front brakes used 11.0 in (280 mm) vented disc brakes with extra thick rotors to prevent warping, and 10.6 in (270 mm) non-vented disc brakes in the rear, with single piston calipers (57mm front, 36mm rear).
17 x 6 inch cast aluminum wheels were used, with an offset of 43mm, along with 205/50/17 Michelin Pilot Sport performance tires. The wheels were designed with a unique spoke pattern to allow for improved airflow to the brakes, and were similar to that of the TSW VX1 wheels used on the original 2000 Neon SRT. Unique side skirts, rear fascia, and a large rear wing (spoiler) were used to upgrade the exterior look of the vehicle. The cooling ducts (front nostrils) were added to the pre-production car in late 2002 on the front fascia to help reduce temperatures in the engine bay of the vehicle.
On the interior, the standard agate-colored front seats were modeled after the Dodge Viper SRT-10 seats, and featured enhanced lumbar and lateral side bolsters to stabilize occupants during performance driving. In 2004, base Neon side airbag seats were added as an option. A faux carbon fiber steering wheel and shift boot were used, along with a satin silver “cue ball” type shift knob and silver aluminum floor pedals. Unique gauge designs in the SRT-4 (which were exclusive to the SRT lineup) featured special silver faces with satin silver ring accents, and the SRT-4 logo on the facing. The same satin metal trim was also featured on the instrument panel center stack, climate control knobs and on the door handles. A silver (white in early 2003 models) Auto-Meter brand turbo boost/vacuum gauge was set to the right of the instrument cluster. Like all other Neon models, the SRT-4 had power front windows, and manual rear windows, a costs saving feature. Overall, the vehicle's entire powertrain (engine and transmission), suspension, braking system, exhaust, wheels, and tires were upgraded from that of the base model Neon, along with the interior upgrades. The production model was produced in Belvidere, Illinois, with 84% US content.
In 2003, the Dodge Neon SRT-4 went on sale to the public. At the time, the car was the second fastest stock production vehicle in the Chrysler/Dodge lineup, second only to the Viper.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/dodge_neon_2003|title=2003 Dodge Neon Review, Ratings, Specs, Prices, and Photos|website=The Car Connection}}</ref> In 2004, PVO changed their name to Street & Racing Technology (SRT), Chrysler's high-performance automotive group. The 2004 model was updated with more power and torque, and included a torque-sensing Quaife limited-slip differential, larger fuel injectors, new engine management software, BF Goodrich g-Force T/A KDW-2 three season ultra-high-performance tires, and paint/trim changes. Dodge removed the “Neon” designation from the vehicle in 2004, marketing the car simply as the “SRT-4”. In 2005, an American Club Racer (ACR) package and limited edition numbered Commemorative version of the SRT-4 were also offered.
Initially, Dodge expected to sell a conservative number of only 2,500 units per year. However, during the three year production run (2003 through 2005), more than 25,000 Neon SRT-4s were produced. With the discontinuation of the PL platform after model year 2005, the SRT-4 ceased production. In 2008 Dodge introduced the Caliber SRT-4 as a replacement.
==Performance== thumb|2004 Dodge SRT-4 engine bay {| |- !valign=top align=left|'''Power:''' |SAE {{convert|215|hp|kW|abbr=on}} (2003 model) <br/> SAE {{convert|230|hp|kW|abbr=on}} (2004–2005 models)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kbb.com/kbb/CompareCars/Report.aspx?CompareCarsVehicleIds=452-5845&CompareCarsSelectionHistory=&SelectedTabIndex=3|title= Compare 2005 Dodge Neon vs 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse – Official Kelley Blue Book Site|publisher= Kbb.com|access-date=May 2, 2009}}{{dead link|date=November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.automotive.com/2005/12/dodge/srt-4/specifications/index.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051105090931/http://www.automotive.com/2005/12/dodge/srt-4/specifications/index.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 5, 2005|title=2005 Dodge SRT-4 Specifications | Used 2005 SRT-4 Specs at|publisher=Automotive.com|access-date=May 2, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/used/2005/dodge/neonsrt4/100454495/specs.html |title=2005 Dodge SRT-4 specs, auto safety at Edmunds |publisher=Edmunds.com |access-date=May 2, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080707083741/http://www.edmunds.com/used/2005/dodge/neonsrt4/100454495/specs.html |archive-date=July 7, 2008 }}</ref> In 2004, the SRT-4 received a power increase, with larger fuel injectors and a recalibrated engine computer.<ref name="drivechicago.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.drivechicago.com/heart.php?setminor=3457&gs_num=8218&rev_num=1131|title=Reviews: 2004 Dodge SRT-4 - SRT4 driver\'s car|publisher=Drivechicago.com|access-date=May 2, 2009}}{{dead link|date=September 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Manufacturer's specification when the SRT-4 was released was {{convert|230|hp|kW|abbr=on}}. However, several independent tests have produced results indicating 230-238 whp and 250-262 lb-ft. This would indicate that the SRT-4 produces more power than the manufacturer claims. The flywheel power is estimated to be 255-265 hp(190-198 kW) and 260-270 lb-ft torque(352-366 N·m)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.turbomagazine.com/tech/0407tur_dodge_srt4_bolt_ons/index.html|title=Dodge SRT-4 Bolt-ons – Tech Review|publisher=Turbo Magazine|access-date=May 2, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090506155137/http://www.turbomagazine.com/tech/0407tur_dodge_srt4_bolt_ons/index.html|archive-date=May 6, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sportcompactcarweb.com/projectcars/0310scc_dodge_neon_srt_4/index.html|title=Dodge Neon SRT-4 – Project Cars – Sport Compact Car Magazine|publisher=Sportcompactcarweb.com|access-date=May 2, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090203043102/http://www.sportcompactcarweb.com/projectcars/0310scc_dodge_neon_srt_4/index.html|archive-date=February 3, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="allpar.com">{{cite web|title=Dodge SRT-4: Ultimate Neon|url=http://www.allpar.com/neon/neon-srt-4.html|work=allpar.com|access-date=May 2, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.carthrottle.com/post/future-classic-2003-2005-dodge-srt-4/|title=Future Classic: 2003-2005 Dodge SRT-4|website=Car Throttle}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.modernperformance.com/dcx/srt4_faq.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070821045529/http://www.modernperformance.com/dcx/srt4_faq.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=August 21, 2007|title=Have a question about the SRT-4|date=August 21, 2007}}</ref> |- !valign=top align=left|Torque: |{{convert|245|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on}} @ 3200-4200 rpm (2003 model)<br/>{{convert|250|lbft|Nm|0|abbr=on}} @ 2400-4400 rpm (2004–2005 models) |- !valign=top align=left|0-{{convert|60|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} time: |5.6s (2003) 5.3s (2004, 2005)<ref name="ReferenceB">{{cite web|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/dodge-srt-4-short-take-road-test |title=Dodge SRT-4 - Short Take Road Test – Car Reviews |date=April 2004 |publisher=Car and Driver |access-date=October 14, 2012}}</ref> |- !valign=top align=left|Rev Limiter/Redline: |6240<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |- !valign=top align=left|{{frac|1|4}} mile (400 m) time: |14.1s (2003) 13.9s (2004, 2005)<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |- !valign=top align=left|{{frac|1|4}} mile speed: |{{convert|102|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} (2003)<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite web|author= TONY SWAN|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/dodge-neon-srt-4-road-test |title=Dodge Neon SRT-4 – Road Test – Car Reviews |publisher=Car and Driver |date= December 2002|access-date=October 14, 2012}}</ref> {{convert|103|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} (2004, 2005)<ref name="ReferenceB"/> |- !valign=top align=left|Top speed: |''Car and Driver'' magazine achieved a maximum speed of {{convert|153|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}.<ref name="caranddriver.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/american_performance/dodge_srt_4_short_take_road_test|title=Dodge SRT-4 - Short Take Road Test/American Performance/High Performance/Hot Lists/Reviews/Car and Driver|publisher=Car And Driver|date=March 23, 2008|access-date=May 2, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090511160909/http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/american_performance/dodge_srt_4_short_take_road_test|archive-date=May 11, 2009}}</ref> |}
==Engine details== The SRT-4 used the same basic engine block as the naturally aspirated 2003+ 2.4L, and was different from the years previous used in the naturally aspirated Chrysler 2.4L cars such as the PT Cruiser and four-door Stratus. The SRT4 engine had many improvements, including: stronger crank case webbing, a thicker deck with 11 mm head bolts (vs 10 mm), an oil drain back for the turbo, a cast aluminum structural oil pan, a higher capacity oil pump, a crankshaft of higher hardness steel, improved machining of bearing journals, oil squirters (to cool underside of pistons), eutectic aluminum alloy pistons made specially by Mahle, and forged connecting rods with cracked caps and 9 mm bolts. The cylinder head was also different for turbo engines, from naturally aspirated. The turbo version (PT Cruiser GT Turbo and SRT-4) included: larger diameter valves and seats, exhaust valves made of Inconel, improved cooling and larger oil drain back passages, different camshafts. The PT Cruiser Turbo engine package differs from the SRT-4 because the intake manifold, turbocharger plumbing and intercooler are different. The SRT-4 intercooler was a front-mounted cast aluminum 8-row unit produced by Valeo, unique in its efficiency and computer designed end tanks for air flow.
The turbocharger was a reverse rotation Mitsubishi TD04LR-15Gk with a {{convert|6|cm2|sqin|abbr=on}} turbine inlet. Tight packaging forced some creative thinking on the turbocharger. The TD04 compressor has a compressor bypass valve built right into the compressor housing. The exhaust manifold and turbine housing were cast in one piece by Mitsubishi from high-nickel Ni-Resist steel. The one-piece design improved flow, reduced size and reduced thermal mass for quicker cat light-off. The turbine discharge was also part of the manifold/turbine housing casting, and it looped back around and hit the manifold again on its way to the catalytic converter. Where they met, there was a wastegate valve; keeping the wastegate valve away from the turbine housing improved flow where it mattered most. Maximum boost in stock form was around {{convert|14|psi|kPa|abbr=on}}. Piston velocities and valve-train components force a rev limit of 6240 rpm although MOPAR upped the ante with their Stage 2 and 3 kits which have a rev limit of 6500 rpm.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.moparsupercenter.com/pdfs/P5007863.pdf|title=Mopar Stage 3R information sheet|publisher=Mopar|access-date=May 10, 2010|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110714114143/http://www.moparsupercenter.com/pdfs/P5007863.pdf|archive-date=July 14, 2011}}</ref>
The exhaust system for the vehicle consists of {{convert|2.25|in|mm|2|adj=on}} steel tubing, which is run first through the catalytic converter, then through two resonators. The exhaust then splits into two separate sections of piping, exiting through two {{convert|3.75|in|mm|abbr=on}} stainless steel tips at the rear of the vehicle. The exhaust system is unique in that there is no muffler, instead relying on the turbocharger and resonators to reduce the exhaust volume. The result is a very distinctive and audible exhaust note.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.superstreetonline.com/cars/new-car-reviews/012scc-2003-dodge-srt-4/|title=2003 Dodge SRT-4 Road Test Review - Sport Compact Car Magazine|date=November 20, 2002}}</ref> {| | !colspan=2|<big>Specifications</big> |- !align=left|Block height: |align=right|{{convert|9.375|in|abbr=on}} |- !align=left|Displacement: |align=right|{{convert|2429|cc|cuin|abbr=on}} |- !align=left|Stroke: |align=right|{{convert|3.976|in|mm|abbr=on}} |- !align=left|Bore: |align=right|{{convert|3.445|in|mm|abbr=on}} |- !align=left|Rod length: |align=right|{{convert|5.944|in|mm|abbr=on}} |- !align=left|Main journal diameter: |align=right|{{convert|2.36|in|abbr=on}} |- !align=left|Deck clearance: |align=right|{{convert|0.200|in|abbr=on}} |- !align=left|Combustion chamber volume: |align=right|{{convert|50.0|cc|abbr=on}} |- !align=left|Head gasket thickness: |align=right|{{convert|0.040|in|abbr=on}} |- !align=left|Compression ratio: |align=right|8.1:1 |}
==ACR model== This factory competition version included:
*Wider 16×7-inch (410×180 mm) BBS RX racing wheels with {{convert|40|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} offset *Wider 225/45/16 BFG KDW2 tires *Lowered ride height (Front: {{convert|10|mm|in|abbr=on}} from spring seat lowering, additional {{convert|22|mm|in|abbr=on}} through smaller diameter tire; Rear: {{convert|23.5|mm|in|abbr=on}} from spring seat lowering, additional {{convert|22|mm|in|abbr=on}} through smaller diameter tire) *5 position adjustable performance Tokico Illumina dampers. Proportional compression and rebound damping adjustment is accomplished via multiple oil bleed orifices within the damper. *Thicker rear stabilizer bar (19 mm) *Stiffer bushings in the rear tension struts *ACR embroidered, Viper-styled, racing seats with pass-throughs for a racing harness *ACR decals on the bottoms of the front doors *Full diameter P205/60R15 spare tire *Vehicle Speed Sensor gear changed from 20 tooth to 21 tooth to correct speedometer for different stock tire heights. *There were a total of 1,175 SRT-4 ACR's produced for the public: 225 Flame Red (PR4), 211 Orange Blast (PVK), 306 Stone White (PW1), 433 Black (PX8).
==2005 Commemorative Edition== thumb|2005 Commemorative Edition Dodge SRT-4 In 2005, Dodge released an SRT-4 Commemorative Edition. This model (along with the Commemorative Edition versions of the Viper SRT-10 and Ram SRT-10) was created to celebrate the SRT vehicles.
This limited, numbered version included:
*"Electric Blue" painted "Viper" stripes over the "Stone White" colored body. *Blue stitching on the floor mats, shift boots, seats, and steering wheel. *Stainless steel "SRT-4" door sill plates. *A total of 200 Commemorative Edition SRT-4's were built. *A "XXX/200" numbered metal plaque, inset just ahead of the cup holders. *A Commemorative Edition booklet (same booklet included with the Commemorative Vipers and Ram SRT-10's). *No performance extras were added on the Commemorative Edition.
==2003 SRT-4 Extreme LightWeight== In 2003, Dodge engineers built a special SRT-4 Extreme LightWeight for the 2003 SEMA show. It was designed to showcase the factory upgrade parts available for the SRT-4 from Mopar. The vehicle featured lightweight, carbon fiber body pieces (produced in-house), a polycarbonate rear window, and the front window glass removed for weight reduction. The interior was stripped completely, with only the stock dash remaining. A single Recaro racing seat, a harness, and a roll cage were installed for safety. The car featured the first stage 3R Mopar engine performance kit and stage 3R coilovers. Overall, the weight of the vehicle was reduced by {{convert|405|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} to {{convert|2500|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}} wet, and was dyno'd at 360 hp (270 kW) and 383 lb•ft (519 N•m) (at the wheels) by ''Sport Compact Car'' magazine. On drag slicks, it ran an 11.83-second pass at 123 mph (198 km/h) in 70 °F (21 °C) weather.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.melaniff.com/srt-4/sport%20compact%20car/sport_compact_car_november_2004.htm |title=Factory Hot Rods: SRT-4 Extreme Lightweight |publisher=Sport Compact Car |date=November 2004 |access-date=19 September 2019}}</ref> This one-off SRT-4 was used for media events and testing of the Mopar development parts, and was destroyed as an asset reduction move in 2009.
==Awards== *Car and Driver magazine's 2005 John Lingenfelter Memorial Trophy<ref>{{cite journal|journal=Car and Driver |date=November 2005 |volume=51 |issue=5 |pages=110–121 |first=Tony |last=Swan |title=Superfour Challenge }}</ref> *Was one of "Eight Great Rides" as decided by Sport Compact Car magazine (SCC) in 2003, 2004, and 2005 - all three years the SRT-4 was produced. *Named the 2003 Car of the Year by '''SCC'''.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.sportcompactcarweb.com/features/0302scc_2003_dodge_neon_srt4/index.html|title=2003 Dodge Neon SRT-4 Car Of The Year Award|publisher=Sport Compact Car Web|access-date=September 24, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060527074131/http://sportcompactcarweb.com/features/0302scc_2003_dodge_neon_srt4/index.html|archive-date=May 27, 2006}}</ref> *Won numerous comparisons in several U.S. automotive magazines from 2003 to 2005, including: **1st place -,<ref>[https://archive.today/20070614162241/http://web2.caranddriver.com/supercarchallenge/10165/superfour-challenge-page8.html SuperFour Super Car Challenge]</ref> Car and Driver magazine, November 2005. The SRT-4 competed against 14 other performance vehicles, finishing 1st in the front-wheel-drive division. **1st place -,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/comparisons/6569/the-featherweights-serial-thrillers.html |title=Serial Thrillers Comparo |publisher=Caranddriver.com |access-date=September 29, 2010}}</ref> Serial Thrillers comparison test, Car and Driver magazine, May 2004. **1st place -,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/sedans/0304_compact_sport_compared/index.html |title=Compact Sports Cars test |publisher=Automobilemag.com |access-date=September 29, 2010 |archive-date=January 22, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110122080235/http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/sedans/0304_compact_sport_compared/index.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> Automobile magazine, March 2004. **1st place -,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/comparison/articles/100452/page004.html |title=Edmunds comparison test |publisher=Edmunds.com |date=August 18, 2003 |access-date=September 29, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091003003322/http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/comparison/articles/100452/page004.html |archive-date=October 3, 2009 }}</ref> Sport Sedans Comparison, Edmunds, August 2003 **1st place -,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.sportcompactcarweb.com/features/0301scc_honda_ford_nissan_comparison/ |title=Tough Crowd comparison test |publisher=Sportcompactcarweb.com |access-date=September 29, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071017042650/http://www.sportcompactcarweb.com/features/0301scc_honda_ford_nissan_comparison/ |archive-date=October 17, 2007 }}</ref> Sport Compact Car Shootout, January 2003.
==Racing== In 2003, Cory O'Brien and Erich Heuschele drove an SRT-4 to a 1st in class and 8th overall finish in the Tire Rack Cannonball One Lap of America.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onelapofamerica.com/event/Results.do?eventId=22&res=OVL_CUM |title=the Official Webpage |publisher=One Lap of America |access-date=September 29, 2010}}</ref>
In SCCA ProRally racing, the SRT-4 (and more recently the ACR version) has dominated the Group 5 (2WD) class since 2003.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.dodgemotorsportsmedia.com/Default.aspx?POID=174 |title=Dodge Motorsports Media Guide |publisher=Dodgemotorsportsmedia.com |access-date=September 29, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710143114/http://www.dodgemotorsportsmedia.com/Default.aspx?POID=174 |archive-date=July 10, 2011 }}</ref> In just its first year competing, the Dodge ended the stranglehold that the FWD DSMs and Volkswagens had on the class. With three competing the following year, the SRT-4 won every 2004 series race and end-of-season award.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=173078&FS=GRASSROOTS |title=News channel |publisher=Motorsport.com |date=November 8, 2004 |access-date=September 29, 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081208174254/http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=173078&FS=GRASSROOTS |archive-date=December 8, 2008 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The SRT-4 has won every Group 5 and 2-Wheel-Drive class championship in US ProRally and Sno Drift since 2003, and its unprecedented dominance in 2004 helped Dodge earn its first US ProRally Manufacturers Championship in 28 years.<ref>{{cite press release|url= http://cars.ign.com/articles/722/722189p1.html |title=IGN: MOPAR at the X-Games |publisher=Cars.ign.com |date=July 31, 2006 |access-date=September 19, 2019}}</ref>
In 2005, Jeff Lepper drove the SRT-4 to its first ever national road racing win in the NASA US Touring Car Championship at California Speedway in Fontana.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.ustcc.com/results/fontana.html |title=USTCC Round One Race, California Sp |publisher=USTCC.com |date=March 12–13, 2005 |access-date=June 16, 2011}}</ref>
In 2005, Dale Seeley, Kolin Aspergren, and Jamin Cummings drove an SRT-4 to a 1st in class and 8th overall finish in the Tire Rack Cannonball One Lap of America.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onelapofamerica.com/event/Results.do?eventId=24&res=OVL_CUM |title=the Official Webpage |publisher=One Lap of America |access-date=September 29, 2010}}</ref>
In 2006, the Dodge SRT-4 officially became the world's fastest production 4-cylinder car, averaging {{convert|221|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah in a car driven by Jorgen Moller. The vehicle was tuned by Dave Harris and Phil Hurst for Racedeck Racing.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://dodge.off-road.com/dodge/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=365982 |title=Land Speed Record in a 4 Cylinder Dodge SRT-4 Production Car |publisher=Dodge.off-road.com |access-date=August 16, 2007|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070928064434/http://dodge.off-road.com/dodge/article/articleDetail.jsp?id=365982 |archive-date=September 28, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> right|thumb|Robb Holland and Dan Aweida's SPEED World Challenge SRT-4s
Multiple SRT-4s were raced in the SCCA SPEED World Challenge – Touring Car Series,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.world-challenge.com/ |title=SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge |publisher=World-challenge.com |access-date=September 29, 2010}}</ref> and in 2006 – their second year of competition – had become one of the more successful platforms in the series. Robb Holland, of 3R Racing, became the first Pro driver to put the SRT-4 on the podium with his 3rd-place finish at Road America in August 2006. This was Dodge's first podium and first manufacturer's points in World Challenge Touring Car competition. Holland would finish the season with 3 top 10 finishes and two top 5 qualifying efforts in the SRT-4.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.dodgemotorsportsmedia.com/Default.aspx?POID=259 |title=Dodge Motorsports Media Guide |publisher=Dodgemotorsportsmedia.com |access-date=September 29, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110710143118/http://www.dodgemotorsportsmedia.com/Default.aspx?POID=259 |archive-date=July 10, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.paddocktalk.com/news/html/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=40730 |title=Mosport: Dodge SCCA Weekend Recap |publisher=PaddockTalk |date=September 6, 2006 |access-date=September 29, 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070928013552/http://www.paddocktalk.com/news/html/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=40730 |archive-date=September 28, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
In 2007, Doug Wind, Devin Clancy, and Ken Brewer drove an SRT-4 to a 1st in class and 5th overall finish in the Tire Rack Cannonball One Lap of America.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.onelapofamerica.com/event/Results.do?eventId=26&res=OVL_CUM |title=the Official Webpage |publisher=One Lap of America |access-date=September 29, 2010}}</ref>
In 2007, George Biskup drove an SRT-4 Neon to several SCCA T-2 National wins, and set the Track Qualifying Record at Road America. His lap time of 2:33.922 remained the record for several years. Earlier in 2005, Biskup won the first SCCA National race he entered at Gingerman Raceway. Due to snowy conditions, the race was run under yellow and finishing positions were as qualified, Biskup's SRT-4 was on the pole with the fastest qualifying time.
In 2007, Curt Simmons won the U.S. Touring Car Championship in an SRT-4<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.ustcc.com/news/08_01_31_simmons.html |title=Curt Simmons wins the 2007 USTCC championship |publisher=Ustcc.com |date=November 11, 2007 |access-date=September 29, 2010}}</ref> and Dodge won the season manufacturers points championship by 29 points over Honda behind the strength of several SRT-4's.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.ustcc.com/ustcc_points.html |title=U.S. Touring Car Championship points |publisher=Ustcc.com |access-date=September 29, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081208192358/http://www.ustcc.com/ustcc_points.html |archive-date=December 8, 2008 }}</ref>
In 2007, Stan Wilson won the Speed World Challenge Touring Car Rookie Driver of the Year and the Sunoco Hard Charger of the Year awards driving the Sorted Performance Dodge SRT-4.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.world-challenge.com/news/story.php?ID=792 |title=Sorted Performance – Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca Report |publisher=World-challenge.com |access-date=September 29, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110716071056/http://www.world-challenge.com/news/story.php?ID=792 |archive-date=July 16, 2011}}</ref> This was Dodge's first title in Speed World Challenge Touring Car.
In 2008, Curt Simmons attempts to defend his USTCC series championship, winning on June 29, 2008, at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, CA.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.ustcc.com/news/08_06_29_infineon.html |title=U.S. Touring Car Championship news |publisher=Ustcc.com |date=June 29, 2008 |access-date=September 29, 2010}}</ref>
In 2012, Russ Deane set a new world land speed record for four-cylinder production cars (SRT-4) of more than {{convert|226|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}. He surpassed the previous record of 224 mph for a Class F/PS vehicle. Deane and his Hinckley Automotive race team were participating in Speed Week at the Bonneville Salt Flats. His race team included Jim Hinckley, Dave Harris (chief), Craig Ohlson, "Camel" Joe George, Troy Cheney, Stuart Gosswein, and Jim Hinckley Jr.<ref>{{cite web |title=Russ Deane Sets New World Land Speed Record - SEMA |url=https://www.sema.org/sema-news/2012/10/russ-deane-sets-new-world-land-speed-record |website=www.sema.org |date=October 2012 |access-date=19 September 2019 |archive-date=June 27, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190627084319/https://www.sema.org/sema-news/2012/10/russ-deane-sets-new-world-land-speed-record |url-status=dead }}</ref>
==Notes== {{reflist|colwidth=30em}}
==References== *[http://www.caranddriver.com/shortroadtests/7871/dodge-srt-4.html 2004 SRT-4 Road Test] by Car and Driver magazine, April 2004 *[http://www.allpar.com/ Allpar] *[https://web.archive.org/web/20081007090030/http://www.sportcompactcarweb.com/roadtests/012scc_2003_dodge_srt_4/ 2003 SRT-4 Road Test] by Sport Compact Car magazine, January 2003
==External links== {{Commons category|Dodge Neon SRT4}}*[http://search.dmoz.org/cgi-bin/search?search=dodge+srt Dodge SRT-4]{{Dead link|date=August 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} at the Open Directory Project <!--Due to continued disputes over external links, the links have been replaced with a link to the Open Directory Project, as per Wikipedia's external links policy. Please do not add links here; instead, investigate adding your link to the ODP site.-->
{{Dodge}} {{Dodge timeline 1980 to date}} {{Dodge Canada Timeline}} {{Dodge Mexico Timeline}} {{SRT timeline}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Dodge Srt-4}} SRT-4 Category:Sport compact cars Category:Front-wheel-drive sports cars Category:Sports sedans Category:Cars introduced in 2003