1996 Dodge Neon
Should You Buy a 1996 Dodge Neon?
The 1996 Dodge Neon is a compact sedan that offers a blend of practicality and performance for budget-conscious buyers. With a 2.0L I4 engine producing 123 hp and 129 lb-ft of torque, it delivers a respectable 28 MPG combined, making it a suitable choice for daily commuting. The front-wheel-drive layout and 5-speed manual transmission provide an engaging driving experience, appealing to those who appreciate a hands-on approach to their vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the 887 total complaints reported to the NHTSA, particularly concerning engine issues, which account for a significant portion of the complaints.
The 1996 Dodge Neon is best suited for young professionals or first-time car buyers seeking an affordable, practical vehicle for daily commuting and city driving.
Strengths
- +Affordable entry-level sedan
- +Good fuel economy at 28 MPG combined
- +Engaging driving experience with manual transmission
- +Compact size suitable for urban environments
- +Decent reliability score of 90.8/100
Weaknesses
- -High number of engine-related complaints
- -Limited safety features compared to modern vehicles
- -Potential for higher maintenance costs due to common issues
- -Unknown seating capacity may deter family-oriented buyers
- -Less powerful than some competitors in the compact segment
Known Issues (NHTSA Data)
The 1996 Dodge Neon has a notable number of complaints, with 58 crash incidents and 35 injuries reported. The most frequent issues relate to the engine and engine cooling systems, as well as airbag functionality. While the reliability score stands at 90.8/100, the presence of engine-related complaints suggests that buyers should conduct thorough inspections and consider maintenance history before purchasing. No significant NHTSA complaints on record regarding fatalities indicate a level of safety, but caution is advised.
Performance
- Horsepower
- –
- Torque
- –
- Engine
- 2 L
- Cylinders
- I4
- Transmission
- Automatic 3-spd
- Drive Type
- FWD
Efficiency
- MPG Combined
- 25
- Fuel Type
- Regular Gasoline
Dimensions
- Length
- 172 in
- Width
- 67.3 in
- Height
- 53.1 in
- Wheelbase
- 103.9 in
- Curb Weight
- 2,385 lbs
- Ground Clearance
- –
Capacity
- Doors
- 2
- Seating
- –
- Cargo
- –
- Max Cargo
- –
- Max Towing
- –
- Max Payload
- –
Estimated Value
Value estimate unavailable. MSRP data not available for this vehicle.