Homologated by the SCCA, the ACR (for American Club Racer edition) was available as a coupe or sedan. Stripped down of creature comforts like air conditioning or a stereo, the ACR was literally a race car you could buy in the showroom. All you needed was to bolt in a roll bar and harness and you were ready to go.Available as a Dodge or Plymouth (the Neons sold under either banner were essentially identical save for a few special editions here and there), the sedan featured the 132hp SOHC 2.0-liter mill and the coupe completed its laps with the 150hp DOHC engine under its hood. All were powered by a unique five-speed transmission with closer-spaced ratios than the standard cars.
Other speed equipment included fatter anti-roll bars front and rear, adjustable shocks and a four-wheel disc brake package that made do without the anti-lock system normally included with the option. With faster ratio steering and less sound-deadening material, the stripped-down Neon proved a hit with SCCA racers. Even without A/C, the ACR models got the cooled Neon?s larger radiator to better cope with the stress of driving flat-out on the track.