1Gen Neon R/T v. MkIV Jetta 1.8t

I currently have a MkIV Jetta with a 1.8t and Koni Yellows and I just can't get good at it autocrossing. It's heavy and I have to brake really early. It's also got high miles, is going to run into some big maintenance items, and the chassis is tweaked from a collision.

I found a really clean 1999 Neon R/T Coupe with 115k miles that drove OK. It was noticeably lighter than my car, so it's handling seemed a little easier to tame. I'm also attracted to the cheap maintenance and better gas mileage (I have a really long commute).

I want something I can autocross stock and commute in. Is the R/T a competitive car in G Stock or the modified classes?

The dealer wants $3500 for it - it seems high but the car is up to date on maintenance and has very little rust, which is rare on any 10 year old economy car around here.

I'd go for the R/T. I always wanted one. The price does seem high but they aren't getting any younger..

Drink the kool-aid. While it may not be in the "trifecta" (Miata, E30, P71) It is a rewarding little car with a good following on here.

The SCCA has kinda phased neaons out of g stock, at least as far as being competitive (but there isnt any reason you cant have fun with one at the local level while you learn to drive it as fast as it will go), but when you feel like it, it would be a good choice to build for FSP.