I have had two Neons. One cost 700.00 and the other was 500.00. Both were great cars. Look for a early model, sohc motor and a Manuel trans. The car will grow on you. Aftermarket Honda mag wheels fit them well. With a very few modifications these cars can be very fast. ( remember Mopar did sell race car versions of this car). A long tube header and a TB off of a Auto trans neon then a set of shifter bushings. Thats all to make the car very fun. The auto cars are very slow and you must have a good timing belt and water pump.
In my opinion Kirk racing in Alabama make the best header for the car. The header is a race header and is only painted. You can have a great little car for $1,200 or a super little car for $2,000.
http://www.kirkracing.com/
P.S. Dont forget how roomy the cars are. Fat people can fit!!!!