No. It is not a direct fit.
no
no different engine botl paterns
Yes there is no difference in the two years 2001 was a carry over from 2001.
No, the body parts for a 96 neon are a different style than that of a 2001. If you try to put a 1996 body part on a 2001, the bolt holes will not line up. Your best bet is 99, 98, 97, 95 neon body parts. They are the same body style. I own a 99 neon, it has a 95 brake light, 96 head light, 95 fender, and a 98 engine. It's had a rough life. lol
The starting motor for a 1996 Neon is on the side of the engine block. The starter is at the rear at the transmission.
No, The neon was revamped in 2003, with updated engines and chassis changes. As a Chrysler mechanic, the 2000 dodge neon 2.4L DOHC is the best. That will fit in a 2001 also.
in a shop
Yes
the transaxle is located to the right, slightly below and attached to the engine on a dodge neon
The engine on a Neon is interference, bent valves are likely.
no a 2001 dodge neon motor will not work in a 2000 neon
Being an overhead cam engine, a Neon doesn't have push rods.