Dodge Stealth: A Sports Car Born From A Japanese-American Collaboration

Dodge Stealth: A Sports Car Born from a Japanese-American Collaboration

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Dodge Stealth: A Sports Car Born from a Japanese-American Collaboration

Remembering the Dodge Stealth: the American Car from Japan

The Dodge Stealth is a sports car that was jointly developed by Chrysler and Mitsubishi Motors and sold under the Dodge brand from 1991 to 1996. The Stealth was the American counterpart to the Mitsubishi 3000GT, sharing the same platform, mechanical components, and overall design.

Genesis and Development

The idea for the Dodge Stealth originated in the late 1980s when Chrysler was looking to expand its sports car lineup. At the same time, Mitsubishi Motors was eager to enter the American market with a high-performance vehicle. The two companies decided to collaborate on a joint project, with Chrysler responsible for the exterior design and marketing, while Mitsubishi handled the engineering and production.

The Stealth was first unveiled as a concept car at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show. The production model debuted a year later at the 1990 Detroit Auto Show. The car was designed by Chrysler’s design team, led by Robert Hubbach, and featured a sleek and aerodynamic body with pop-up headlights, a sloping roofline, and a rear spoiler.

Production Years

The Dodge Stealth was produced for six model years, from 1991 to 1996. The production timeline can be divided into two distinct generations:

First Generation (1991-1993)

The first-generation Stealth was available in two trim levels: base and R/T. The base model came with a 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 164 horsepower, while the R/T model featured a more powerful 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 300 horsepower. Both engines were mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Second Generation (1994-1996)

The second-generation Stealth received a facelift that included a new front grille, revised headlights, and updated taillights. The base model’s V6 engine was upgraded to a 3.5-liter unit producing 214 horsepower, while the R/T model retained its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, which was now rated at 320 horsepower. Both engines continued to be offered with either a manual or automatic transmission.

Performance and Handling

The Dodge Stealth was known for its impressive performance and handling. The twin-turbocharged R/T model could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds and had a top speed of over 160 mph. The base model, while not as quick, still offered respectable performance with a 0-60 mph time of around 7 seconds.

The Stealth’s handling was also praised by automotive journalists. The car featured a sophisticated suspension system that provided excellent stability and cornering ability. The steering was responsive and precise, giving drivers a sense of confidence behind the wheel.

Features and Equipment

The Dodge Stealth was equipped with a range of features and amenities to enhance comfort and convenience. Standard features included power windows, power locks, cruise control, and air conditioning. Higher trim levels added features such as leather seats, a sunroof, and a premium audio system.

The Stealth also offered a number of advanced technologies for its time. The R/T model came with an active exhaust system that could vary the sound of the engine depending on the driving mode. The car also featured an optional all-wheel-drive system that provided improved traction in all weather conditions.

Sales and Legacy

The Dodge Stealth was a sales success for Chrysler, with over 60,000 units sold during its six-year production run. The car was particularly popular among young enthusiasts who were attracted to its sporty performance and sleek styling.

However, the Stealth’s popularity began to decline in the mid-1990s as competition from other sports cars intensified. Chrysler decided to discontinue the model after the 1996 model year.

Despite its relatively short production run, the Dodge Stealth remains a significant car in automotive history. It was one of the first successful collaborations between an American and Japanese automaker, and it helped to establish Chrysler as a credible player in the sports car market.

Conclusion

The Dodge Stealth was a unique and exciting sports car that combined American design with Japanese engineering. It offered impressive performance, handling, and features, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. Although its production ended over two decades ago, the Stealth continues to be remembered as a testament to the successful partnership between Chrysler and Mitsubishi Motors.

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