The sedan Dodge Spirit 1988 - 1995 year modification 2.5 AT (102 hp)

Dodge Spirit: A Classic American Sedan

The Dodge Spirit, produced from 1988 to 1995, is a quintessential American sedan that combines practicality, reliability, and a touch of nostalgia. As a member of the D-class segment, this four-door sedan offers a balanced mix of performance, comfort, and affordability, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a dependable daily driver or a classic car with character.

Performance and Engine Specifications

Under the hood, the Dodge Spirit is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-4 petrol engine, delivering 102 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 183 Nm of torque at 2800 rpm. While not a powerhouse, this engine provides adequate performance for city driving and highway cruising, with a top speed of 165 km/h. The engine features a distributed injection system and a compression ratio of 9, ensuring efficient fuel combustion and decent fuel economy. Paired with a 3-speed automatic transmission, the Spirit offers smooth and hassle-free driving, particularly suited for urban environments.

Design and Dimensions

The Dodge Spirit boasts a classic sedan design with a length of 4602 mm, a width of 1731 mm, and a height of 1358 mm. Its wheelbase of 2629 mm contributes to a stable and comfortable ride, while the ground clearance of 120 mm ensures it can handle everyday road conditions with ease. The car's spacious interior and trunk, offering a minimum volume of 410 liters and a maximum of 555 liters, make it a practical choice for families or those who need ample cargo space.

Suspension and Braking System

The Spirit's suspension system is designed for comfort and reliability. The front suspension is independent and spring-based, while the rear suspension is dependent and also spring-based. This setup provides a smooth ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively. The braking system includes ventilated front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, offering adequate stopping power for the car's performance level.

Fuel Efficiency and Practicality

With a fuel tank capacity of 61 liters and compatibility with normal 92-octane petrol, the Dodge Spirit strikes a balance between range and affordability. Its fuel efficiency, combined with its spacious interior and trunk, makes it a practical choice for daily commuting and longer trips alike.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Reliable and straightforward mechanical design.
• Spacious interior and trunk for a sedan of its class.
• Smooth automatic transmission for easy driving.
• Comfortable suspension system suitable for urban and highway use.
• Affordable maintenance and fuel costs.

Cons:

• Modest engine power, not ideal for performance enthusiasts.
• Outdated 3-speed automatic transmission compared to modern standards.
• Basic interior features by today's standards.
• Limited ground clearance may not suit rough terrains.
• Drum rear brakes are less efficient than modern disc systems.

Conclusion

The Dodge Spirit is a testament to American automotive engineering from the late 1980s to the mid-1990s. While it may not boast cutting-edge technology or high-performance capabilities, it excels in reliability, practicality, and affordability. For those seeking a classic sedan with a straightforward design and dependable performance, the Dodge Spirit remains a solid choice. Its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and ease of maintenance make it a worthy contender in the used car market, particularly for budget-conscious buyers or enthusiasts of vintage American cars.