Are Dodge Stealths fast?
Yes—the top-spec twin-turbo Stealths could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in about five seconds and run the quarter-mile in the low-to-mid 13-second range, making them fast by 1990s standards; naturally aspirated models were slower but still quick for their era.
Dodge built the Stealth from 1991 to 1996 in the United States, using Mitsubishi's 3000GT platform. The lineup primarily split between a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter V6 and a twin-turbo VR-4 version. The AWD VR-4 delivered the strongest straight-line performance, while the NA versions offered brisk acceleration with fewer mechanical complexities. Real-world results vary by year, condition, and drivetrain configuration.
Speed by variant
Below is a concise breakdown of the main performance figures for the Stealth's two core configurations, drawn from factory specs and common testing from the era.
- Twin-turbo VR-4 (all-wheel drive): roughly 320–322 horsepower; 0–60 mph about 5.0 seconds; quarter-mile in the low 13-second range; top speed commonly around 160–165 mph (electronically limited in some configurations).
- Natural-aspirated 3.0L V6 (non-turbo): roughly 160–170 horsepower; 0–60 mph typically 7.5–8.5 seconds; quarter-mile in the mid-teens (roughly 15–16 seconds); top speed around 140–150 mph.
The figures above reflect stock specifications; aftermarket modifications and tire choices can shift these numbers notably. The Twin-Turbo variant's performance is most striking when the turbochargers spool up and traction is strong, whereas the NA version relies on a lighter, less powerful package to achieve quicker acceleration only up to a point.
Real-world considerations
In practice, speed is only one part of the equation. The Stealth's weight, drivetrain complexity, and aging components influence how quickly a stock example will accelerate today. Maintenance history—particularly for the turbocharged motor—tends to impact performance more than the sticker numbers suggest.
- Weight: older Stealths carry roughly 3,500–3,900 pounds depending on trim and options, which dampens acceleration compared with lighter sports cars.
- Drivetrain: VR-4 versions use all-wheel drive and twin turbos, which enhances traction but adds mechanical complexity and potential maintenance needs.
- Transmission: manual transmissions generally deliver quicker times than automatics in this era, though both are viable with proper setup.
- Condition: turbo wear, timing components, cooling systems, and rust or chassis issues can affect performance and reliability today.
Prospective buyers or restorers should test drive and verify maintenance records, especially for turbocharged cars, to gauge whether the car meets expectations for speed and drivability.
Summary
The Dodge Stealth's speed depends heavily on the model. The twin-turbo VR-4 variant is fast for its era, delivering sub-5-second 0–60 times and quarter-miles in the low 13s, while the naturally aspirated models are noticeably slower but still capable. With aging examples, condition and maintenance are critical to realizing any stock performance, and aftermarket work can further alter acceleration. Overall, if speed is the goal, the Stealth's VR-4 remains the benchmark for the line's legacy performance.
