How much horsepower does a 1984 Dodge Charger have?
The 1984 Dodge Charger had two main power options: a base 2.2‑liter inline-four that produced roughly 87–92 horsepower, and a turbocharged 2.2‑liter engine used in the Shelby Charger that delivered about 142 horsepower.
In 1984, Dodge’s Charger was part of Chrysler’s K‑car lineup, prioritizing efficiency over outright speed. The standard model relied on a lean-burn 2.2‑liter four, while the turbocharged variant—badged as Shelby Charger—packed substantially more power. There were no V8 options in the Charger lineup that year, and horsepower figures vary slightly by emission equipment, market, and whether ratings were SAE gross or SAE net in the publication.
Engine options and horsepower figures
The two engines and their horsepower figures are listed below for clarity:
- 2.2 L inline-four (non-turbo) — approximately 87–92 horsepower (SAE net, depending on year and emission configuration).
- 2.2 L turbocharged I4 (Shelby Charger) — approximately 142 horsepower (SAE net; exact figures can vary by boost setup and year).
In short, the Charger’s horsepower in 1984 depended on trim: around 90 hp for the base model and about 142 hp for the turbocharged Shelby Charger.
Notes on horsepower measurements
Horsepower figures from the era can differ based on whether manufacturers used SAE gross, SAE net, or regional testing standards, and turbocharged engines often reported higher numbers in some catalogs. For collectors or restorers, verify the specific rating on the vehicle’s documentation or the engine’s ECU/boost configuration to confirm the exact figure for a given car.
Context and historical impact
The 1984 Charger lineup reflected a market leaning toward fuel efficiency and city-car practicality rather than pure muscle. The base 2.2 L engine offered modest performance, while the Shelby‑tuned turbo version provided a notable jump in acceleration, appealing to buyers seeking sportier credentials within the K‑car family.
Summary
In 1984, the Dodge Charger offered about 90 hp in its standard form and around 142 hp in the turbocharged Shelby Charger variant, with no V8 options in the lineup. Horsepower figures can vary slightly by source and measurement method, so exact ratings may differ between catalogs and individual cars.
