How much horsepower does a 1986 Dodge Omni have?
The 1986 Dodge Omni offered modest, era-typical horsepower for a compact from Chrysler: roughly 90 horsepower in standard form, with a turbocharged variant delivering considerably more power. Here’s a clear look at the available power outputs by engine configuration and trim.
Standard 2.2-liter inline-four
In 1986, the Omni’s base engine was Chrysler’s 2.2-liter inline-four. Power varied by fuel delivery and emissions equipment, with non-turbo models generally landing in the upper 80s to around 90 horsepower. To break it down, the two common configurations were:
- Carbureted 2.2L I4: approximately 87–90 horsepower
- Fuel-injected 2.2L I4 (federal emission version): about 92–93 horsepower
These figures reflect typical ratings for U.S.-market Omnis in 1986, with modest differences between carbureted and fuel-injected variants due to tuning and emissions controls.
Turbocharged performance: the GLH family
For enthusiasts, the Omni also spawned a turbocharged variant known as the GLH (Goes Like Hell). The turbocharged 2.2L engine delivered a substantial boost in power compared to the standard car:
- 1986 Dodge Omni GLH (turbo 2.2L): around 146 horsepower
- 1987–1988 Dodge Omni GLH-S (turbo 2.2L): roughly 170–175 horsepower
These turbo models represented a significant performance upgrade, leveraging forced induction to provide much stronger acceleration while remaining a compact, lightweight vehicle.
Context and caveats
Actual horsepower could vary slightly based on market (California vs. federal), transmission choice (manual vs. automatic), and specific model-year tuning. Conditions such as wear, maintenance, and fuel quality could also affect recorded horsepower. The figures above reflect widely cited, manufacturer-supported ratings for typical U.S.-market Omnis in 1986.
Summary
For the 1986 Dodge Omni, expect about 90 horsepower from the standard 2.2-liter inline-four. The turbocharged GLH variant raised power to roughly 146 horsepower in 1986, with the later GLH-S models in the 170–175 horsepower range. In short, the Omni offered modest base power with a notable performance option for enthusiasts.
