How much horsepower does a 1991 Dodge Spirit RT have?
The 1991 Dodge Spirit RT delivers about 224 horsepower.
In its debut year, the Spirit R/T used a turbocharged 2.2-liter inline-four engine that produced roughly 224 horsepower and around 260 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the higher-performance options in Dodge’s K-car lineup of the era.
Powertrain snapshot
Here are the core powertrain specifications that defined the 1991 Spirit R/T’s performance.
- Engine: 2.2-liter turbocharged inline-four with intercooler
- Power: 224 horsepower
- Torque: approximately 260 lb-ft
- Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
- Transmissions: 5-speed manual or automatic option
These specifications reflect the model’s status as the performance-oriented variant of the Spirit, offering a significant boost over the standard non-turbo models while staying true to the compact, front-driver layout of the era.
Context and how it compared
The Spirit R/T arrived as Chrysler’s answer to the late-1980s/early-1990s market for affordable, reasonably quick coupes built on the K-car platform. The 224-horsepower figure came from the turbocharged 2.2-liter engine that paired forced induction with an intercooler to extract performance without moving up to a larger, heavier engine. In the broader Dodge lineup, this engine family was shared with several other compact performance models of the time, which helped keep parts availability and service practical for owners.
Notes on variation and measurement
Horsepower figures for the era can vary slightly depending on the testing standard (SAE net vs. older gross ratings) and market specifications. While most contemporary sources cite around 224 horsepower for the 1991 Spirit R/T, some listings and road tests may show numbers in the low- to mid-220s. Torque is commonly cited around 260 lb-ft, contributing to the car’s brisk acceleration for its class.
Historical significance
As a performance-oriented variant of the Spirit, the R/T badge signaled Chrysler’s commitment to delivering sportier options within the budget-conscious K-car family. While not a high-performance icon in the same league as true sports coupes, the Spirit R/T helped demonstrate that compact platforms could be tuned for spirited driving with turbocharged power without sacrificing everyday practicality.
Summary
For the 1991 Dodge Spirit RT, the key horsepower figure is 224 hp, delivered by a turbocharged 2.2-liter inline-four with intercooler.Paired with front-wheel drive and a choice of manual or automatic transmission, this setup gave the Spirit R/T its notable performance edge within its segment for the time. The model remains a recognizable example of early-1990s turbocharged efficiency and affordable hot-hatchroom styling.
How much horsepower does a Dodge Spirit RT have?
The Dodge Spirit R/T. In Car and Driver's testing, the 224-horsepower R/T delivered a zero-to-60 time faster than that of a Nissan 300ZX Turbo: 5.8 seconds. That wasn't enough for one owner, apparently, as this Spirit R/T now puts out 275 horsepower–an increase of more than 50 horses over stock.
What was the fastest sedan in 1991?
Dodge Spirit R/T
The Dodge Spirit R/T is a Performance Icon
The Spirit R/T's powertrain packed a 224-horsepower, 2.2-liter, 16-valve DOHC turbocharged four-cylinder engine under the hood. That was good for a zero-to-60 time of under six seconds and a top speed of 142 mph.
How much horsepower does a 1991 Spirit RT have?
224 hp
In 1991, Chrysler introduced the Spirit R/T, featuring a version of the 2.2 L engine with a 16-valve DOHC head designed by Lotus, who won a design competition against Maserati and Hans Hermann. Fed by a Garrett intercooled turbocharger, the Turbo III engine produced 224 hp (167 kW; 227 PS) and 217 lb⋅ft (294 N⋅m).
How much is a 1991 Dodge Spirit worth?
The value of a used 1991 Dodge Spirit ranges from $790 to $4,966, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
