How much HP can a Dodge Dart make?
The Dodge Dart’s factory horsepower tops out at about 184 horsepower, with a typical range of 160–184 hp depending on the engine and trim. This reflects the final generation produced between 2013 and 2016.
What follows is a detailed look at the stock horsepower figures for the available Dart engines and a briefing on the potential for increasing horsepower through common modification routes. The Dart lineup used three main engine configurations during its 2013–2016 run, with the 2.4L engine delivering the highest factory output.
Stock horsepower options
Before the list, a quick breakdown of the primary factory engines and their horsepower ratings in the Dart’s final generation.
- 2.0L Tigershark I4 — 160 hp
- 1.4L Turbo MultiAir II — 160 hp
- 2.4L Tigershark I4 — 184 hp
These figures reflect the common factory specifications across 2013–2016 Dodge Dart trims in most markets. Variations can occur based on model year and transmission choice.
2.0L Tigershark I4
The 2.0L Tigershark engine is the base powerplant for the Dart, generating around 160 horsepower in most trims and paired with either a manual or automatic transmission. It emphasizes efficiency and smooth performance for daily driving.
1.4L Turbo MultiAir II
The 1.4L Turbo MultiAir II option delivers about 160 horsepower, with turbocharged torque aimed at providing stronger midrange performance in the Dart GT and related trims. This engine prioritizes a balance of efficiency and peppy acceleration.
2.4L Tigershark I4
The 2.4L Tigershark is the strongest factory option for the Dart, producing about 184 horsepower and offering improved acceleration for higher trims and certain performance-oriented variants during the model’s run.
Performance potential beyond stock
Before the list, note that enthusiasts consider aftermarket routes to push horsepower beyond factory levels. Options include forced induction, tuning, and other upgrades. Results vary and may affect reliability, warranty, and emissions compliance.
- Turbocharging or supercharging the existing engine platforms with reputable kits or swaps
- ECU remapping, intake, and exhaust improvements to extract more power from stock hardware
- Engine swaps or crate engines as more extensive upgrades, often requiring professional installation
Concluding: While it is possible to significantly raise horsepower beyond factory figures, such builds demand careful planning, skilled installation, and consideration of legality, insurance, and long-term reliability.
Summary
The Dodge Dart offers a most powerful factory output of 184 hp from the 2.4L Tigershark engine, with 160 hp options available from the 2.0L and 1.4L turbo variants. For those seeking more power, aftermarket approaches exist but come with trade-offs. The Dart was discontinued after the 2016 model year, so prospective buyers and builders rely on used-car knowledge and aftermarket support rather than new factory options.
How much horsepower does a Dodge Dart have?
A Dodge Dart has between 160 and 184 horsepower (hp), depending on the specific engine and trim level. The base engines produce 160 hp, while the more powerful 2.4-liter "Tigershark" engine generates 184 hp.
- 160 hp: This output is found in the 2.0-liter I-4 and 1.4-liter turbocharged engines.
- 184 hp: This is the horsepower for the larger 2.4-liter "Tigershark" inline-four engine, which was available in models like the Dart GT and SXT trims.
Is there a turbo Dodge Dart?
The Dart Aero, Rallye, SXT, and Limited models are the only models available with the 1.4 L MultiAir turbocharged I4 engine.
Are Dodge Darts fast?
No, modern Dodge Darts are not fast, but their performance varies by engine. The base models with the 2.0L engine are considered slow, while the 1.4L turbocharged and 2.4L engines offer average or slightly above-average acceleration for their class. Models with the 2.4L engine, in particular, have adequate power for daily driving, reaching 0-60 mph in around 8.3 to 8.4 seconds.
Performance by engine
- 2.0L engine: Considered slow, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.9 seconds.
- 1.4L turbocharged engine: Achieves an average 0-60 mph time of 8.2 seconds and feels peppy despite its 160 horsepower.
- 2.4L engine: This engine provides the most power, reaching 0-60 mph in around 8.3-8.4 seconds. While not quick by sports car standards, it is suitable for most driving situations.
Other factors
- Transmission: The manual transmission is often preferred by reviewers for its performance feel, though the automatic is a viable option.
- Handling: The Dart is praised for its nimble handling, especially around corners, and its stable, well-planted feel.
- Older models: The "Dodge Dart" is also a name used for older models from the 1960s and 70s, which could be very fast with available big-block engines. The modern versions are a different vehicle with more modest performance.
Is there a V8 Dodge Dart?
The Dart GTS came standard with the 340 cu in (5.6 L) V8. A 300 hp (220 kW) 383 cu in (6.3 L) big-block was optional.
