Was the Dodge Stealth made in Japan?
The Dodge Stealth, a sleek and sporty car from the 1990s, has an interesting origin story that often surprises car enthusiasts. While it carried the Dodge badge, its production and design were deeply tied to Japan. In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Dodge Stealth and uncover its Japanese roots.
The Collaboration Between Dodge and Mitsubishi
The Dodge Stealth was the result of a collaboration between Chrysler (Dodge's parent company) and Mitsubishi Motors. This partnership was part of a broader joint venture known as Diamond-Star Motors, which aimed to produce vehicles that combined the strengths of both companies. The Stealth was essentially a rebadged version of the Mitsubishi GTO, also known as the Mitsubishi 3000GT in some markets.
Manufactured in Japan
Despite its Dodge branding, the Stealth was manufactured in Japan at Mitsubishi's Nagoya plant. This facility was responsible for producing the Mitsubishi GTO, and since the Stealth shared the same platform, design, and engineering, it was built alongside its Mitsubishi counterpart. The car was then exported to the United States and other markets under the Dodge name.
Key Features of the Dodge Stealth
The Dodge Stealth was known for its advanced features and performance capabilities, which were cutting-edge for its time. Here are some highlights:
- Available in multiple trims, including a high-performance R/T Twin Turbo model.
- Equipped with a 3.0L V6 engine, with the Twin Turbo version producing up to 300 horsepower.
- Offered advanced technologies such as all-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, and active aerodynamics in the higher trims.
- Shared the same sleek, aerodynamic design as the Mitsubishi GTO, with minor styling differences to reflect Dodge's branding.
Why the Dodge Stealth Was Made in Japan
The decision to manufacture the Dodge Stealth in Japan was primarily driven by cost efficiency and the expertise of Mitsubishi in producing high-performance sports cars. By leveraging Mitsubishi's existing production facilities and engineering, Chrysler was able to offer a competitive sports car without the need to build a new manufacturing infrastructure.
Conclusion
Yes, the Dodge Stealth was indeed made in Japan, despite its American branding. This fascinating collaboration between Dodge and Mitsubishi resulted in a car that combined Japanese engineering with Dodge's market presence. The Stealth remains a beloved vehicle among enthusiasts, celebrated for its performance, design, and unique place in automotive history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dodge Stealth just a 3000GT?
First and foremost, the Dodge Stealth and the Mitsubishi 3000GT are essentially the same car underneath. They were born out of a partnership between Chrysler and Mitsubishi Motors - a sort of automotive bromance that brought us this fascinating example of badge engineering.
Is the Dodge Stealth a JDM car?
The styling differences between the Stealth and 3000GT were due to Chrysler's input in the design of the Stealth's styling but not its engineering. Both cars were built simultaneously at the Nagoya Mitsubishi plant in Japan.
Was the Dodge Stealth sold in Japan?
The Dodge Stealth was introduced in 1990 as a 1991 model. Production continued through 1996. The Stealth was essentially the American twin of the Mitsubishi 3000GT. The two cars were the result of a collaboration between Chrysler and Mitsubishi, and they were produced side by side in Japan.
Where was the Dodge Stealth built?
Japan
Mitsubishi 3000GT
| Mitsubishi 3000GT (Z15A/Z16A) | |
|---|---|
| Also called | Mitsubishi GTO (Japan) Dodge Stealth |
| Production | 1990–2000 (Mitsubishi 3000GT/GTO) 1990–1996 (Dodge Stealth) |
| Assembly | Japan: Okazaki, Aichi (Nagoya Plant) |
| Designer | Masaru Suzuki (1987) |
What was the first Japanese car sold in the US?
The Toyopet Crown
Toyota continued to grow and they decided to expand their business overseas and in 1957 Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A Inc. was established. The U.S.A Toyota headquarters started selling their vehicles in Hollywood, CA. The Toyopet Crown was the first ever Japanese car sold in the United States and with this, the era began.
Where were Dodge Stealths made?
By the mid-'80s, Mitsubishi wanted to bring their vehicles to America as Mitsubishi cars with their own dealerships and network, so production began in 1988 under the Diamond Star Motors partnership in the U.S. A new plant was built in Normal, Illinois, to facilitate production of both Mitsubishi and Chrysler versions ...
Why did Dodge discontinue the Stealth?
The decision, confirmed by a Chrysler spokesman today, was attributed to slow sales of the high-performance luxury car, along with a feeling among Chrysler executives that Dodge no longer needed the image boost the Mitsubishi-built Stealth brought it in 1990.
Are Dodge stealths rare?
It is arguably the rarest Dodge that saw the light of day in the 1990s. Dodge rolled the twin-turbocharged Stealth in Firestorm Red, Galaxy White Pearl, Orchid Pearl, Symphonic Silver, and Olive Pearl Green. Only 17 were white, and this is one of them.
What does JDM stand for?
Japanese domestic market
JDM stands for Japanese domestic market and refers to Japan's home market for vehicles and parts. Strictly speaking, only cars that are made specifically for the Japanese market fall under this term.
Where was the Dodge Stealth manufactured?
Japan
Mitsubishi 3000GT
| Mitsubishi 3000GT (Z15A/Z16A) | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mitsubishi Motors |
| Also called | Mitsubishi GTO (Japan) Dodge Stealth |
| Production | 1990–2000 (Mitsubishi GTO) 1990–1996 (Dodge Stealth) |
| Assembly | Japan: Okazaki, Aichi (Nagoya Plant) |
