What engine was in the Dodge Omni?
The Dodge Omni’s original engine was a 1.7-liter inline-four known as the Slant-4. Over its run, Mopar expanded the lineup to include a 2.2-liter inline-four, plus turbocharged versions for performance models like the GLH and GLHS.
Context: The Omni, launched in 1977 as part of Chrysler’s K-car family, used a small-displacement engine strategy designed for fuel economy and light weight, with the powertrain evolving to include bigger displacement and turbocharging in later years.
Core engine lineup
These are the main engines that powered the Omni across its production, showing the progression from base to more capable powertrains.
- 1.7 L inline-4 Slant-4 — the base engine in early Omnis.
- 2.2 L inline-4 — a larger, more modern engine that became common on later Omnis and other K-cars.
- 2.2 L Turbo inline-4 — turbocharged version used on performance-oriented Omnis (and Horizon/Daytona lines) such as the GLH/GLHS.
In practice, the 1.7 L Slant-4 provided the entry-level power, while the 2.2 L offered improved torque and fuel efficiency, with the turbo variant delivering higher performance in sportier trims.
Performance-focused variants
For enthusiasts, Chrysler and its partner Shelby introduced high-performance variants that used the turbocharged 2.2 L engine.
- Omni GLH (Goes Like Hell) — turbo 2.2 L with performance-oriented tuning.
- Shelby Omni GLHS (Goes Like Hell Shelby) — a limited, higher-performance version with turbocharged 2.2 L and additional enhancements.
These models highlighted Mopar’s approach to balancing economical small cars with accessible sportiness through forced induction.
Notable engine details
The core takeaway is that the Omni began with a humble 1.7 L Slant-4, then expanded to a 2.2 L inline-4, and later leveraged turbocharging to create distinct performance variants, a pattern that echoed across the K-car family.
Summary
From a practical, city-friendly first engine to turbocharged performance variants, the Dodge Omni’s engine history reflects Chrysler’s early adoption of small-displacement, efficient powertrains with sport-oriented options that remain a hallmark of the K-car era.
Why is the Dodge Demon illegal?
The Dodge Demon is not illegal for street use, but it was initially banned from many drag races by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) because it was too fast to meet safety regulations. Cars running a quarter-mile in under 10 seconds, like the Demon, were required to have a roll cage and other safety equipment that the car did not come with from the factory, reports this Facebook video and MotorBiscuit, says this Facebook video.
This video explains why the Dodge Demon was banned from the NHRA: 1mLeif Johnson FordYouTube · Apr 6, 2023
- Safety regulations: The NHRA banned the stock Demon because its quarter-mile time of under 10 seconds meant it was too fast to be in its production car class without safety upgrades.
- Required equipment: Vehicles running under 10 seconds require additional safety equipment, such as a certified roll cage, window nets, and other safety restraints, notes the NHRA.
- Factory vs. aftermarket: Since these safety features were not installed at the factory, the stock Demon was not compliant with NHRA rules.
- Updated rules: The NHRA has since updated its rules, which allows cars like the Demon to race if they are modified to meet the new standards.
- Street legal: Despite the drag racing ban, the Dodge Demon is a fully street-legal car, and owners can make the necessary modifications to compete in sanctioned races.
How much is a 1990 Dodge Omni worth?
The value of a used 1990 Dodge Omni ranges from $523 to $2,087, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
What type of engine is in the Omni car?
The Maruti Omni has 1 Petrol Engine, 1 CNG Engine and 1 LPG Engine on offer. The Petrol engine is 796 cc, the CNG engine is 796 cc while the LPG engine is 796 cc . It is available with Manual transmission. Depending upon the variant and fuel type the Omni has a mileage of 14 to 19.7 kmpl.
Did the Dodge Omni have a VW engine?
The Omni 024 used the same chassis and engine options as the Omni but had unique bodywork and front end styling. The base engine was a 1.7 L Volkswagen inline four producing 70 hp (52 kW), with a 2.2 L, 84 hp (63 kW) Chrysler inline four as an option beginning in 1981.
