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What motor is in a 1987 Dodge Raider?

The 1987 Dodge Raider was a badge-engineered version of the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero, and its power came from Mitsubishi-supplied motors. In most configurations, it used a 2.6-liter inline-four (4G54); an optional 3.0-liter V6 (6G72) was available in certain markets or trims.


To understand the question more fully, the Dodge Raider was built for a brief window in the late 1980s as Dodge’s import-friendly SUV based on Mitsubishi’s Pajero. Engine options followed the Pajero lineage, with the smaller inline-four serving as the base powerplant and a larger V6 offered where markets or trims permitted.


Engine options


Below are the engine choices that appeared in the Raider lineup around that era. The availability of each option varied by market, trim level, and model year.



  • 2.6-liter inline-four engine (Mitsubishi 4G54)

  • 3.0-liter V6 engine (Mitsubishi 6G72)


In practice, the 2.6L inline-four was the more commonly found powerplant in many Raider configurations, with the 3.0L V6 appearing on specific markets or higher-spec trims.


Performance and notes


The 4G54-based 2.6L and the 6G72-based 3.0L V6 offered different power and torque characteristics, with the V6 providing broader mid-range capability. If you are evaluating a specific 1987 Raider, the exact engine may depend on the country of sale and the particular model year’s configuration.


Summary


In short, a 1987 Dodge Raider typically used a Mitsubishi 2.6-liter inline-four (4G54) as the standard engine, with an optional 3.0-liter V6 (6G72) available in certain markets or trims. Engine choice varied by market and model year, reflecting the Pajero-based origins of the Raider.

What size engine is in the Dodge Raider?


Dodge Raider
Dodge
Weight3100-3300 lbs
Transmission4-Speed Automatic, RWD/4WD 5-Speed Manual, RWD/4WD
Engine2.6L (156 cid) I4



What engine is in a 1988 Dodge Raider?


Later first-gen Pajeros/Monteros/Raiders could be purchased with an optional 6G72 V6 engine, but the 1987-1988 Raiders got the 2.6-liter Astron four-cylinder, rated at 109 horsepower.



How much is a 1987 Dodge W150 worth?


Typically, you can expect to pay around $15,633 for a 1987 Dodge W150 1/2 Ton in good condition with average spec.



Was the Dodge Raider a rebadged Mitsubishi?


From 1987-1989, the Dodge Raider was a rebadged Mitsubishi Montero. For 2005-2009, it was flipped. The Mitsubishi Raider was a rebadged Dodge Dakota. During the 5 year model run, less than 22K were sold.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.