What year did the Dodge Shadow come out?
The Dodge Shadow first appeared as the 1987 model-year Dodge Shadow, marking Chrysler's continuation of its K-car era in a compact front-wheel-drive package.
Origins and Debut
The Shadow was introduced by Dodge as part of Chrysler’s strategy to modernize its front-wheel-drive lineup in the late 1980s. It shared its underpinnings with the Plymouth Sundance and was built on the K-car platform that underpinned a range of affordable family cars during that era. The official debut for the Shadow occurred with the 1987 model year, signaling Chrysler’s push to offer practical, value-focused transportation.
Platform and Design Philosophy
Rooted in the K-car philosophy, the Shadow emphasized interior practicality, cost efficiency, and fuel economy. Its styling was deliberately conservative, prioritizing space and usability over high-performance appeal, in line with Chrysler’s strategy to deliver affordable, dependable cars to a broad audience.
Specs and Variants at Launch
At its launch, the Dodge Shadow offered a straightforward powertrain lineup typical of the era: a base 2.2-liter inline-four engine with available options and transmissions designed for everyday reliability. Over time, some models offered a larger 2.5-liter engine upgrade, with a mix of manual and automatic transmissions. The Shadow was primarily marketed in practical hatchback and sedan configurations designed for efficient daily driving.
Production Timeline and Impact
Following its 1987 introduction, the Shadow remained part of Dodge’s compact lineup as Chrysler refined its front-wheel-drive strategy through the early 1990s. The model saw typical mid-cycle updates and gradual improvements as the automaker transitioned toward newer compact platforms, reflecting broader industry shifts of the period.
Legacy in Chrysler's Lineup
While not a performance icon, the Shadow played a meaningful role in sustaining Chrysler’s market share during a challenging era. It embodied the manufacturer’s emphasis on affordable, practical transportation and contributed to the era’s push toward efficient front-wheel-drive designs that defined late-1980s and early-1990s American cars.
Summary
In short, the Dodge Shadow debuted in 1987 as part of Chrysler’s K-car family, sharing its platform with the Plymouth Sundance. It represented a strategic emphasis on economical, front-wheel-drive family cars and remained part of Dodge’s lineup through the early-to-mid 1990s as the brand evolved its compact offerings.
How much horsepower does a 1992 Dodge Shadow have?
How fast is the 1992 Dodge Shadow? The 1992 Shadow ranges in power from the America Hatchback 2D with 93 horsepower to the ES Hatchback 2D with 141 horsepower.
When were Dodge Shadows made?
| Dodge Shadow | |
|---|---|
| Production | August 1986 – March 1994 |
| Model years | 1987–1994 |
| Assembly | United States: Sterling Heights, Michigan (Sterling Heights Assembly) Mexico: Toluca, Mexico State (Toluca Car Assembly) |
| Body and chassis |
How much horsepower does a Dodge Shadow 3.0 v6 have?
141-horsepower
Oddly, however, it gets you where you're going very quickly, thanks to the optional 3-liter, 141-horsepower, V-6 engine. The V-6 delivers 21 m.p.g. city/29 highway teamed with an optional four-speed automatic transmission.
How much is a 1994 Dodge Shadow worth?
The value of a used 1994 Dodge Shadow ranges from $793 to $3,768, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.
