The Dodge Spirit 2.5, equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-four engine producing 102 horsepower and paired with a three-speed automatic transmission, was a mainstay of the Dodge lineup from 1988 through 1995. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range offering within the Spirit family, it represented a practical and affordable option for American families seeking a spacious sedan. The Spirit, along with its Chrysler siblings (the LeBaron and New Yorker), was built on the Chrysler JH platform, a design that aimed to modernize the company’s mid-size offerings and compete with imports gaining popularity in the US market. This variant specifically targeted buyers prioritizing comfort and ease of use over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dodge |
| Model | Spirit |
| Generation | Spirit |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (102 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1988 |
| End of production | 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14 l/100 km (16.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 40.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 183 Nm @ 2800 rpm (134.97 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 2501 cm3 (152.62 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87.5 mm (3.44 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 104 mm (4.09 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1245 kg (2744.76 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 410 l (14.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4602 mm (181.18 in.) |
| Width | 1731 mm (68.15 in.) |
| Height | 1358 mm (53.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2629 mm (103.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1463 mm (57.6 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1453 mm (57.2 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Spirit 2.5 Automatic is the Chrysler 2.5L inline-four cylinder engine, internally designated as the 528 engine family. This engine, a descendant of earlier Chrysler designs, featured a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head. It utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, providing a more efficient fuel delivery compared to carbureted systems. The overhead camshaft (OHC) design, with two valves per cylinder, was relatively simple but reliable. The 9:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the fuel quality available at the time. Paired with this engine was the Chrysler A727 three-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while not known for its sophistication, was durable and provided smooth, if not particularly quick, shifts. The automatic transmission was a key selling point for buyers seeking a comfortable and convenient driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 102 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque produced by the 2.5L engine, when channeled through the three-speed automatic, resulted in adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was typically in the 11-12 second range. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and smooth cruising rather than rapid acceleration. Compared to the available 150 horsepower 3.0L V6 engine, the 2.5L automatic felt noticeably slower, particularly when merging onto highways or climbing hills. However, the 2.5L offered a more relaxed driving experience, with less engine noise and vibration. The automatic transmission eliminated the need for manual gear changes, making it ideal for city driving and commuting.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Spirit 2.5 Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power steering, a basic AM/FM radio, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the LE, added features like upgraded sound systems, power windows and locks, and a more luxurious interior trim. Optional extras included a sunroof, cruise control, and alloy wheels. The interior design was functional and straightforward, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The dashboard layout was simple and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Spirit 2.5 Automatic featured a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent double wishbone suspension in the front and a solid axle suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride, but handling was not particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were available as an option, enhancing safety. The steering was hydraulic power steering, making it easy to maneuver at low speeds. The 185/70 R14 tires provided a reasonable balance of ride comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dodge Spirit 2.5 Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family sedan. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy (around 20-25 mpg in mixed driving). However, it was often criticized for its lack of performance and somewhat dated styling. Compared to the V6-powered Spirit models, the 2.5L automatic offered significantly less power and acceleration. However, it was more fuel-efficient and less expensive to purchase. Against competitors like the Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Lumina, the Spirit offered a comparable level of features and value.
Legacy
The Dodge Spirit 2.5 Automatic, while not a particularly groundbreaking vehicle, served as a reliable and affordable transportation option for many American families during the 1990s. The 2.5L engine and A727 automatic transmission proved to be relatively durable, and many examples are still on the road today. However, age and mileage have taken their toll, and finding well-maintained examples can be challenging. Common issues include oil leaks, transmission slippage, and corrosion. In the used car market, the Spirit 2.5 Automatic remains an inexpensive option for those seeking a basic and dependable sedan, but it is unlikely to appeal to enthusiasts seeking performance or modern features.
