🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chrysler

Model:

Conquest

Year:

1988

Model Code:

Chrysler Conquest (based on Mitsubishi Starion platform)

Trim Level:

Import Model (likely implying RWD, Turbocharged variants)

Chassis Code:

MS

Engine Code Prefix:

G63B

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Chrysler Conquest was positioned as a sporty, affordable rear-wheel-drive coupe, competing in the burgeoning Japanese sports car market of the 1980s.

Target Audience:

Appealed to buyers seeking performance and style at a competitive price point, often compared to other turbocharged coupes of the era.

Key Competitors:

Mitsubishi Starion (its sibling), Nissan 300ZX (Z31), Toyota Supra (MkII/MkIII), Mazda RX-7 (FC).

Performance Orientation:

Emphasis on turbocharged power, handling, and a driver-focused cockpit.

Styling:

Aggressive, angular styling with pop-up headlights and flared fenders characteristic of 1980s sports coupes.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1988 Chrysler Conquest (Import Model)

Engine Options Covered:

2.6L Turbocharged (G63B) and potentially naturally aspirated variants.

Transmission Options Covered:

Manual and Automatic transmissions.

Market Focus:

North American market (Chrysler badging).

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 200-250 pages (typical for a 1980s owner's manual).

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Operation:

Detailed explanation of engine controls, turbocharger operation, fuel delivery, ignition system, and cooling.

Drivetrain:

Information on rear-wheel drive system, manual and automatic transmission operation, clutch, and differentials.

Suspension Steering:

Description of independent front and rear suspension, power steering system.

Brakes:

Details on disc brake systems (likely front vented), parking brake, and hydraulic system.

Electrical System:

Explanation of battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuses, and basic dashboard indicators.

Climate Control:

Operation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.

Interior Features:

Operation of seats, seatbelts, windows, locks, and interior trim components.

Exterior Features:

Operation of doors, hood, trunk, mirrors, and exterior lighting.

Startup Shutdown:

Proper procedures for starting and shutting down the engine.

Fluid Checks:

Guidance on checking and topping off engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid.

Tire Maintenance:

Recommendations for tire inflation pressures and basic tire care.

Wiper Washer Operation:

Instructions for using windshield wipers and washer system.

Headlight Operation:

Details on operating headlights, high beams, and auxiliary lighting.

Fuse Replacement:

Guidance on locating and replacing blown fuses.

Bulb Replacement:

Basic instructions for replacing exterior and interior light bulbs.

Emergency Procedures:

Information on what to do in case of overheating, brake failure, or other emergencies.

Depth:

Designed for the owner, covering operation, basic maintenance, and driver awareness. Not a full service or repair manual.

Diagnostic Focus:

Focuses on understanding dashboard warning lights and basic troubleshooting steps for common owner-related issues.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Availability:

Likely only available in printed format; digital scans may exist but not official.

Original Print Quality:

Standard for the era, typically black and white line drawings and text.

Binding:

Stapled or saddle-stitched booklet

Paper Stock:

Standard paper stock, designed for durability in a glove compartment.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-Cylinder, Turbocharged and Intercooled

Engine Displacement:

2555 cc (2.6 Liters)

Engine Code:

G63B

Horsepower Turbo:

Approximately 170-190 hp (depending on specific market and tune, e.g., 170 hp for early US spec).

Torque Turbo:

Approximately 200-230 lb-ft (depending on specific market and tune).

Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:

If applicable, likely around 120-130 hp for a 2.0L or 2.6L non-turbo variant.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Turbocharging and Intercooler.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Premium recommended for turbocharged models).

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 12 valves (4 valves per cylinder for turbo, though G63B is generally 8-valve SOHC)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic Transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, single dry plate

Drivetrain Layout:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 172-176 inches (4369-4470 mm)

Width:

Approx. 69 inches (1753 mm)

Height:

Approx. 50 inches (1270 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 99 inches (2515 mm)

Seating Capacity:

2+2 configuration (two primary front seats, two small rear seats)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2800-3000 lbs (1270-1360 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings 1988:

Vehicle specific ratings from 1988 are difficult to ascertain without original documentation; generally, vehicles of this era had limited frontal crash testing by modern standards.

Braking System:

Front ventilated disc brakes, rear disc brakes. ABS was not a common feature on this model.

Suspension Handling:

Independent front and rear suspension designed for sporty handling. MacPherson struts front, multi-link rear on some variants.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts for front occupants, lap belts for rear passengers.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and roof structure for the coupe body style.

Lighting:

Halogen headlamps, front and rear turn signals, brake lights, and parking lamps.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo radio, often with cassette player. Speaker configuration typically front door and rear quarter panel.

Antilock Brakes:

ABS was not standard or widely available on this model; most models would not have it.

Modern Connectivity:

None. This vehicle predates modern infotainment and connectivity features.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Check every 7,500 miles, replace as needed, typically every 15,000-30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 miles for standard plugs; platinum could be longer, but original spec likely for standard.

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 24,000 miles or 24 months.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for ambient temperature specific recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5-5.0 quarts (4.3-4.7 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Prestone or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or equivalent.

Turbo Charger:

Turbocharger can be prone to wear or failure if not properly maintained (e.g., oil changes). Heat soak can also be an issue.

Fuel Injection System:

Early EFI systems can develop issues with sensors, fuel pumps, or injectors, especially with age and mileage.

Rust Corrosion:

As with many cars of this era, rust and corrosion, particularly in wheel wells, rocker panels, and chassis components, can be a significant issue if not addressed.

Electrical Gremlins:

Aging wiring harnesses, grounds, and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical problems.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers are common wear items that can affect handling and ride quality.

📚 Vehicle History

Chrysler Context:

Chrysler licensed and rebadged vehicles from Mitsubishi during the 1980s to expand its product line with competitive models, especially in the sporty and import segments.

Platform Origin:

Based on the Mitsubishi Starion/Chrysler Conquest platform, which itself evolved from the earlier Mitsubishi Sapporo. The Starion/Conquest featured a distinct rear-wheel-drive layout and turbocharged engine options.

Generation Changes:

The 1988 model year represents a late iteration of the first-generation Starion/Conquest, with minor styling updates and potential refinements over earlier models.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan (produced by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation)

Production Years:

The Chrysler Conquest was sold in North America from 1983 to 1989.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Contemporary Reviews:

Often praised for its performance-to-price ratio and aggressive styling by automotive journalists of the era.

Automotive Press Sentiment:

Generally received positive reviews for its turbocharged performance and handling, though sometimes criticized for its interior refinement compared to Japanese rivals.

Safety Certifications:

Compliant with all U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) applicable at the time of manufacture.