Class:
Compact Sports Coupe / Hatchback
Segment:
Economy/Performance-oriented import competitor
Key Competitors:
Honda Prelude, Toyota Celica, Mazda MX-6, Ford Probe, Nissan 240SX
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eagle Talon (Chrysler's Diamond-Star Motors joint venture)
Styling:
Aerodynamic 'cab-forward' design, pop-up headlights
Performance Options:
Available turbocharged engines and all-wheel-drive on certain trims
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition, exhaust, engine management, manual and automatic transmissions, drivetrain, axles
Chassis:
Steering, suspension, brakes, wheels, tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, charging system, starting system, body control modules
Body:
Body structure, interior trim, exterior panels, doors, windows, HVAC system, climate control
Maintenance:
Oil change, fluid checks, filter replacement, tune-ups, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component service
Diagnostics:
Electrical system diagnostics, fuel injection system testing, emissions system diagnosis
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, with detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures
Engine 1 Base:
2.0L 4G63 SOHC 16-valve I4 (Naturally Aspirated)
Engine 1 Displacement:
1997 cc
Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 88.0 mm
Engine 1 Compression Ratio:
8.0:1
Engine 1 Horsepower Net:
135 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 1 Torque Net:
125 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Engine 1 Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine 1 Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with distributor
Engine 1 Oil Capacity:
4.0 Quarts (3.8 L) with filter
Engine 1 Recommended Oil:
API SG, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30
Engine 2 Base:
2.0L 4G63T DOHC 16-valve Turbocharged I4
Engine 2 Displacement:
1997 cc
Engine 2 Compression Ratio:
8.5:1
Engine 2 Horsepower Net:
190 hp @ 6000 rpm (1989-1991), 195 hp @ 6000 rpm (1992-1994)
Engine 2 Torque Net:
203 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (1989-1991), 203 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (1992-1994)
Engine 2 Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Turbocharger
Engine 2 Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with distributor, knock sensor
Engine 2 Oil Capacity:
4.5 Quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Engine 2 Recommended Oil:
API SG, SAE 5W-30
Engine 2 Turbo Model:
Mitsubishi TD04-9B
Engine 2 Turbo Boost Pressure:
14.7 psi (1.0 bar) advertised
Transmission Type Base:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic (with lock-up torque converter)
AWD Availability:
Available on Turbo models (Viscous coupling limited-slip center differential)
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Chrysler ATF+3 (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
Not rated or data unavailable for this era
ABS:
Optional on non-turbo, standard on some later turbo models
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard from 1990 onwards; Passenger airbag optional/standard on later models
Seat Belts:
3-point front, 2-point rear (later models with 3-point rear)
Child Seat Anchors:
No LATCH system; likely standard seatbelt restraint for child seats
Oil Change Interval Petrol:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Turbocharged engines recommend more frequent changes.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on plug type (copper vs. platinum).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for 4G63/4G63T engines. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage (interference engine).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Mopar/Chrysler HOAT or similar) - 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 7.0 Quarts (6.6 L)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF +3 (or equivalent Dexron II/III compatible fluid)
Turbo Seals:
Turbocharger oil seals can degrade over time, leading to oil consumption and smoke.
Cv Joints:
Front Constant Velocity (CV) joints can wear out, especially on AWD models, leading to clicking noises during turns.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion and degradation of electrical connectors, especially in the engine bay and under the dashboard, can cause intermittent issues.
Cooling System Leaks:
Radiator, hoses, and heater core are prone to leaks with age.
Oxygen Sensor Failure:
Oxygen sensors often fail with age, affecting fuel economy and emissions.
Timing Belt Tensioner:
The timing belt tensioner and idler pulley should be replaced concurrently with the timing belt due to potential failure.
Plymouth Heritage:
Plymouth, a division of Chrysler Corporation, known for affordable, dependable vehicles; diversified into sportier models in the late 80s/early 90s.
First Generation:
1989-1994
Facelift Updates:
Minor styling updates for 1992 model year (grille, headlights, wheels).
Manufacturing Location:
Normal, Illinois, USA (Diamond-Star Motors plant)
Production End Year:
1994
Automotive Journal Awards:
While not winning major 'Car of the Year' awards, the platform was recognized for its value and sporty offerings in the compact segment.
Performance Reviews:
Praised for its available turbocharged power and sharp handling, particularly the AWD models.
Emissions Compliance:
Designed to meet EPA and California emissions standards of the era.
