1986-1992 Plymouth Sundance 2.5 i Turbo (152 Hp)

The Plymouth Sundance 2.5i Turbo, produced between 1986 and 1992, represented a performance-oriented variant within the compact Plymouth Sundance lineup. Falling within the first generation of the Sundance (introduced in 1983 and lasting through 1991), the 2.5i Turbo was positioned as the top-tier offering, aimed at buyers seeking a more spirited driving experience than the base models provided. The Sundance itself was Plymouth’s entry into the burgeoning compact car market, designed to compete with offerings from Chevrolet, Ford, and Japanese manufacturers. The 2.5i Turbo distinguished itself with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, offering a significant power boost over the naturally aspirated engines available in other Sundance trims.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of the Sundance 2.5i Turbo was the 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, internally designated with codes like the 2.5L Turbo II, was a significant upgrade over the standard 2.2-liter and 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engines offered in other Sundance models. The engine featured a turbocharger, boosting power output to 152 horsepower and 244 Nm (179.97 lb-ft) of torque. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, contributing to improved efficiency and responsiveness. The engine utilized a single overhead camshaft (OHC) design, operating with two valves per cylinder. The 7.8:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and reliability, necessary for use with the available fuel grades of the time. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual, although an optional three-speed automatic transmission was also available, albeit at the cost of some performance.

Driving Characteristics

The 2.5i Turbo offered a noticeably more engaging driving experience compared to the base Sundance models. The turbocharger provided a surge of power in the mid-range, making overtaking and merging onto highways considerably easier. While not a sports car, the 2.5i Turbo delivered respectable acceleration for its time. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to fully exploit the engine’s powerband, while the optional automatic, though convenient, resulted in some power loss. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, although it was susceptible to torque steer under hard acceleration. The suspension, tuned for comfort, offered a reasonably smooth ride, but could feel somewhat soft during aggressive cornering.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The 2.5i Turbo typically came with a more comprehensive list of standard features than lower-trim Sundance models. These often included features like upgraded interior upholstery (typically cloth, with optional leather available), a more sophisticated sound system, power windows and locks, and cruise control. Air conditioning was a common option. The dashboard featured a more detailed instrument cluster, including a boost gauge to monitor turbocharger performance. Exterior features often included alloy wheels and a rear spoiler, enhancing the vehicle’s sporty appearance. The Sundance was offered in both 3-door hatchback and 5-door hatchback configurations, with the Turbo trim available in both body styles.

Chassis & Braking

The Sundance 2.5i Turbo utilized a relatively simple chassis design, featuring coil spring suspension at all four corners. The front suspension incorporated a MacPherson strut design, while the rear suspension used a twist-beam setup. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was available as an option, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. Steering was provided by a rack-and-pinion system with hydraulic power assistance, offering responsive and relatively light steering feel. The standard tire size was 185/70 R14.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Sundance 2.5i Turbo was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance and value. It was seen as a compelling alternative to more expensive European and Japanese imports. Compared to the base Sundance models, the Turbo offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The 2.5i Turbo was often compared to other turbocharged compact cars of the era, such as the Ford Escort GT and the Chevrolet Beretta GT. Fuel economy was reasonable for a turbocharged vehicle, but not exceptional. Reliability was generally good, although the turbocharger did add a layer of complexity to the engine, potentially increasing maintenance costs over the long term.

Legacy

The Plymouth Sundance 2.5i Turbo, while not a legendary performance car, holds a special place in the hearts of many enthusiasts. It represented a relatively affordable and accessible way to experience turbocharged power in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Today, well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly rare and sought after by collectors. The 2.5-liter turbo engine, while not without its quirks, proved to be reasonably durable, and many examples are still on the road today. The Sundance 2.5i Turbo serves as a reminder of a time when American manufacturers were experimenting with turbocharging technology to offer more exciting and engaging driving experiences.