The Chrysler LeBaron Coupe, specifically the 3.0i V6 variant producing 136 horsepower, was a mainstay of the Chrysler lineup from 1991 through 1995. Representing the final generation of the LeBaron, this coupe occupied a middle ground within the range, offering a step up in performance and refinement compared to the base four-cylinder models, while remaining more accessible than the higher-trim luxury versions. Built on the Chrysler JH platform, the LeBaron Coupe aimed to provide a stylish and comfortable personal coupe experience for the American market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | LeBaron |
| Generation | LeBaron Coupe |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 i V6 (136 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1991 |
| End of production | 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14 l/100 km (16.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 233 Nm @ 2400 rpm (171.85 lb.-ft. @ 2400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 6G72 |
| Engine displacement | 2972 cm3 (181.36 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 91.1 mm (3.59 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.1 l (9.62 US qt | 8.01 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 395 l (13.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4695 mm (184.84 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1300 mm (51.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2550 mm (100.39 in.) |
| Front track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Rear track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/70 R14 |
Introduction
The 1991-1995 Chrysler LeBaron Coupe with the 3.0-liter V6 engine represented a blend of American styling and Japanese engineering, a result of Chrysler’s partnership with Mitsubishi. This generation LeBaron aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a sporty, yet comfortable coupe. The 3.0i V6 trim was positioned as a mid-range offering, providing a noticeable performance boost over the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder models, without the added cost and complexity of the higher-end trims. It was a popular choice for those wanting a more engaging driving experience than the typical American coupe of the era.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this LeBaron variant is the 6G72 3.0-liter V6 engine. This engine, developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi, is a 60-degree V-engine featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with two valves per cylinder. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved efficiency and power delivery. The 6G72 is known for its relatively smooth operation and decent reliability. The 136 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque were considered adequate for the vehicle’s weight, providing reasonable acceleration. The engine was paired with a 5-speed manual transmission in this configuration, offering drivers more control over the power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0i V6 LeBaron Coupe offered a noticeable improvement in driving dynamics compared to the four-cylinder models. While not a sports car, the V6 provided sufficient power for confident highway merging and passing maneuvers. The 5-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, enhancing the driving experience. The gear ratios were fairly well-spaced, providing good acceleration in each gear. However, the LeBaron’s front-wheel-drive layout and relatively soft suspension tuning meant it wasn’t particularly adept at handling sharp corners. The steering, while hydraulically assisted, lacked significant feedback. Overall, the driving experience was geared towards comfort and ease of use rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0i V6 LeBaron Coupe typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM stereo, and cloth upholstery. Optional extras included a premium sound system, leather upholstery, a sunroof, and cruise control. The interior design was typical of early 1990s American cars, with a focus on practicality and comfort. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use, with clearly labeled controls. The seats were generally comfortable, providing adequate support for long drives. The trim level of the 3.0i V6 sat between the base models and the more luxurious LeBaron Highline, offering a good balance of features and affordability.
Chassis & Braking
The LeBaron Coupe utilized a front-wheel-drive chassis with independent coil spring suspension at all four corners. The front suspension featured MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link design. This setup provided a reasonably comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The ABS system helped maintain steering control during emergency stops. The tires were typically 195/70R14, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.0i V6 LeBaron Coupe received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and improved performance compared to the four-cylinder models. However, some critics noted its lack of sporty handling and somewhat bland interior styling. Compared to other coupes in its class, such as the Ford Probe and Mazda MX-6, the LeBaron offered a more comfortable ride and a more spacious interior, but lacked the same level of driving excitement. Fuel economy was respectable for the time, averaging around 28 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the electrical system.
Legacy
The Chrysler LeBaron Coupe, particularly the 3.0i V6 variant, has become a popular choice among collectors and enthusiasts of 1990s American cars. The 6G72 V6 engine is known for its durability and relatively simple maintenance requirements. Parts availability is generally good, making it relatively easy to keep these cars on the road. While not a high-performance vehicle, the LeBaron Coupe offers a unique blend of style, comfort, and affordability. Today, well-maintained examples are increasingly sought after by those looking for a nostalgic reminder of the early 1990s automotive landscape. The 3.0i V6 model represents a sweet spot in the LeBaron lineup, offering a good balance of performance and value.
