The Chrysler Town & Country II, specifically the 3.3L V6 variant paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, represented a significant offering in the American minivan market from 1991 to 1995. Positioned as a mid-range option within the second generation of the Town & Country, this configuration balanced affordability with a reasonable level of performance and family-oriented features. It was built on the Chrysler’s NS platform, sharing many components with the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager. This generation marked a shift towards more aerodynamic styling and improved interior space compared to its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Town & Country |
| Generation | Town & Country II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.3 V6 (152 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1991 |
| End of production | 1995 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp, 84.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 139.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 152 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 46 Hp/l |
| Torque | 251 Nm @ 3600 rpm (185.13 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EGA |
| Engine displacement | 3301 cm3 (201.44 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1798 kg (3963.91 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 76 l (20.08 US gal | 16.72 UK gal) |
| Length | 4897 mm (192.8 in.) |
| Width | 1829 mm (72.01 in.) |
| Height | 1646 mm (64.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3030 mm (119.29 in.) |
| Front track | 1521 mm (59.88 in.) |
| Rear track | 1577 mm (62.09 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.39 |
| Minimum turning circle | 13.1 m (42.98 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion Engine |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/70 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Town & Country II variant was the Chrysler 3.3L EGA V6 engine. This engine, a member of Chrysler’s LA engine family, featured a 60-degree V-angle and a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. It utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved efficiency and responsiveness. The engine produced 152 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 251 Nm (185 lb-ft) of torque at 3600 rpm. The four-speed automatic transmission, a Chrysler-built Torqueflite A727 derivative, was chosen for its durability and smooth operation, prioritizing comfort over outright performance. This transmission featured a torque converter and traditional planetary gearsets.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.3L V6 and automatic transmission combination delivered adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was sufficient for everyday driving and highway merging, but the van wasn’t designed for sporty driving. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and smooth shifts, rather than aggressive acceleration. Compared to the available 3.8L V6 option, the 3.3L felt noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. Manual transmission versions, while less common, offered a more engaging driving experience and slightly improved fuel economy. The relatively high curb weight of nearly 4,000 pounds further contributed to the van’s relaxed driving demeanor.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.3L Town & Country II typically included features such as air conditioning, AM/FM stereo, cloth upholstery, and power steering. Optional extras included upgraded sound systems, rear air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a roof rack. Interior trim levels varied, with some models offering higher-quality cloth or even leather upholstery. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over stylistic flair. The van’s spacious interior was a key selling point, offering comfortable seating for up to seven passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The Town & Country II utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent wishbone suspension in the front and a solid axle suspension in the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride, but handling was not particularly sharp. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were drums. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was available as an option, enhancing safety in emergency braking situations. Steering was provided by a hydraulic power rack and pinion system, offering reasonable steering feel and maneuverability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.3L Town & Country II was generally well-received by consumers seeking an affordable and practical minivan. Critics noted its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy. However, the 3.3L engine was often criticized for being underpowered, especially when compared to the more potent 3.8L V6. The 3.8L version offered significantly more horsepower and torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and improved towing capacity. In terms of reliability, the 3.3L engine proved to be generally dependable, although routine maintenance was essential to prevent issues such as oil leaks and cooling system problems. Fuel economy averaged around 19 mpg combined, which was competitive for the time.
Legacy
Today, the Chrysler Town & Country II 3.3L V6 Automatic is a relatively common sight in the used car market. While not a collector’s item, it remains a viable option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious and practical minivan. The 3.3L engine, while not known for its performance, has proven to be reasonably durable with proper maintenance. Common issues include aging cooling system components and potential oil leaks. Parts availability is generally good, thanks to the widespread use of Chrysler LA engine components. This variant represents a solid, if unspectacular, entry point into the second-generation Town & Country family, offering a blend of affordability, practicality, and reliability.
