The Chrysler Town & Country III, specifically the 3.8 V6 (166 Hp) All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Automatic variant, represents a significant iteration in Chrysler’s long-running minivan lineage. Produced from 1996 to 2000, this version occupied a middle ground within the third generation (1996-2000) of the Town & Country, offering a blend of family practicality, available all-weather capability, and a reasonably powerful V6 engine. It was positioned as a step up from the base models, appealing to buyers who desired enhanced traction and a more refined driving experience without the expense of the top-tier trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chrysler |
| Model | Town & Country |
| Generation | Town & Country III |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 V6 (166 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 166 Hp @ 4300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 43.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 308 Nm @ 3100 rpm (227.17 lb.-ft. @ 3100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EGH |
| Engine displacement | 3778 cm3 (230.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt, 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt, 8.36 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 1950 kg (4299.01 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 671 l (23.7 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1764 l (62.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 76 l (20.08 US gal, 16.72 UK gal) |
| Length | 5070 mm (199.61 in.) |
| Width | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Height | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3030 mm (119.29 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 |
| Tires size | 215/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Town & Country variant is the 3.8-liter (3778 cc) EGH V6 engine. This engine, a member of Chrysler’s robust LA engine family, is a 90-degree V6 featuring a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved efficiency and power delivery. The engine produces 166 horsepower at 4300 rpm and 308 Nm (227 lb-ft) of torque at 3100 rpm. The 4-speed automatic transmission (typically the 42RE) was chosen for its smooth operation and suitability for family hauling. This transmission featured electronic control for optimized shift points and a torque converter lock-up function to improve fuel economy at highway speeds. The all-wheel-drive system employed a viscous coupling to transfer torque to the rear wheels when front wheel slippage was detected, providing enhanced traction in inclement weather.
Driving Characteristics
The 166 hp 3.8L V6, coupled with the automatic transmission and AWD system, delivered a competent, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and highway merging, but it wasn’t a particularly quick vehicle. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat sluggish compared to the available manual transmission options in other Town & Country trims. The AWD system added weight and slightly reduced fuel economy, but it provided a noticeable improvement in handling and stability, especially on slippery surfaces. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and comfortable cruising, prioritizing usability over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.8L AWD Automatic Town & Country typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, an AM/FM stereo with cassette player, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels within the range offered upgrades like leather seating, upgraded sound systems, power sliding doors, and alloy wheels. The specific features varied depending on optional packages selected by the original buyer. Common options included a rear entertainment system, sunroof, and upgraded interior trim.
Chassis & Braking
The Town & Country III utilized a front independent suspension with wishbone configuration and a rear rigid axle suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were drum brakes, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The steering was a hydraulic rack and pinion system, providing responsive and predictable handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Town & Country III for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available features. However, the 3.8L V6 with the automatic transmission was often seen as adequate but not exceptional in terms of performance. Compared to the higher-output 3.0L V6 found in some trims, the 3.8L offered less spirited acceleration. The 1.8L engine was not available in the US market. The 3.8L AWD model was often compared to competitors like the Dodge Caravan and Honda Odyssey, and it generally held its own in terms of features and value. Fuel economy was average for the class, and reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the automatic transmission over the long term.
Legacy
The Chrysler Town & Country III 3.8L V6 AWD Automatic remains a relatively common sight on used car lots today. The 3.8L engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of reliable service. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues with the automatic transmission, such as slipping or harsh shifting. The AWD system, while beneficial for traction, adds complexity and potential maintenance costs. Overall, this variant represents a solid and practical choice for families seeking a spacious and capable minivan, particularly in regions with inclement weather. Its blend of affordability, practicality, and available all-wheel drive continues to make it a popular option in the used car market.
