Overview of the Chrysler Conquest
The Chrysler Conquest is a performance-oriented coupe built from the early 1980s through the late 1980s, sharing its platform and many components with the Mitsubishi Starion. Offered as a competitor to sporty domestic and imported coupes, it emphasized responsive handling and available turbocharged power. This evergreen profile explains Chrysler Conquest specifications, core engineering, trim levels, and how it fits into the Chrysler performance lineage for buyers and enthusiasts evaluating reliability, value, and driving dynamics.
Platform, Body, and Chassis Architecture
Shared Engineering with Mitsubishi
The Conquest is based on the Mitsubishi Starion platform, borrowing its chassis, suspension, and major mechanicals. This relationship enabled Chrysler to deliver a modern, well-handling sports coupe using proven Japanese engineering. The car features a longitudinally mounted four-cylinder engine with a manual or automatic transmission driving the front wheels, paired with a sport-tuned suspension and relatively lightweight body-in-white for its class.
- Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
- MacPherson struts with anti-roll bars front and rear
- rack-and-pinion steering and ventilated disc brakes front
Engine Options and Performance Figures
Naturally Aspirated and Turbocharged Four-Cylinder
Power comes from a line of Mitsubishi-derived four-cylinder engines, with both carbureted and fuel-injected variants available. A turbocharged option significantly increases output and delivers strong mid-range punch for the era. Below is a consolidated specification table summarizing factory engine offerings and verified performance data.
| Engine / Trim | Displacement and Aspiration | Verified Power Range | Drivetrain and 0–60 mph | Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carbureted non-turbo | 2.6 L inline-4 | 95–102 hp | FWD; approximately 9–10.5 seconds | Early-to-mid 1980s |
| Fuel-injected non-turbo | 2.6 L inline-4 | 110–112 hp | FWD; approximately 8.7–9.5 seconds | Mid 1980s |
| Turbo | 2.6 L inline-4 turbo | 143–155 hp | FWD; approximately 7.3–8.1 seconds | Mid-to-late 1980s |
Note: Exact outputs vary by market year and emissions configuration; 0–60 mph times are approximate and influenced to transmission and condition.
Drivetrain, Fuel Economy, and Real-World Use
Transmission and Drivetrain Choices
The Conquest typically pairs its four-cylinder engines with a five-speed manual transmission as standard, with a three-speed automatic optional. The manual delivers responsive shifts and better fuel efficiency, while the automatic provides convenience without drastic trade-offs in performance. Suspension design emphasizes balanced weight distribution and predictable turn-in, making it a driver’s coupe relative to its class. Fuel economy ranges roughly 22–28 MPG combined depending on engine and turbo usage, with highway efficiency benefiting from an aerodynamic body and low rolling resistance.
Trim Levels, Features, and Market Positioning
Trim Differentiation and Value
Conquest models are commonly grouped by trim, with variations in wheels, exterior cladding, audio, and convenience features rather than dramatic performance splits. Higher tranches may include larger wheels, sport seats, upgraded suspension components, and digital instrumentation. Compared with contemporaries like the Chevrolet Cavalier GTU, Dodge Daytona Turbo, and Mazda RX-7, the Conquest offers a blend of reliability and turbocharged performance, often at a more accessible price point than European competitors. It positions itself as a practical sports coupe with everyday usability and a small performance edge.
- Base and mid-level trims emphasize value-oriented features
- Turbo trims focus on increased power and sport tuning
- Optional leather, power windows, and upgraded infotainment vary by year
Common Issues and Long-Term Ownership
Reliability, Maintenance, and Known Weak Points
As a derivative of the Starion, the Conquest benefits from straightforward mechanics, but like any turbocharged car it requires attentive maintenance. Key areas to monitor include the turbocharger wastegate actuator, intercooler piping, and boost leaks, which can affect power and efficiency over time. Routine intervals for oil and filter changes with appropriate viscosity are important for turbo longevity. Other common items include wheel bearing wear, suspension bushings, and vacuum-related components affecting brake boost and climate functions. Owners who keep up with service intervals often report strong durability and satisfying daily driving dynamics.
Buying Considerations and Value Today
Market Demand, Prices, and Collectibility
In the current used market, Chrysler Conquest values are generally modest, with price ranges varying by condition, mileage, and turbo presence. Well-maintained turbocharged examples typically command a premium over base models, reflecting performance utility and relative scarcity. Collectibility is niche but steady among enthusiasts who appreciate Japanese-influenced Chrysler performance and can source shared parts from the Starion platform. For buyers, the Conquest represents a blend of engaging dynamics, available power, and reasonable running costs when compared with similar-era sport coupes.