1992 Dodge Stealth Base review from North America

Mass Airflow Sensor failed around 100,000 miles. Expensive part, but found workaround.

Constant Velocity Joint (CV) boot ruptured at unknown mileage, discovered during routine brake job, relatively inexpensive to fix ($125 + labor for entirely new axle).

Engine Controller (master computer) failed at 133,000 miles, VERY expensive part ($1475 parts + labor), no workaround yet, but I'll figure it out.

This is a truly great automobile! It is 10 years old. I have owned it for 3 years and have (so far) only had to spend money on a new set of tires a year ago (normal), a new axle (cheap), new brake pads (normal), and regular oil changes. In return, it has given me loads of fun and good gas mileage (average 25 mpg) for my daily 50-mile commute.

Even though it is the base model, it is well-appointed (Alpine CD player with wraparound stereo in a 1992 model!!). The front seats are very comfortable and adjustable (I'm 6ft, 185lbs).

This car goes like a bat out of hell, even without the turbo. On my way to work in the morning, there's a 4-way stop with a "Speed Limit 40" sign along the way, the sign being about 60 feet beyond where I stop. When I'm bored, I amuse myself by doing at least 50 when I pass the sign, and that isn't even "flooring it"...just a tap on the pedal.

Speaking of acceleration, I was driving up a very steep and winding hill one day when I noticed a 7-series BMW rapidly overtaking me in the next lane. I waited until his front bumper was about even with my rear bumper, then floored it. The Bimmer driver did the same, and never passed me until I finally slacked off at 110 and let him past (I decided that 110 was fast enough on a curvy road with a limit of 45).

Again, this car hauls major butt!

Best of all, I am 45, married, with a family (wife and 2 kids), living in suburban Connecticut, and this is the most Anti-SUV, Anti-Minivan...Anti-whatever you can think of. My wife calls it my "Mid-Life Crisis Car". I always ask her, "So, should I drive this car, or run off with a young Bimbo instead?".

Downside is lack of trunk space... just enough for a discreet weekend rendezvous with one's mistress (minimal baggage), and the rear seats are a joke... just big enough for a 2-year old, and they have to be folded down to carry so much as an actual suitcase. But who really cares? This vehicle was never meant to be practical.