Engine Upgrade Delivers 230-HP and 250 LB-FT in Torque
What's the hottest new sub-$30,000 sport compact coming onto the market this fall? That's easy, but the answer might come as a shock to some. It's not a Honda, not a Mitsubishi or a Ford, no, it's a Dodge!
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| From the makers of the Viper SRT-10 comes 2004's ultimate compact car, the SRT-4. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
From the people who brought us the ultimate American supercar, the Viper SRT-10, comes what might be the ultimate compact car, the SRT-4. Engineered by DaimlerChrysler's Performance Vehicle Operations (PVO) team, the new Dodge packs more punch than initially expected, 15 additional ponies to be exact. Now instead of 215-hp, the same engine used in the PT Cruiser GT Turbo and 2003 SRT-4 that was only available in the U.S., the 2004 SRT-4 will deliver 230-hp at 5,300 rpm to the front wheels.
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| The PVO team was able to squeeze 15 additional horsepower from the engine, while increasing torque by 5 lb-ft. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler) |
What is even more significant is the PVO team didn't have to reduce torque to up the horsepower, important for acceleration. Rather it's up by 5 lb-ft to 250, available from 2,200 to 4,400 rpm, giving the Dodge SRT-4 the highest specific torque output of any compact car sold in Canada, excepting the premium priced Subaru WRX STi.
But of course you'll need to spend another $20,000 plus for the Subaru, as the Dodge comes well equipped with an MSRP of merely $26,950. The SRT-4 could very well represent the best bang for the buck in Canada.