The early 1990s was a thrilling era for automotive enthusiasts, and among the standout models that captured imaginations was the 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo. For someone deeply involved in the automotive scene, particularly at Super Street magazine, owning this car was more than just transportation—it was an immersive project.
Front view of a red 1991 Dodge Stealth RT Twin Turbo
Having previously driven front-wheel-drive, four-cylinder turbocharged Dodge models from 1992 to 1996, the transition to a 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo in the fall of 1996 marked a significant leap in performance. The Dodge Stealth had been an object of desire since its debut, boasting impressive specifications for its time: a twin-turbocharged engine, 300 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and an adjustable suspension. It’s widely known that the Stealth shared its platform with the Mitsubishi 3000GT, and both models were admired for their performance and striking design. Even today, decades later, the 1991 Dodge Stealth continues to turn heads with its timeless aesthetics.
Rear view of a red 1991 Dodge Stealth RT Twin Turbo showcasing its spoiler and taillights
The journey with this particular 1991 Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo began with a purchase from a used car dealership in Santa Monica. With 58,000 miles on the odometer and a price tag of $12,000, it seemed like a reasonable deal for a five-year-old performance vehicle with such advanced technology. However, a crucial detail was missed: the Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo requires a timing belt change around the 55,000-mile mark. Unbeknownst to the buyer, this maintenance had not been performed, leading to a catastrophic engine failure less than a week after the purchase when the timing belt snapped, causing pistons to collide with valves and severely damaging the engine’s top end.
1991 Dodge Stealth RT Twin Turbo driving on a mountain road in Colorado
Fortuitously, within that short week of ownership, a factory Dodge warranty was secured for the Stealth at a cost of $1,400. The advanced technology of the car had prompted this precautionary measure, and it proved to be a wise decision. The subsequent engine damage was covered under warranty, saving a substantial amount on what would have been extensive repair costs. The repair process at the Santa Monica Dodge dealership took approximately two months. During this time, beyond the engine rebuild, the clutch and suspension were also addressed. Upon return, the 1991 Dodge Stealth felt revitalized. While the warranty didn’t cover the clutch and suspension work, resulting in a $2,000 bill, it effectively averted an estimated $4,000 expense for engine repairs alone.
1991 Dodge Stealth RT Twin Turbo driving in snowy conditions with all-wheel drive
For the next two years, the Dodge Stealth served as a daily driver and a canvas for aftermarket enhancements, primarily utilizing upgrades from the HKS catalog. Working at Super Street magazine provided the perfect platform to document these modifications. A boost controller, blow-off valve, and other performance parts were added, enhancing the car’s already potent capabilities. However, the introduction of a nitrous kit eventually led to another engine issue. While sparingly used on the street, during a race event at Famoso Dragstrip in May 1998, the nitrous resulted in a blown piston ring.
Once again, the factory warranty came into play, necessitating another engine rebuild. This time, the repair duration extended to six months. By the time the Stealth was back, professional circumstances had changed, shifting from Super Street magazine to a consumer website with access to press cars. This transition, coupled with garage space considerations and insurance costs, made the 1991 Dodge Stealth somewhat redundant. Consequently, it was sold to an enthusiast from Santa Fe, New Mexico, who was captivated by its performance and striking aesthetics, especially after upgrades to 18-inch Enkei wheels and Toyo tires.
In retrospect, the Dodge Stealth R/T Twin Turbo from this era, along with its Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4 counterpart, remains a visually stunning example of 1990s supercars. However, their considerable weight (around 4,000 pounds) and the inherent complexities of their advanced technology meant that, as time progressed, the potential costs associated with maintaining these vehicles could become a significant concern, a prediction that ultimately proved accurate.
