This rare 1991 Dodge Spirit R/T is a true "sleeper" and a legendary piece of Mopar history. Famously dubbed the "fastest sedan produced in America" at its debut, this car was engineered to embarrass high-end sports cars of the era while maintaining the unassuming profile of a family sedan.

I purchased this car on Bring a Trailer in April 2025 (Lot #187,769) and am now offering it for sale to a new enthusiast.

The Legend: Performance Highlights

Under the hood lies the heart of the R/T: the Turbo III 2.2-liter inline-four. This engine features a Lotus-designed 16-valve DOHC cylinder head and a Garrett turbocharger, delivering a factory-rated 224 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque.

• 0-60 MPH: 5.8 seconds (faster than a contemporary BMW M5 or Nissan 300ZX Turbo).
• Top Speed: 141 mph.
• Transmission: 5-speed manual transaxle with a Getrag-sourced gearset (the only transmission offered for the R/T).

Vehicle Details

• Exterior: Finished in Indy Red with R/T-specific monochromatic aerodynamic bodywork, including a color-keyed grille, side skirts, and a rear spoiler.
• Interior: Gray cloth sport bucket seats with the iconic striped gradient inserts.
• Mileage: Approximately 156,000 miles.
• Wheels: Original 15" alloy wheels with color-matched accents.
• Features: Power-adjustable driver’s seat, air conditioning, cruise control, trip computer, and four-wheel disc brakes.

Condition & History

This car was a long-term, original-owner vehicle prior to my purchase. It remains a highly original example of a very rare production run—only 1,208 Spirit R/Ts were produced in 1991.

• Mechanical: The Turbo III engine pulls strong, and the Getrag 5-speed shifts as it should.
• Exterior: The paint shows well for its age, though there is some expected wear and minor imperfections consistent with the mileage, as noted in the original BaT listing.
• Documentation: Includes manufacturer’s literature and records from previous ownership.

Why Buy This Car?

The Spirit R/T is the ultimate "if you know, you know" car. It is a staple of the RADwood era and continues to gain appreciation among collectors for its unique Lotus-Chrysler pedigree. Whether you're looking for a unique weekend cruiser or a historically significant addition to a Mopar collection, this Spirit R/T delivers performance that still surprises today.

Located in Santa Barbara, California.

Please feel free to ask any questions or request specific photos. Good luck bidding on this rare 90s icon!