Dodge Stratus

The Dodge Stratus (and its twins, the Chrysler Cirrus and Plymouth Breeze; collectively known as the "Cloud Cars") are midsize 4-door sedans introduced in 1995. They were based on the Chrysler JA platform. The Stratus, Breeze, and Cirrus were all on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 1996 and 1997.

First-generation (1995-2000)

The Dodge Stratus, the middle entry of the JA platform (with the Cirrus being the higher-end model and the Breeze being the lower-end model), was introduced in 1995 with two models: the SE, which came standard with the 2.0L straight-4 and had the 2.4L as optional, and the ES, which came standard with the 2.4L and had the optional 2.5L V6.

The cars had many parts that were interchangable between each model. The exteriors of these three cars were very similar, with the front fascia, rear bumper, taillights, and wheels being the main differences. The interiors had much more variation between the three models, when compared to their subtle exterior differences.

All three variants of the JA platform were available with most of the same standard features and available options, such as the following: a four-speed automatic transmission, anti-lock brakes, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, power windows, power door locks, power driver's seat, leather seats, power antenna, a six CD changer, sunroof, remote keyless entry, anti-theft system, etc. A five-speed manual was available with the 2.0 L engine.

A turbocharged version of the Stratus was sold in Mexico, with the 2.4L DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick. This car had 168 hp (125kW) at 5200 rpm and 216 ft·lbf of torque at 2200 rpm.

The Stratus was sold in Europe, with the 2.0L and the V6, as the Chrysler Stratus, although it retained the Dodge styling.

Specifications:

• Overall length: 187" (4.7 m)
• Curb weight: 3,181 lb (1,442 kg)
• Towing capacity: 2,000 lb (900 kg)
• Torque: 170 ft·lbf (230 N·m) at 4350 rpm