The Evolution of the Chrysler Conquest: An Icon of 1980s Performance

The Chrysler Conquest is a name that resonates with enthusiasts of 1980s performance cars, representing an era of innovation, speed, and distinctive styling. A sibling of the Mitsubishi Starion, the Chrysler Conquest has become a cult classic, particularly among fans of turbocharged models. This article delves into the evolution of this fascinating vehicle, highlighting the years produced, models, and trim levels that defined its presence in the automotive landscape.

Origins and Early Years (1983-1986)

The Chrysler Conquest made its debut in 1983 as part of Chrysler’s push into the growing sport compact market. The vehicle was essentially a rebranded version of the Mitsubishi Starion, which was successively developed in Japan. Chrysler had formed a joint venture with Mitsubishi, known as Diamond Star Motors (DSM), to manufacture and distribute compact cars in North America, making the Conquest a strategic element in their lineup.

The initial model years (1983-1986) saw the introduction of two primary trim levels:

1983-1984 Chrysler Conquest TSi

The 1983 model was equipped with a 2.6-liter, turbocharged inline-four engine, producing approximately 175 horsepower. This power was paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic. The TSi trim featured 15-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, and a host of creature comforts, setting the tone for performance and style.

1985-1986 Chrysler Conquest TSi

By 1985, Chrysler upgraded the Conquest’s performance options, with the TSi trim getting a boost in horsepower to about 197 hp, thanks to enhancements to its turbocharging system. Other upgrades included increased wheel sizes and improved braking systems. The interior saw improvements as well, featuring upgraded materials and a more ergonomic layout.

Conquest’s Competition

Key competitors included the Toyota Supra, Mazda RX-7, and Nissan 300ZX, vehicles that defined the competition in the performance space during the mid-1980s. The Conquest offered comparable performance at a more accessible price, drawing in a segment of performance enthusiasts keen on value.

Midlife Adjustments (1987-1989)

With the arrival of the late 1980s, Chrysler made minor adjustments to the Conquest line while carrying the core features that enthusiasts loved.

1987 Chrysler Conquest TSi

For the 1987 model year, the Conquest TSi saw minimal changes but continued to uphold its reputation for combining turbocharged power with sporty handling. Chrysler’s dedication to maintaining competitive performance remained strong in this era.

1988 Chrysler Conquest TSi

In 1988, the Conquest continued producing approximately 197 hp, but new features and options were introduced, including improved audio systems and better trim materials. Although the fundamental lineup remained mostly unchanged, Chrysler enhanced its technology and equipment offerings, ensuring the Conquest competed well against its rivals.

1989 Chrysler Conquest TSi

By 1989, the Conquest was approaching its end of production. Enthusiasts noted that Chrysler began rolling out special editions as the 80s came to a close, allowing buyers to differentiate their vehicles with unique paint schemes and interior accents. However, the overall changes were minimal as the decision to discontinue family was already underway.

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The End of an Era: 1990-1992

By the 1990 model year, Chrysler had decided to end production of the Conquest, officially marking the end of an era that helped elevate the brand’s performance credentials in the sport compact market. The last generation saw the final updates with the following notable editions:

1990 Chrysler Conquest TSi

This version was essentially a continuation of the previous year’s model. Still equipped with the 2.6-liter turbocharged engine, it carried over the stylish aesthetics and performance features of earlier trims, but with little innovation.

1991-1992 Chrysler Conquest TSi

The final years saw Chrysler announcing their decision to phase out the Conquest altogether. Production ended in 1992, marking the conclusion of a distinctive chapter of American automotive lore. Fewer units were sold each year as the automotive landscape shifted towards more fuel-efficient models, leaving the performance-passionate audience to reminisce about what the Conquest stood for.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Though the last Chrysler Conquest rolled off production lines in 1992, its impact continued long after its departure. The Conquest became an icon in the street racing scene and drew considerable interest among tuners and modifiers. Its turbocharged engine and rear-wheel-drive layout made it an ideal platform for upgrades—both performance and aesthetic—and many units were further enhanced into formidable racing machines.

Enthusiasts have kept the Conquest community alive through clubs and online forums, where discussions about tuning, racing, and restoration remain active. The car’s unique styling, characterized by its sharp lines and aggressive stance, made it a favorite for automotive photographers and film productions, encapsulating the essence of 1980s performance culture.

Furthermore, the Chrysler Conquest incited a wave of nostalgia in the automotive realm. With its rich history and unique lineage, it became a source of inspiration for modern performance vehicles, with its turbocharged concept paving the way for contemporary engineering trends.

Conclusion

The Chrysler Conquest remains a captivating subject of discussion and admiration among car enthusiasts. Produced from 1983 to 1992, it exemplified Chrysler’s ambition to blend performance with practicality. The TSi trim levels were celebrated for offering agile handling, turbocharged power, and distinctive styling—making the Conquest a memorable entry in the annals of American automotive history.

While production is long since over, the Chrysler Conquest still ignites passion and excitement among car lovers. As the automotive landscape changes with technological advancements, the legacy of the Conquest endures, standing as a testament to 1980s performance engineering and design compromise.