Plymouth Laser RS Turbo 2.0 Turbo AWD
The Plymouth Laser RS Turbo AWD is the forgotten sibling in one of the most successful joint-venture partnerships in automotive history. Built alongside the Mitsubishi Eclipse and Eagle Talon at the Diamond Star Motors plant in Normal, Illinois, the Laser shared its platform, engines, and most of its bodywork with its sisters, distinguished primarily by a unique front fascia and the Plymouth badge.
The RS Turbo AWD represented the top of the Laser lineup and was mechanically identical to the Eclipse GSX and Eagle Talon TSi AWD. Its heart was Mitsubishi's 4G63 turbocharged 2.0-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine, one of the most celebrated performance engines of its era. Producing 190 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque in stock form, the 4G63 was also famously amenable to modification — enthusiasts routinely extracted 300, 400, or even 500+ horsepower with aftermarket turbochargers and supporting modifications.
The AWD system used a viscous coupling center differential to distribute power between the front and rear axles, providing exceptional traction in all conditions. Combined with the turbocharged engine and five-speed manual transmission, the AWD system gave the Laser RS Turbo genuine rally-car credentials. The independent multi-link rear suspension provided excellent handling, and the four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated fronts, solid rears) offered good stopping power.
The Laser's low, wide stance and wedge-shaped profile gave it an aggressive appearance that was perfectly in tune with the early 1990s aesthetic. The pop-up headlights (available on earlier models) and wide body added to the visual drama.
Despite being virtually identical to the Eclipse and Talon in specification, the Laser suffered from Plymouth's declining brand image throughout the early 1990s. Sales were lower than the Eclipse, and Plymouth discontinued the Laser after 1994 while the Eclipse continued for two more generations.
Today, the Laser RS Turbo AWD occupies an interesting niche in the collector market. It is functionally identical to the highly sought-after Eclipse GSX and Talon TSi AWD but typically commands lower prices due to the Plymouth badge and lower brand recognition. For enthusiasts who care about driving experience over brand prestige, the Laser represents exceptional value.
The 4G63 turbo engine is robust but inspect thoroughly for boost leaks, turbo shaft play, and cracked exhaust manifolds. The timing belt is critical (interference engine) — verify recent replacement with documentation. Check the AWD system: transfer case condition, center differential engagement, and rear differential for leaks or noise. The 5-speed transmission's second gear synchro is a known weakness. Many Lasers have been heavily modified — inspect wiring, fuel system, and turbo installation quality if modified. Rust affects the rear quarter panels, rocker panels, and hatch area. Unmodified, low-mileage examples are extremely rare and command a premium.
The Laser was built at Diamond Star Motors in Normal, Illinois — a 50/50 joint venture between Chrysler and Mitsubishi. All three DSM cars (Eclipse, Laser, Talon) were mechanically identical in their respective trim levels. The Laser was sold through Plymouth dealers. The AWD version was available only with the turbo engine and manual transmission. Plymouth discontinued the Laser after 1994; the Eclipse and Talon continued through 1999.