Fully searchable text for quick access to information.
Interactivity:
Hyperlinked sections, indexed content, potentially embedded videos or animations for complex procedures.
Print Quality
Readability:
High-resolution diagrams, clear schematics, and easily legible text optimized for screen viewing and potential printing.
Binding Type
Digital Binding:
N/A (Electronic format)
Paper Type
Digital Paper Simulation:
N/A (Electronic format, but designed for clarity like high-quality paper)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Option 1 Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1996 cc)
Engine Option 1 Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder (I4)
Engine Option 1 Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC), 16 Valves
Engine Option 1 Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Option 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 132 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine Option 1 Torque:
Approx. 129 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Engine Option 2 Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2499 cc)
Engine Option 2 Configuration:
V-type 6-cylinder (V6)
Engine Option 2 Valvetrain:
Single Overhead Camshaft (SOHC), 24 Valves
Engine Option 2 Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Option 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 164 hp @ 5800 rpm
Engine Option 2 Torque:
Approx. 170 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Performance
0 To 60 Mph Approx:
8-10 seconds (depending on engine and transmission)
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity Approx:
15.1 US gallons (57.2 L)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
4-speed Automatic (42LE)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
N/A for this convertible model in 1997, only automatic was prevalent.
Features
Automatic Transmission Type:
Hydraulically controlled automatic transmission.
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (Chrysler spec)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Approx:
187.8 inches (4770 mm)
Width Approx:
70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height Approx:
53.7 inches (1364 mm)
Wheelbase Approx:
106.0 inches (2692 mm)
Front Track Approx:
60.4 inches (1534 mm)
Rear Track Approx:
59.7 inches (1516 mm)
Interior
Seating Capacity:
4 passengers
Cargo
Trunk Volume Approx Convertible Top Up:
Approx. 4.5 cubic feet (127 L)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx 2.0L:
Approx. 3200 lbs (1451 kg)
Curb Weight Approx 2.5L V6:
Approx. 3400 lbs (1542 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approx:
Approx. 4200 lbs (1905 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Driver Side Front Impact:
Likely 3-star or 4-star (ratings vary by year and testing protocols)
NHTSA Passenger Side Front Impact:
Likely 3-star or 4-star (ratings vary by year and testing protocols)
IIHS Offset Frontal Impact:
Acceptable to Marginal (common for vehicles of this era)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most trims.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for front and rear passengers.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and potential pop-up rollover hoops (check specific VIN).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player, and premium sound systems.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Connectivity
Cellular Integration:
N/A (No factory integration for cellular phones)
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (4,800 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 - 15,000 miles (19,000 - 24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs; longer for platinum/iridium.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) or as specified by severe duty conditions.
Coolant Flush Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API Service SG or higher)
Coolant Type:
Chrysler Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, typically green)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF+3 (Chrysler spec)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Engine 2.0L Issues:
Potential for head gasket leaks, timing belt service is critical.
Engine 2.5L V6 Issues:
Can suffer from oil sludge if maintenance is neglected, though generally more robust.
Convertible Top Mechanism:
Hydraulic lines can leak, motors can fail, fabric top can degrade over time.
Electrical System:
Corrosion on connectors, issues with power windows and door locks.
Suspension Components:
Wear on ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts is common with age.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Chrysler Heritage:
Chrysler has a long history of producing stylish and often innovative vehicles, with a focus on comfortable and upscale offerings.
Model Evolution
Sebrings Stratus Lineage:
The Sebring and Stratus nameplates were part of Chrysler's 'cab-forward' design era, sharing platforms and powertrains. The convertible versions were popular for their distinctive styling and drop-top experience.
1997 Model Year Updates:
For 1997, the Sebring Convertible and Stratus Convertible were largely carried over from their introduction, with minor refinements. The introduction of the 2.5L V6 improved performance significantly.
Production
Platform Production Years:
JA/J platform production spanned from 1995 to 2000.
Manufacturing Location:
Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Automotive Press Awards:
Received positive reviews from automotive press for styling and value upon introduction, though less prominent than some competitors in later years.