1997 Dodge Intrepid Trims and Specs

There remains little difference between the two trims for the 1997 Dodge Intrepid. Apart from the standard engine and a few other power options, you get a lot of the nice ES features in the base Intrepid, which means you get comfort, style, power, and affordability all in one package.

New for the 1997 Dodge Intrepid STD base model is a Sports package that upgrades the standard 3.3-liter, 161-hp V6 to a 3.5-liter, 214-hp engine. It comes with an AutoStick transmission, leather trim on the steering wheel, and special sports badging. As in the ES, cruise control, fog lights, 16-inch wheels, power windows and locks, tachometer, power exterior heated mirrors, and center console are all standard.

High marks go to the driving performance of the Intrepid, able to handle a variety of conditions smoothly and accelerate quickly and quietly. A spacious trunk and passenger room are also highly valued by owners. Most drivers wish they didn't have to spend so much time in the repair shop, however.

The 1997 Dodge Intrepid ES is the top-of-the-line model of Intrepid, offering a faster engine, firmer suspension, and a few more luxuries than the base STD. Few changes were made between 1996 and 1997. Standard features include the powerful 3.5-liter, 214-hp V6 engine, power windows and locks, fog lights, 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, tilt windows, dual front airbags, and center console.

Standard features unique to the ES include keyless entry, lighted entry, power-adjustable driver's seat, ABS brakes, and leather steering wheel trim. Options include leather seating, anti-theft system, an adjustable frong passenger seat, overhead console, and automatic climate control. The 1997 Intrepid is loved for its sporty look, yet practical interior, good gas mileage for a vehicle its size, and huge trunk capacity. Major complaints, as always, focus on costly repairs.