1995 Plymouth Acclaim Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs
The 1995 Plymouth Acclaim was a mid-size, four-door sedan, representing the final model year of its production run (1989-1995). Built on Chrysler's AA-body platform, it shared DNA with the Dodge Spirit. Key trims typically included a Base model and an LX variant. New, prices ranged from approximately $12,000 to $17,000. The Acclaim stood out for its practicality, affordability, and spacious interior for its class, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious families and fleet sales.
The Good
Key advantages of the 1995 Plymouth Acclaim included its impressive affordability and practical, spacious interior. It offered decent fuel efficiency, especially with the 4-cylinder engine, and a comfortable, compliant ride. For practical buyers, it was a high-value used car with straightforward mechanics. Emotionally, it represented accessible, no-frills transportation, a dependable "workhorse" for many families.
The Bad
Known weaknesses for the 1995 Plymouth Acclaim included its often-dated exterior design and sometimes lackluster performance from the base engine. Owners frequently reported issues with the automatic transmissions (especially the 4-speed Ultradrive), electrical system glitches, and susceptibility to rust in colder climates. Build quality could be inconsistent, leading to various rattles and squeaks over time.
1995 Plymouth Acclaim: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1995 Plymouth Acclaim offered two primary engine choices:
- Standard: 2.5-liter SOHC 4-cylinder engine.
- Optional: 3.0-liter SOHC V6 engine (Mitsubishi-designed).
- Horsepower:
- 2.5L I4: Approximately 100-104 hp.
- 3.0L V6: Approximately 141 hp.
- Fuel Economy (EPA estimates):
- 2.5L I4: Roughly 20-22 MPG city / 28-30 MPG highway.
- 3.0L V6: Roughly 18-20 MPG city / 24-26 MPG highway.
- 0-60 MPH Times:
- 2.5L I4: Around 11-12 seconds, varying with transmission.
- 3.0L V6: Approximately 9-10 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: The Acclaim was not primarily designed for towing, but typically rated for light duty, generally around 1,000 lbs if properly equipped, which was rare for this model.
- Trim-Level Features: The 1995 Acclaim was largely consolidated into a few key trims, often referred to as Base and LX.
- Base Model: Featured essentials such as manual windows and door locks, an AM/FM radio, power steering, and front disc/rear drum brakes. Interior was basic cloth upholstery. Air conditioning was typically optional.
- LX Trim (often the top tier): Included more comfort and convenience features. This usually meant power windows and door locks, cruise control, a tilt steering column, an upgraded AM/FM cassette stereo, and perhaps a slightly more refined interior fabric. The V6 engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission were often standard or easily optioned. Optional features for the LX could include anti-lock brakes (ABS), alloy wheels, power driver's seat, and premium audio systems.
1995 Plymouth Acclaim Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1995 |
| Make | Plymouth |
| Model | Acclaim |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | - |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | - |
| Engine Size | - |
| Engine Cylinders | - |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1995 Plymouth Acclaim Have?
The 1995 Plymouth Acclaim, while a practical vehicle, was known for several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns. A primary issue revolved around the automatic transmissions, particularly the A604 "Ultradrive" 4-speed unit that was common with the V6 engine. This transmission was infamous for premature failures, erratic shifting, and expensive repair costs. The older A413 3-speed automatic, often paired with the 4-cylinder engine, tended to be more robust but still required diligent maintenance.
Electrical problems were also common, including failing power window motors, intermittent gauge cluster operation, and issues with the wiring harnesses degrading over time. Air conditioning systems were prone to leaks and compressor failures, leading to costly repairs.
Rust was a significant concern for the Acclaim, especially in regions exposed to road salt. Wheel wells, rocker panels, and lower body sections were particularly susceptible. Engine oil leaks, notably from valve cover gaskets and oil pans, were also often reported, though usually manageable.
Suspension components, such as bushings and ball joints, would wear out, leading to loose steering and ride quality degradation. Brake systems, particularly front rotors, were known to warp, requiring frequent replacement.
Regarding recalls for the 1995 model year, specific details can be found via NHTSA databases. General recalls for this platform (Chrysler AA-body) often addressed potential issues with seat belt buckles, cruise control units, or certain electrical components that could pose fire risks. Owners should always check a specific vehicle's VIN for any open recalls.
Overall, long-term reliability for the Acclaim was considered average to below average compared to contemporary Japanese rivals. While the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine itself could be quite durable, the associated transmission and common accessory failures often limited the vehicle's overall lifespan without significant investment in repairs.
Electrical problems were also common, including failing power window motors, intermittent gauge cluster operation, and issues with the wiring harnesses degrading over time. Air conditioning systems were prone to leaks and compressor failures, leading to costly repairs.
Rust was a significant concern for the Acclaim, especially in regions exposed to road salt. Wheel wells, rocker panels, and lower body sections were particularly susceptible. Engine oil leaks, notably from valve cover gaskets and oil pans, were also often reported, though usually manageable.
Suspension components, such as bushings and ball joints, would wear out, leading to loose steering and ride quality degradation. Brake systems, particularly front rotors, were known to warp, requiring frequent replacement.
Regarding recalls for the 1995 model year, specific details can be found via NHTSA databases. General recalls for this platform (Chrysler AA-body) often addressed potential issues with seat belt buckles, cruise control units, or certain electrical components that could pose fire risks. Owners should always check a specific vehicle's VIN for any open recalls.
Overall, long-term reliability for the Acclaim was considered average to below average compared to contemporary Japanese rivals. While the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine itself could be quite durable, the associated transmission and common accessory failures often limited the vehicle's overall lifespan without significant investment in repairs.
How long will the 1995 Plymouth Acclaim last?
Based on owner data and maintenance habits, a well-cared-for 1995 Plymouth Acclaim could realistically achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles, or approximately 10 to 15 years of service. However, many examples fell short due to expensive repairs, particularly transmission issues, which often rendered the car uneconomical to fix. The 2.5L 4-cylinder engine generally proved to be a durable component, capable of extended service if regularly maintained.
Long-term durability was hampered by the notorious A604 "Ultradrive" 4-speed automatic transmission, which was a frequent point of failure. Rust, especially in salt-exposed climates, and various electrical gremlins also limited the vehicle's lifespan. Suspension components like bushings and ball joints would inevitably require replacement. While a simple design aided basic repairs, systemic issues in certain areas impacted overall longevity and perceived reliability over time.
Long-term durability was hampered by the notorious A604 "Ultradrive" 4-speed automatic transmission, which was a frequent point of failure. Rust, especially in salt-exposed climates, and various electrical gremlins also limited the vehicle's lifespan. Suspension components like bushings and ball joints would inevitably require replacement. While a simple design aided basic repairs, systemic issues in certain areas impacted overall longevity and perceived reliability over time.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1995 Plymouth Acclaim, typical for its era, featured very rudimentary built-in technology by today's standards. For entertainment, standard offerings included an AM/FM stereo, with an optional cassette player. Higher trim levels might have offered a multi-speaker sound system or a basic graphic equalizer.
Driver-assistance features were virtually nonexistent compared to modern vehicles. The most advanced "assistance" would have been an optional cruise control system, primarily available on LX trims, allowing the driver to maintain a set speed on highways. There were no advanced features like traction control, stability control, blind-spot monitoring, or even remote keyless entry as standard equipment on most models.
Safety features, while basic, represented the evolving standards of the mid-1990s. A driver-side airbag was standard, a significant safety advancement for its time. A passenger-side airbag was still optional or not available on all trim levels, sometimes appearing later in the production run. Three-point seatbelts were standard for front passengers and outboard rear passengers. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an important optional safety feature, often bundled with higher trims or specific packages, offering improved stopping capability in emergency situations. The vehicle did incorporate some side-impact protection, though it would not meet the stringent standards of contemporary designs.
Regarding crash-test ratings, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) typically conducted frontal crash tests for vehicles of this vintage. For the 1995 Plymouth Acclaim, results generally showed average performance for its class. It typically received 3 or 4 out of 5 stars for frontal impact protection for the driver and passenger, which was considered acceptable for the time. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) did not perform their comprehensive offset frontal or side-impact tests on vehicles from this model year, so no ratings are available from that organization.
Driver-assistance features were virtually nonexistent compared to modern vehicles. The most advanced "assistance" would have been an optional cruise control system, primarily available on LX trims, allowing the driver to maintain a set speed on highways. There were no advanced features like traction control, stability control, blind-spot monitoring, or even remote keyless entry as standard equipment on most models.
Safety features, while basic, represented the evolving standards of the mid-1990s. A driver-side airbag was standard, a significant safety advancement for its time. A passenger-side airbag was still optional or not available on all trim levels, sometimes appearing later in the production run. Three-point seatbelts were standard for front passengers and outboard rear passengers. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an important optional safety feature, often bundled with higher trims or specific packages, offering improved stopping capability in emergency situations. The vehicle did incorporate some side-impact protection, though it would not meet the stringent standards of contemporary designs.
Regarding crash-test ratings, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) typically conducted frontal crash tests for vehicles of this vintage. For the 1995 Plymouth Acclaim, results generally showed average performance for its class. It typically received 3 or 4 out of 5 stars for frontal impact protection for the driver and passenger, which was considered acceptable for the time. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) did not perform their comprehensive offset frontal or side-impact tests on vehicles from this model year, so no ratings are available from that organization.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1995 Plymouth Acclaim Prices and Market Value
When new in 1995, the Plymouth Acclaim typically retailed for approximately $12,000 to $17,000, depending on the trim level and selected options. The base model started around $12,500, while a fully optioned LX could reach $16,500 or more. Today, the current used market prices are exceptionally low, with most functional examples selling for a few hundred dollars to under $2,000. Pristine, very low-mileage examples, which are rare, might command slightly more but rarely exceed $3,000.
The Acclaim experienced extremely high depreciation, as is common for mass-market, utilitarian sedans, especially those from discontinued brands. Factors severely affecting its resale value include its age, prevalence of rust, known mechanical issues (particularly transmission failures), and the general perception as an economy "beater" car. A complete service history and well-maintained condition are crucial for any marginal value, but it remains a minimal-value used car.
The Acclaim experienced extremely high depreciation, as is common for mass-market, utilitarian sedans, especially those from discontinued brands. Factors severely affecting its resale value include its age, prevalence of rust, known mechanical issues (particularly transmission failures), and the general perception as an economy "beater" car. A complete service history and well-maintained condition are crucial for any marginal value, but it remains a minimal-value used car.
1995 Plymouth Acclaim Cost of Ownership
The 1995 Plymouth Acclaim generally offers very economical ownership costs, provided no major failures occur. Insurance is typically inexpensive due to the car's low market value, meaning basic liability coverage is quite affordable. Fuel costs are moderate; the 4-cylinder engine provides decent efficiency for a mid-size sedan of its time.
Maintenance is usually budget-friendly, as parts are common and often shared with other Chrysler vehicles, making them widely available and inexpensive. The vehicle's simple mechanical design also keeps labor costs down for routine services. However, major repairs, particularly a transmission replacement, can easily exceed the car's market value, making it uneconomical to fix. Overall, it's an economical car to own if you avoid significant mechanical woes or are capable of DIY repairs.
Maintenance is usually budget-friendly, as parts are common and often shared with other Chrysler vehicles, making them widely available and inexpensive. The vehicle's simple mechanical design also keeps labor costs down for routine services. However, major repairs, particularly a transmission replacement, can easily exceed the car's market value, making it uneconomical to fix. Overall, it's an economical car to own if you avoid significant mechanical woes or are capable of DIY repairs.
1995 Plymouth Acclaim Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
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Fuel Capacity
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City Mileage
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Highway Mileage
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1995 Plymouth Acclaim Safety Rating
NHTSA
1995 Plymouth Acclaim Insurance
Insurance for a 1995 Plymouth Acclaim is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1995 Plymouth Acclaim Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1995 Plymouth Acclaim competed in the fiercely contested mid-size sedan segment against key rivals like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Taurus, Chevrolet Lumina, and Nissan Altima.
In terms of performance, the Acclaim generally lagged behind its Japanese rivals. While the optional V6 offered respectable acceleration for the era, it lacked the refinement of the Accord or Camry. Performance was more comparable to the base Ford Taurus or Chevrolet Lumina, though perhaps less polished.
Features were also a mixed bag. The Acclaim offered fewer standard amenities and less sophisticated options than the Accord or Camry, which often came with a richer array of convenience items. It was broadly competitive with domestic counterparts like the Taurus and Lumina, though base models were quite spartan.
Reliability was a significant differentiator. The Acclaim often suffered in comparison to the legendary reliability of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, particularly due to its problematic 4-speed automatic transmission and susceptibility to electrical issues and rust. Its reliability profile was more aligned with, or perhaps slightly below, its domestic rivals like the Ford Taurus or Chevrolet Lumina, which also had their own respective quirks and issues.
The Acclaim's strongest competitive advantage was always its price. It was consistently positioned as a more affordable option than the Japanese imports when new, and this value proposition became even more pronounced on the used market, where it was significantly cheaper.
Recommended alternatives:
In terms of performance, the Acclaim generally lagged behind its Japanese rivals. While the optional V6 offered respectable acceleration for the era, it lacked the refinement of the Accord or Camry. Performance was more comparable to the base Ford Taurus or Chevrolet Lumina, though perhaps less polished.
Features were also a mixed bag. The Acclaim offered fewer standard amenities and less sophisticated options than the Accord or Camry, which often came with a richer array of convenience items. It was broadly competitive with domestic counterparts like the Taurus and Lumina, though base models were quite spartan.
Reliability was a significant differentiator. The Acclaim often suffered in comparison to the legendary reliability of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, particularly due to its problematic 4-speed automatic transmission and susceptibility to electrical issues and rust. Its reliability profile was more aligned with, or perhaps slightly below, its domestic rivals like the Ford Taurus or Chevrolet Lumina, which also had their own respective quirks and issues.
The Acclaim's strongest competitive advantage was always its price. It was consistently positioned as a more affordable option than the Japanese imports when new, and this value proposition became even more pronounced on the used market, where it was significantly cheaper.
Recommended alternatives:
- Better Alternatives: For superior reliability, refinement, and overall longevity, a used Honda Accord or Toyota Camry from the same era would be a significantly better choice, despite potentially higher initial purchase prices.
- Similar Alternatives: The Dodge Spirit is virtually the same vehicle and shares identical strengths and weaknesses. For similar budget-conscious domestic options, a Ford Taurus or Chevrolet Lumina of the same vintage might offer more space or power for a comparable used price, but they also carry their own set of reliability concerns. For a slightly smaller, budget-friendly option, a Ford Tempo or Chevrolet Cavalier could also be considered, offering similar no-frills transportation.
Final Verdict: Is the 1995 Plymouth Acclaim a Good Sedan?
The 1995 Plymouth Acclaim is ideal for highly budget-conscious individuals seeking basic, no-frills transportation. It's a suitable choice for young drivers, students, or anyone needing a cheap, disposable "beater" car for short commutes or as a secondary vehicle. It especially appeals to those who are mechanically inclined and can perform their own maintenance and minor repairs.
Is it worth buying? Yes, but under very specific conditions. It should only be considered as a very cheap used vehicle. Look for examples with minimal rust and, crucially, a transmission that shifts smoothly with no signs of slipping or harsh engagement. The 2.5L 4-cylinder engine paired with the 3-speed automatic (A413) is generally more reliable than the V6 with the problematic 4-speed Ultradrive (A604). A pre-purchase inspection is paramount. Avoid any Acclaim with significant transmission issues, heavy rust, or extensive electrical problems, as repair costs will quickly outweigh its value.
Is it worth buying? Yes, but under very specific conditions. It should only be considered as a very cheap used vehicle. Look for examples with minimal rust and, crucially, a transmission that shifts smoothly with no signs of slipping or harsh engagement. The 2.5L 4-cylinder engine paired with the 3-speed automatic (A413) is generally more reliable than the V6 with the problematic 4-speed Ultradrive (A604). A pre-purchase inspection is paramount. Avoid any Acclaim with significant transmission issues, heavy rust, or extensive electrical problems, as repair costs will quickly outweigh its value.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.