The Dodge Dart is a compact car that was produced by Dodge from 1960 to 1976 and again from 2013 to 2016. The 1980 Dodge Dart was a restyled version of the fifth generation of the Dart, produced as a coupe and sedan. It was powered by a 2.2L inline-four engine or a 3.7L V6 engine, and was available with either a three-speed automatic or four-speed manual transmission.
The 1980 Dodge Dart was a popular car, with over 100,000 units sold. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and sporty handling. The Dart was also a popular choice for police departments, as it was relatively inexpensive and easy to operate. The 1980 Dodge Dart is a significant car in the history of the Dodge brand, as it was the last year that the Dart was produced before being discontinued for over 30 years.
The Dodge Dart was revived in 2013 as a compact sedan. The new Dart was based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta platform and was available with a variety of four-cylinder and V6 engines. The Dart was discontinued in 2016 due to poor sales.
dodge dart 1980
The 1980 Dodge Dart was a significant car in the history of the Dodge brand, as it was the last year that the Dart was produced before being discontinued for over 30 years. Here are 9 key aspects of the 1980 Dodge Dart:
- Compact and sporty
- Fuel-efficient
- Affordable
- Popular with police departments
- Last year of production for the fifth-generation Dart
- Based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta platform
- Available with a variety of four-cylinder and V6 engines
- Discontinued in 2016 due to poor sales
- Revived in 2013 as a compact sedan
These key aspects highlight the importance of the 1980 Dodge Dart in the automotive industry. The Dart was a popular and affordable car that was well-suited for a variety of needs. It was also a significant car for the Dodge brand, as it was the last year of production for the fifth-generation Dart. The Dart was revived in 2013, but was discontinued in 2016 due to poor sales.
Compact and sporty
The 1980 Dodge Dart was a compact and sporty car. This combination was important for several reasons. First, it made the Dart appealing to a wider range of buyers. Second, it gave the Dart an edge over its competitors, many of which were larger and less fuel-efficient. Third, the Dart’s compact size and sporty handling made it a fun and engaging car to drive.
The Dart’s compact size made it easy to maneuver and park in tight spaces. This was a major advantage in urban areas, where parking can be difficult to find. The Dart’s sporty handling also made it a pleasure to drive on winding roads. The car’s suspension was firm and responsive, and the steering was precise.
The combination of compact size and sporty handling made the 1980 Dodge Dart a unique and appealing car. It was a car that was both practical and fun to drive. This combination is still popular today, and it is one of the reasons why the Dodge Dart remains a popular choice among car buyers.
Fuel-efficient
The 1980 Dodge Dart was a fuel-efficient car, getting up to 25 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. This was important for several reasons. First, it made the Dart more affordable to operate, as gas prices were rising in the 1980s. Second, it made the Dart more appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. Third, it gave the Dart an edge over its competitors, many of which were less fuel-efficient.
The Dart’s fuel efficiency was due to several factors. First, it was a relatively small and lightweight car. Second, it had a fuel-efficient engine. Third, it was equipped with a number of fuel-saving features, such as an overdrive transmission and a carburetor that was tuned for fuel economy.
The Dart’s fuel efficiency was a major selling point in the 1980s. Consumers were increasingly looking for cars that were affordable to operate and environmentally friendly. The Dart met both of these needs, making it a popular choice among car buyers.
Affordable
The 1980 Dodge Dart was an affordable car, with a base price of $4,995. This made it one of the most affordable compact cars on the market. There were several reasons why the Dart was so affordable.
- Economical to manufacture: The Dart was built using a simple and inexpensive design. This helped to keep the cost of production low.
- Low operating costs: The Dart was also inexpensive to operate. It was fuel-efficient and had low maintenance costs.
- Government incentives: The government offered a tax credit for the purchase of fuel-efficient cars. This made the Dart even more affordable for consumers.
The Dart’s affordability was a major selling point in the 1980s. Consumers were looking for cars that were affordable to buy and operate. The Dart met both of these needs, making it a popular choice among car buyers.
Popular with police departments
The 1980 Dodge Dart was a popular choice for police departments. There were several reasons for this:
- Affordable: The Dart was an affordable car, which made it a good value for police departments. It was also relatively inexpensive to maintain and repair.
- Reliable: The Dart was a reliable car, which was important for police departments. Police cars are often used in high-speed chases and other demanding situations, so they need to be able to perform reliably.
- Spacious: The Dart was a spacious car, which was important for police departments. Police officers often need to transport prisoners and equipment, so they need a car that is large enough to accommodate them.
- Pursuit-rated: The Dart was available with a pursuit-rated package, which included a more powerful engine, upgraded suspension, and heavy-duty brakes. This made the Dart a good choice for police departments that needed a car that could handle high-speed pursuits.
The Dart was a popular choice for police departments for many years. It was an affordable, reliable, and spacious car that was well-suited for the demands of police work.
Last year of production for the fifth-generation Dart
The 1980 Dodge Dart was the last year of production for the fifth-generation Dart. This was a significant event for several reasons. First, the fifth-generation Dart had been in production for over a decade, and it was starting to show its age. Second, the automotive industry was undergoing a major transformation in the early 1980s, and the Dart was no longer competitive with newer, more fuel-efficient cars.
The decision to discontinue the fifth-generation Dart was a difficult one for Dodge, but it was the right decision. The car was no longer competitive in the marketplace, and it was time for a change. The Dart was replaced by the Dodge Daytona in 1984, which was a more modern and fuel-efficient car.
The end of production for the fifth-generation Dart marked the end of an era for Dodge. The Dart had been a popular car for over a decade, and it had played a major role in the company’s success. However, the automotive industry was changing, and it was time for Dodge to move on.
Based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta platform
The 2013 Dodge Dart is based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta platform, which it shares with the Fiat 500L and Jeep Renegade. This is significant because it marks a departure from the previous Dart, which was based on the Chrysler Neon platform. The Giulietta platform is a more modern and sophisticated platform, and it gives the Dart a number of advantages over its predecessor.
One of the most significant advantages of the Giulietta platform is that it is lighter than the Neon platform. This makes the Dart more fuel-efficient and agile. The Giulietta platform also has a longer wheelbase than the Neon platform, which gives the Dart more interior space. Additionally, the Giulietta platform is more rigid than the Neon platform, which gives the Dart better handling and a more comfortable ride.
The decision to base the Dart on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta platform was a wise one. The Giulietta platform is a superior platform in every way, and it gives the Dart a number of advantages over its competitors. As a result, the Dart is a more fuel-efficient, agile, spacious, and comfortable car than its predecessor.
Available with a variety of four-cylinder and V6 engines
The 1980 Dodge Dart was available with a variety of four-cylinder and V6 engines, offering buyers a range of power and fuel efficiency options to suit their needs. This was a significant feature for several reasons.
- Variety of choices: Buyers could choose from a variety of engines, including a 2.2L inline-four engine and a 3.7L V6 engine. This gave buyers the flexibility to choose the engine that best suited their needs and budget.
- Power and performance: The V6 engine provided more power and performance than the four-cylinder engine, making it a good choice for buyers who wanted a more powerful car.
- Fuel efficiency: The four-cylinder engine was more fuel-efficient than the V6 engine, making it a good choice for buyers who wanted to save money on gas.
The availability of a variety of four-cylinder and V6 engines was a major selling point for the 1980 Dodge Dart. It gave buyers the flexibility to choose the engine that best suited their needs and budget. As a result, the Dart was a popular choice for buyers who wanted a compact car with a variety of power and fuel efficiency options.
Discontinued in 2016 due to poor sales
The 2013 Dodge Dart was discontinued in 2016 due to poor sales. This is significant because it highlights the challenges that many car manufacturers face when trying to compete in the compact car market. The compact car market is highly competitive, and there are many different models to choose from.
- Changing consumer preferences: Consumer preferences have changed in recent years, and there is now a greater demand for SUVs and crossover vehicles. This has made it more difficult for compact cars to compete.
- Competition from foreign automakers: Foreign automakers, such as Toyota and Honda, have a strong presence in the compact car market. These automakers offer high-quality, fuel-efficient cars that are often more appealing to consumers than American-made cars.
- Lack of brand loyalty: There is a lack of brand loyalty in the compact car market. Consumers are more likely to switch brands if they are not satisfied with their current car.
- Economic factors: Economic factors, such as rising gas prices, can also impact the sales of compact cars. When gas prices are high, consumers are more likely to purchase fuel-efficient vehicles.
The discontinuation of the Dodge Dart is a reminder of the challenges that car manufacturers face in the compact car market. It is a competitive market, and car manufacturers need to be able to adapt to changing consumer preferences and economic conditions.
Revived in 2013 as a compact sedan
The Dodge Dart was revived in 2013 as a compact sedan, after being discontinued in 1980. The revival of the Dart was significant for several reasons.
- Return of a classic name: The Dart nameplate had been dormant for over 30 years, and its revival was a nod to the car’s heritage. The new Dart was designed to be a modern interpretation of the classic Dodge Dart.
- New platform and design: The 2013 Dart was based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta platform, which was a significant departure from the previous Dart. The new platform gave the Dart a more modern and sophisticated design, as well as improved performance and handling.
- Increased fuel efficiency: The 2013 Dart was more fuel-efficient than the previous Dart, thanks to its new platform and engine options. This was an important factor for consumers who were looking for a compact car that was both stylish and fuel-efficient.
- Competitive pricing: The 2013 Dart was priced competitively with other compact sedans on the market. This made it an attractive option for consumers who were looking for a value-packed car.
The revival of the Dodge Dart in 2013 was a success, and the car quickly became a popular choice for consumers who were looking for a stylish, fuel-efficient, and affordable compact sedan.
1980 Dodge Dart FAQs
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about the 1980 Dodge Dart. These questions address common concerns or misconceptions about the vehicle and aim to provide a clear understanding of its features, performance, and history.
Question 1: What were the key features of the 1980 Dodge Dart?
The 1980 Dodge Dart was known for its compact size, sporty handling, fuel efficiency, affordability, and popularity with police departments. It was available as a coupe and sedan, and offered a choice of engines and transmission options.
Question 2: How fuel-efficient was the 1980 Dodge Dart?
The 1980 Dodge Dart was relatively fuel-efficient for its time, especially compared to its larger competitors. It achieved up to 25 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, thanks to its lightweight design, fuel-efficient engine, and overdrive transmission.
Question 3: Why was the 1980 Dodge Dart popular with police departments?
The 1980 Dodge Dart was a popular choice for police departments due to its affordability, reliability, spacious interior, and availability of a pursuit-rated package. The pursuit-rated package included a more powerful engine, upgraded suspension, and heavy-duty brakes, making it suitable for high-speed chases and demanding situations.
Question 4: Was the 1980 Dodge Dart the last year of production for the fifth-generation Dart?
Yes, the 1980 Dodge Dart was the last year of production for the fifth-generation Dart. Production ended due to the aging platform, competition from newer and more fuel-efficient cars, and the need for a more modern replacement. The Dodge Daytona was introduced in 1984 as the successor to the fifth-generation Dart.
Question 5: What platform was the 2013 Dodge Dart based on?
The 2013 Dodge Dart was based on the Alfa Romeo Giulietta platform. This platform was a departure from the previous Dart, which was based on the Chrysler Neon platform. The Giulietta platform provided the 2013 Dart with a number of advantages, including a lighter weight, longer wheelbase, more rigid construction, and improved handling.
Question 6: Why was the 2013 Dodge Dart discontinued?
The 2013 Dodge Dart was discontinued in 2016 due to poor sales. The compact car market became increasingly competitive, and the Dart faced strong competition from foreign automakers and a lack of brand loyalty. Additionally, changing consumer preferences towards SUVs and crossover vehicles contributed to the decline in sales.
Summary
The 1980 Dodge Dart was a significant car in the history of the Dodge brand, and it remains a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts. Its compact size, sporty handling, fuel efficiency, and affordability made it a popular choice for consumers and police departments alike. While the 2013 revival of the Dart was less successful, it showcased the potential of the nameplate and the brand’s commitment to innovation.
Transition to the next article section
For further information and a more comprehensive look at the Dodge Dart, please refer to the following sections:
- History of the Dodge Dart
- Specifications and Features
- Legacy and Impact
1980 Dodge Dart
The 1980 Dodge Dart is a classic car that remains popular among enthusiasts today. With proper care and maintenance, it can provide years of driving enjoyment. Here are some tips to help you keep your 1980 Dodge Dart in top condition:
Tip 1: Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential for any vehicle, but it is especially important for classic cars. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, which includes oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections. Regular maintenance can help prevent minor problems from becoming major ones, and it can extend the life of your car.
Tip 2: Rust Prevention
Rust is a major enemy of classic cars, so it is important to take steps to prevent it. Inspect your car regularly for any signs of rust, and treat any rust spots immediately. You can also apply a rust-prevention coating to the underbody of your car to help protect it from the elements.
Tip 3: Protect the Interior
The interior of your 1980 Dodge Dart is just as important as the exterior. Protect the seats, dashboard, and other interior surfaces from sun damage and wear and tear. Use a car cover when the car is parked, and clean the interior regularly with a mild detergent.
Tip 4: Store Properly
If you are not planning to drive your 1980 Dodge Dart for an extended period of time, it is important to store it properly. Choose a dry, well-ventilated place to store the car, and make sure to disconnect the battery and cover the car to protect it from dust and moisture.
Tip 5: Drive Regularly
Classic cars are meant to be driven, so make sure to take your 1980 Dodge Dart out for a drive regularly. This will help keep the engine and other components in good working order, and it will also help prevent the car from developing problems that can occur when it is stored for long periods of time.
Summary
By following these tips, you can help keep your 1980 Dodge Dart in top condition for years to come. Regular maintenance, rust prevention, and proper storage are all essential for preserving the value and beauty of this classic car. And most importantly, don’t forget to drive and enjoy your Dart!
For further information and resources on maintaining and preserving your 1980 Dodge Dart, please refer to the following sections:
- Maintenance and Repair
- Restoration and Upgrades
- Clubs and Online Communities
Conclusion
A compact and sporty vehicle, the 1980 Dodge Dart left a significant mark on the automotive industry, particularly in the law enforcement sector. Its fuel efficiency, affordability, and versatility made it a popular choice for everyday driving and police work alike. Despite the discontinuation of its production line in 1980, the Dodge Dart remains a beloved classic, showcasing the innovation and legacy of the Dodge brand.
For enthusiasts seeking to preserve and celebrate the 1980 Dodge Dart, various resources and communities are available to provide support and guidance. Regular maintenance, rust prevention, and proper storage are crucial for maintaining the vehicle’s condition. Additionally, dedicated clubs and online forums foster a sense of camaraderie and provide a wealth of knowledge for owners and enthusiasts alike.