Is Dodge Dart front or rear wheel drive?
The Dodge Dart’s drivetrain depends on the model year: the classic Darts from the 1960s and 1970s were rear-wheel drive, while the modern Dodge Dart (2013–2016) is front-wheel drive.
To understand this, it helps to trace the Dodge Dart through its different generations. The name has been used on various Chrysler platforms over the decades, with the most recent production run focusing on a compact sedan built on a Fiat-derived chassis. This article breaks down the drivetrain layouts by era and what they mean for drivers and maintenance.
Drivetrain by era
Overview of how the Dodge Dart's layout changed across generations.
- The classic Dodge Dart (introduced in 1960 and produced through the mid-1970s) used rear-wheel drive on Chrysler’s traditional platforms.
- The modern Dodge Dart (2013–2016) uses front-wheel drive on the Fiat-derived Compact U.S. Wide platform.
In short, the Dart name has been associated with both major layouts, depending on the generation, with the contemporary model being front-wheel drive.
Consequences for handling and ownership
How drive layout influences driving characteristics, maintenance, and ownership considerations for the two eras.
- Handling and dynamics: Rear-wheel-drive classics tend to offer different weight distribution and steering feel than front-wheel-drive moderns, which can affect handling performance and driving experience.
- Maintenance and parts: Front-wheel-drive layouts typically consolidate drivetrain components for efficiency, which can influence maintenance costs and ease of service for newer models; older, rear-wheel-drive Darts have different maintenance requirements and replacement part availability.
For potential buyers or collectors, it’s important to identify the exact model year to understand the drivetrain and corresponding maintenance needs.
Summary
Across its lineage, the Dodge Dart has embraced two distinct drivetrains. The early Darts were rear-wheel drive, reflecting mid-century Chrysler engineering. The later, 2013–2016 Dart was front-wheel drive, aligned with contemporary compact-sedan design. When evaluating a Dart, confirm the generation to know the drive layout, performance traits, and maintenance implications.
