What year of Dodge Dart is the best?
The best Dodge Dart year depends on your goal: if you’re chasing classic performance and collector value, the late 1960s—especially 1968 and 1969 Dart Swinger/GT models with a small-block V8—are widely regarded as the peak; if you want a practical, affordable modern sedan, the 2014–2015 Darts offer the best balance of features and reliability before the line ended in 2016.
To understand why, it helps to separate the Dodge Dart’s two main eras: the 1960s classic A-body Darts that became iconic muscle-era machines, and the modern Fiat-based Dart produced from 2013 to 2016. Each era has its own strengths, trade-offs, and buying quirks.
Classic Dodge Dart (1960s): what years shine and why
In the classic era, late-model years tend to be most desirable for performance and aftermarket support, while earlier years are valued for styling and originality. The following years are frequently highlighted by collectors and enthusiasts.
- 1968 Dodge Dart: Often cited as the sweet spot for performance trims and essential parts availability; a balance of styling, handling, and aftermarket support that appeals to weekend racers and collectors alike.
- 1969 Dodge Dart: Very close to 1968 in desirability, with refined trims like the Swinger 340 and GT; strong crowd for those chasing high-performance small-block options in a compact package.
- 1967 Dodge Dart: A mid-generation update that improved styling cues and options; solid choice for buyers seeking a mix of performance and original design without venturing into the higher-price late-68/69 models.
- 1964–1966 Dodge Dart (early A-body): The original Dart redesigns with classic styling and simpler mechanicals; highly collectible for those prioritizing originality and historical significance, though not as performance-focused as the late 1960s.
Among classic Darts, the late-1960s models (1968–1969) consistently draw the strongest interest for performance variants and aftermarket support, which helps with restoration, maintenance, and value retention. Early and mid-1960s Darts remain desirable for their vintage appeal and ease of finding parts, but they typically deliver less horsepower and fewer high-performance options than the late-60s machines.
Modern Dodge Dart (2013–2016): practicality and what buyers should know
For a more contemporary sedan experience, the modern Dart offered in the 2013–2016 window has its own buying considerations. The years with the most favorable combination of updates and documented reliability tend to be the later models, though this generation is less collectible than the classic era.
- 2013 Dodge Dart: Introduced the modern, Fiat-influenced underpinnings with fresh styling; some early reliability concerns noted by owners, but well-maintained examples can be solid daily drivers.
- 2014–2015 Dodge Dart: Generally viewed as the better target years in the modern lineup due to mid-cycle updates, feature refinements, and improved overall reliability; strong value if maintained well.
- 2016 Dodge Dart: Final production year; potential bargains exist, but condition and maintenance history are critical since long-term parts availability and dealer support decline over time.
When considering a modern Dart, the emphasis is on service history, rust-free condition, and documented maintenance, since this generation is not as widely celebrated for reliability as some rivals in its class. A well-documented 2014 or 2015 example often represents the best balance of features, condition, and ownership costs in the Dart’s final years.
Buying tips and what to look for
Regardless of era, there are common criteria to evaluate to determine the best year for your needs. Pay attention to condition, provenance, and maintenance history, as these factors often outweigh the calendar year when it comes to value and enjoyment.
- Documentation: service records, prior ownership, and any restoration work—especially for classic Darts—greatly influence value and reliability.
- Rust and frame integrity: check for signs of water intrusion, rust throughable panels, and chassis rust on classic Darts; this is a critical risk factor for long-term ownership.
- Matching numbers and originality (for collectibility): verify engine and/or trans matching, trim, and factory configurations if you’re pursuing a collector-grade example.
- Maintenance history (modern Darts): assess transmission behavior, timing belt/chain history if applicable, and major service milestones to gauge future reliability.
In both eras, a well-chosen example with thorough history and careful maintenance will provide more satisfaction than chasing a specific year with questionable provenance or deferred maintenance.
Summary
There isn’t a single “best” Dodge Dart year for every buyer. For classic collectors and enthusiasts, 1968 and 1969 stand out as the pinnacle years for performance and aftermarket support, especially in Swinger/GT trim. For those seeking a practical, budget-friendly modern sedan, the 2014–2015 Dart models offer the strongest value and refinements within the 2013–2016 lineup. Regardless of era, prioritize condition, originality, and a solid maintenance history to determine the true best year for you.
Which Dodge Dart engine is best?
Reviewers prefer the Dart's 1.4-liter turbocharged engine over the base 2.0-liter engine, especially when the 1.4-liter engine is paired with the manual transmission. Reviewers are most impressed with the Dart after taking it on twisty roads, calling its handling accurate and responsive.
Do Dodge Darts last long?
How long do Dodge Darts last? Typically, a Dodge Dart will last 200,000-250,000. Of course, many factors will influence the lifespan of the Dodge Dart, such as the frequency of repairs and how you drive the car.
What problems are Dodge Darts known for?
Common problems with the Dodge Dart include issues with the engine and transmission, excessive oil consumption, and a shifter cable defect that can cause a rollaway risk. Other reported problems are with the suspension system, battery failure, ignition coils, and the Bluetooth module. A significant 2013-2016 model year recall addresses the rollaway risk due to a faulty shifter cable.
This video discusses common problems and recalls for the Dodge Dart: 57scar PROblemsYouTube · Oct 3, 2022
Engine and transmission
- Engine stalling: Can be caused by faulty sensors, ignition coils, fuel system components, or battery/alternator issues.
- Excessive oil consumption: Particularly notable in the 2015 model year, some engines may consume excessive oil.
- Transmission issues: Both automatic and manual transmissions have been a source of problems, with some automatic models suffering from sluggish performance.
- Ignition coils: Failure of the ignition coils can lead to rough running and other performance issues.
Recalls and safety
- Rollaway risk: A major recall for model years 2013-2016 addresses a shifter cable defect where the car could roll away even when in park.
Other common issues
- Suspension problems: Worn-out suspension mounts can cause vibrations, especially at idle.
- Bluetooth module: The infotainment system's Bluetooth module is a frequent point of failure.
- Coolant hose fittings: Plastic T-connectors in the cooling system can fail and are best replaced with metal ones.
- Battery failure: Some owners have reported issues with the battery.
- Brake-related issues: Brakes have been cited as a problem area for some owners.
- Broken sun visor: The sun visor is a recurring complaint.
What to look for when buying a Dodge Dart?
Common Dodge Dart Problems
- Excessive Oil Consumption. If you plan to buy a used 2015 Dodge Dart, you may want to watch out for excessive oil consumption.
- Engine Stalling.
- Suspension System Issues.
- Malfunctioning Transmission.
- Broken Sun Visor.
- Battery Failure.
- Brake-related Issues.
