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Best Dodge Dart Model Years (Ranked)

📖 2,657 words🗓️ Published Jun 22, 2026 · Updated Jun 21, 2026

The Dodge Dart is one of the most storied names in American automotive history, attached to two very different cars: a rugged, popular 1960s-1970s compact built on Chrysler's bulletproof A-body platform, and a short-lived 2013-2016 compact built on a Fiat-derived platform during the early Fiat-Chrysler era. The classic Dart earned its reputation on the slant-six engine's legendary durability and on affordable V8 muscle in its GT, GTS, and Swinger trims. The modern Dart arrived with sharp styling and a roomy cabin but was hobbled by a balky dual-clutch transmission and soft sales that ended the nameplate after 2016. This ranking sorts the best Dodge Dart model years and variants across both eras, covering engines, known issues, recalls, and where the real value lies for collectors and used-car shoppers alike.

Direct Answer

The best overall Dodge Dart is the 1968-1969 Dart GTS of the classic A-body era, which paired a tight, lightweight body with 383 and (rarely) 440 big-block V8 power, making it a genuine and now highly collectible Mopar muscle car. For shoppers who want reliable, affordable transportation, the best value is a slant-six-equipped 1967-1976 Dart sedan, whose 225-cubic-inch slant-six is among the most durable engines Chrysler ever built and remains cheap to own and repair. Among the modern cars, the 2015-2016 Dart with the 2.4L Tigershark and the conventional six-speed automatic is the safest pick; steer clear of early 1.4T dual-clutch (DDCT) 2013 cars unless the transmission has documented service history. In short: buy the GTS to collect, the slant-six to drive cheaply, and the 2.4L Tigershark if you only want a modern used commuter.

flowchart TD A[Best Overall: 1968-1969 Dart GTS] --> B[Best Value: 225 Slant-Six Sedan] B --> C[Budget Muscle: 1970-1971 Swinger 340] C --> D[Best Modern Pick: 2015-2016 2.4L Tigershark] D --> E[Approach With Caution: 2013 1.4T DDCT]

1. 1968-1969 Dart GTS 🏆 BEST OVERALL

1968-1969 Dart GTS

The GTS (GT Sport) is the high-water mark of the classic Dart. Built on the compact, lightweight A-body platform, it could be ordered with the high-winding 340-cubic-inch small-block or the brawny 383 big-block V8, and a rare run of dealer-built cars carried the 440. Low curb weight plus big displacement made these among the quickest cars of the era.

Today the 1968-1969 GTS is a sought-after collectible, with documented, numbers-matching cars commanding strong money at auction. Originality matters enormously: a verifiable fender tag and broadcast sheet can separate a real GTS from a tribute car worth a fraction as much. For a buyer who wants a true Mopar muscle car with genuine performance pedigree and appreciating value, this is the Dart to own.

2. 1967-1976 Dart Slant-Six Sedan 💎 BEST VALUE

1967-1976 Dart Slant-Six Sedan

The slant-six Dart is the value champion of the entire nameplate. The 225-cubic-inch (3.7L) slant-six, canted 30 degrees to clear the hood, is one of the most durable engines Chrysler ever produced, routinely running past 200,000 miles with nothing more than basic maintenance. Parts are cheap and plentiful, and the engine is famously forgiving of neglect.

The sweet spot is a clean 1967-1976 Dart sedan in 170 or 225 slant-six form. These cars are simple to repair, easy to work on in a home garage, and far cheaper to buy than the V8 muscle variants. For a hobbyist who wants a dependable classic without muscle-car pricing, the slant-six Dart delivers reliability and character at the lowest entry point in the lineup.

3. 1970-1971 Dart Swinger 340

1970-1971 Dart Swinger 340

The Dart Swinger 340 is the budget muscle hero of the lineup. Dodge dropped the high-revving 340-cubic-inch small-block V8 (rated around 275 hp) into the lightweight two-door hardtop, creating a quick, balanced, affordable performance car that undercut bigger muscle cars on price.

Its appeal lies in a near-perfect blend of light weight and torque. It handles better than nose-heavy big-block cars and is cheaper to feed at the pump. Collector interest has climbed steadily, and clean 1970-1971 Swinger 340 examples are now genuinely desirable. For a buyer who wants classic Mopar V8 performance without GTS money, the Swinger 340 is one of the smartest entries in the range.

4. 1963-1966 Dart GT (Second Generation)

1963-1966 Dart GT (Second Generation)

When the Dart moved to a true compact A-body for 1963, the sporty GT trim brought bucket seats, brighter trim, and available V8 power. These early-1960s cars are charming, simpler than the later muscle variants, and increasingly collectible, especially the convertibles.

The 1963-1966 GT can be found with the slant-six or the 273-cubic-inch V8, and its clean, restrained styling has aged well. These are affordable entries into Mopar ownership that reward originality. Watch for rust in the floors, trunk, and lower quarters, the usual enemy of early-1960s unibody cars. A solid, rust-free GT convertible is a rewarding and appreciating classic.

5. 1972-1976 Dart Sport / Demon 340

1972-1976 Dart Sport / Demon 340

The Dart Sport (and its 1971-1972 predecessor, the Demon) brought a sporty fastback body to the A-body line. The Demon 340 and early Dart Sport 360 versions offered real performance before tightening emissions regulations sapped output through the mid-1970s.

These cars are more affordable than GTS and Swinger 340 models and offer distinctive fastback styling that sets them apart from the standard sedans. The Demon name carries cult appeal among Mopar fans. Because performance dropped as the decade wore on, the earlier high-output V8 cars are the ones to seek. For a buyer who wants A-body character with a sportier silhouette at a friendly price, the Dart Sport is a strong choice.

6. 2015-2016 Dart 2.4L Tigershark (Best Modern Pick)

2015-2016 Dart 2.4L Tigershark (Modern, Best Modern Pick)

Among the modern 2013-2016 Darts, the 2015-2016 model with the 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder and the conventional six-speed automatic is the most sensible pick. By this point Fiat-Chrysler had ironed out many early bugs, and the standard automatic sidesteps the troublesome dual-clutch unit found on some earlier cars.

The modern Dart's strengths are its roomy interior, large trunk, and sharp styling on a Fiat-derived platform. The 184-hp 2.4L delivers adequate, if unexciting, performance. These are inexpensive used cars today. For a budget commuter who wants a comfortable, well-equipped compact and is willing to keep up with maintenance, a clean 2015-2016 Tigershark Dart is the smart modern choice.

7. 2014 Dart GT (Modern Performance Trim)

2014 Dart GT (Modern Performance Trim)

The modern Dart GT revived the sporty name with the 2.4L Tigershark, a sport-tuned suspension, larger wheels, and a more aggressive look. It was the enthusiast's pick in the modern lineup, offering firmer handling and a better-equipped cabin than base models.

The GT could be had with the six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual, the latter appealing to drivers who want more engagement. It is not a fast car, but it is the most rounded modern Dart to drive. As with all modern Darts, verify recall completion and confirm the electronics function. For a buyer who wants the sportiest modern Dart at a low used price, the GT trim is the one to find.

8. 1960-1962 Dart (First Generation, Full-Size)

1960-1962 Dart (First Generation, Full-Size)

The original 1960-1962 Dart was a full-size car, not a compact, and wore the bold, fin-laden styling of the era. Offered in Seneca, Pioneer, and Phoenix trims, it could be ordered with everything from the slant-six to big 361 and 383 V8s, including rare high-performance versions.

These early Darts are distinctive period pieces with strong styling and genuine vintage appeal. They are rarer than later A-body cars and attract collectors who appreciate early-1960s design. Rust and parts scarcity are the main concerns, and restoration can be involved. For a buyer drawn to bold first-generation styling and willing to chase parts, a solid early Dart is a unique and characterful classic.

9. 2013 Dart 1.4L MultiAir Turbo (Caution)

2013 Dart 1.4L MultiAir Turbo (Caution)

The 2013 Dart with the 1.4L MultiAir turbocharged four-cylinder, borrowed from the Fiat 500 Abarth, was marketed for efficiency. The turbo engine offers decent torque, but it is the riskiest modern Dart, especially when paired with the dual-dry-clutch (DDCT) automated manual transmission, which drew widespread complaints for jerky, unreliable behavior.

The 1.4T with a manual transmission is far more tolerable, but the DDCT cars should be approached with real caution and full service documentation. The early 2013 model year also carried the most first-year bugs. Only buy one with verified transmission service history, and prefer the manual. For most buyers, the later 2.4L automatic Darts are a far safer modern choice.

10. 2013 Dart 2.0L Base (Modern Budget)

2013 Dart 2.0L Base (Modern Budget)

The base 2.0L Tigershark four-cylinder (around 160 hp) in the 2013 Dart is the least powerful modern variant. It is adequate for commuting but feels underpowered in a car as large and heavy as the Dart, particularly with the automatic.

As the cheapest modern Dart, it makes sense only as bargain transportation. Like all first-year 2013 cars, it carries the most early-production quirks, so a clean maintenance record matters. Inspect for electronics gremlins and confirm all recalls are closed. A well-kept 2013 2.0L Dart can serve as basic, inexpensive transportation, but most shoppers will be happier stepping up to a 2.4L car.

What to Watch For When Buying

Rust is the number-one enemy of classic A-body Darts. Inspect the floor pans, trunk floor, lower quarter panels, and frame rails carefully, as unibody corrosion can be expensive to repair.
Verify originality on muscle variants. For GTS, Swinger 340, and Demon/Dart Sport 340 cars, confirm the fender tag, VIN, and any broadcast sheet to ensure the engine and trim are correct, as clones and tribute cars are common.
The slant-six is famously durable, but still check for oil leaks, cooling-system condition, and worn front-end components on high-mileage classics.
On modern 2013-2014 cars, the dual-dry-clutch (DDCT) transmission is the key risk. Test for jerky shifts and demand transmission service records; prefer the conventional six-speed automatic or the manual.
Run the VIN through the NHTSA recall database on any modern Dart, which had several recalls covering wiring, ignition, and other items, and confirm all are closed.
Check the electronics and Uconnect system on modern cars, and verify the active grille shutters and other Fiat-derived components function.

How to Choose

Match the Dart to your goal. For a genuine collectible Mopar muscle car with real performance and appreciating value, the 1968-1969 GTS is the answer, followed by the Swinger 340 as a lighter, cheaper alternative. For cheap, dependable classic ownership, nothing beats a 225 slant-six sedan, which is simple, durable, and inexpensive to maintain. Early-1960s GT and full-size Darts appeal to buyers who prize distinctive vintage styling. Among modern cars, target a 2015-2016 2.4L Tigershark with the conventional automatic for the best balance of reliability and value, and steer clear of the 1.4T DDCT unless its service history is documented. In every case, prioritize rust-free bodies on classics and closed recalls on modern cars.

FAQ

What is the most reliable Dodge Dart engine? The 225-cubic-inch slant-six from the classic era is widely regarded as Chrysler's most durable engine, often passing 200,000 miles with only basic maintenance. For the modern Dart, the 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder is the most dependable choice, especially when paired with the conventional six-speed automatic rather than the dual-clutch unit.

Which Dodge Dart model years should I avoid? On the modern car, be most cautious with the 2013-2014 Darts equipped with the 1.4T dual-dry-clutch (DDCT) automated manual, which was prone to rough shifting and reliability complaints. Among classics, any rust-rotten example is best avoided, since corrosion in the floors and frame rails is the costliest problem to fix on an A-body Dart.

Is the modern Dodge Dart a good used car? The 2015-2016 Dart with the 2.4L engine and six-speed automatic makes a reasonable budget compact, with a roomy interior and a usable trunk. That said, overall reliability rates as average compared with rivals like the Honda Civic or Mazda3, and resale value is lower, which is exactly why these cars are cheap to buy used today.

What makes the 1968-1969 Dart GTS so special? These years combined a lightweight A-body platform with big-block V8 options like the 383 and the rare 440, delivering genuine muscle-car performance from a compact body. Their scarcity and factory high-performance credentials make verified, numbers-matching cars highly sought after by collectors, with strong values reported by sources like Hagerty for well-documented examples.

How long do Dodge Dart slant-six engines last? With regular oil changes and basic care, the 225 slant-six routinely reaches 200,000 to 300,000 miles without major internal repairs, thanks to its robust cast-iron construction and simple, low-stress design. Owners frequently report even higher mileage on well-maintained examples, which is a big part of the engine's enduring reputation.

Are parts still available for classic Dodge Darts? Yes. Parts availability is excellent for the 1960s-1970s Dart because it shares its A-body platform with the Plymouth Duster and Valiant, so mechanical and trim parts are interchangeable across a large pool of cars. Reproduction sheet metal, engine components, and interior parts are widely sold by Mopar specialty suppliers and online retailers.

Bottom Line

The Dodge Dart spans two distinct eras, and choosing well means knowing which one you want. The 1968-1969 GTS is the best overall pick, a true collectible Mopar muscle car, while a durable 225 slant-six sedan offers the best value for affordable classic ownership. The Swinger 340 bridges performance and price beautifully. Among modern cars, a 2015-2016 2.4L Tigershark with the conventional automatic is the safest buy, and the 1.4T DDCT should be approached carefully. Inspect classics for rust and modern cars for closed recalls, and the Dart rewards you.

graph TD A[Shopping for a Dodge Dart?] --> B{Classic or modern?} B -->|Classic A-body| C{Goal?} B -->|Modern 2013-2016| D{Engine?} C -->|Muscle / collectible| E[1968-1969 GTS or Swinger 340] C -->|Cheap reliable classic| F[225 slant-six sedan] D -->|Safe pick| G[2015-2016 2.4L automatic] D -->|1.4T DDCT| H[Verify transmission service] E --> I[Best overall: GTS] F --> J[Best value: slant-six]

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Sources

Wikipedia — Dodge Dart classic and modern generations and specifications, en.wikipedia.org
NHTSA — recall database for Dodge Dart by model year, nhtsa.gov
Hagerty — classic Dodge Dart valuation and buyer guides, hagerty.com
Edmunds — Dodge Dart (2013-2016) reviews and used-car appraisals, edmunds.com
Kelley Blue Book — Dodge Dart used values by model year, kbb.com
Car and Driver — Dodge Dart road tests and reviews, caranddriver.com

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![1968 Dodge Dart GTS](https://i.postimg.cc/fTQMphk5/1968-dodge-dart-gts.jpg)

# Best Dodge Dart Model Years (Ranked)

The **Dodge Dart** is one of the most storied names in American automotive history, attached to two very different cars: a rugged, popular **1960s-1970s compact** built on Chrysler's bulletproof A-body platform, and a short-lived **2013-2016 compact** built on a Fiat-derived platform during the early Fiat-Chrysler era. The classic Dart earned its reputation on the **slant-six engine's** legendary durability and on affordable V8 muscle in its GT, GTS, and Swinger trims. The modern Dart arrived with sharp styling and a roomy cabin but was hobbled by a balky dual-clutch transmission and soft sales that ended the nameplate after 2016. This ranking sorts the best Dodge Dart model years and variants across both eras, covering engines, known issues, recalls, and where the real value lies for collectors and used-car shoppers alike.

## Direct Answer

The **best overall Dodge Dart is the 1968-1969 Dart GTS** of the classic A-body era, which paired a tight, lightweight body with **383 and (rarely) 440 big-block V8 power**, making it a genuine and now highly collectible Mopar muscle car. For shoppers who want reliable, affordable transportation, the **best value is a slant-six-equipped 1967-1976 Dart sedan**, whose **225-cubic-inch slant-six** is among the most durable engines Chrysler ever built and remains cheap to own and repair. Among the modern cars, the **2015-2016 Dart with the 2.4L Tigershark and the conventional six-speed automatic** is the safest pick; steer clear of early **1.4T dual-clutch (DDCT) 2013 cars** unless the transmission has documented service history. In short: buy the GTS to collect, the slant-six to drive cheaply, and the 2.4L Tigershark if you only want a modern used commuter.

```mermaid
flowchart TD
    A[Best Overall: 1968-1969 Dart GTS] --> B[Best Value: 225 Slant-Six Sedan]
    B --> C[Budget Muscle: 1970-1971 Swinger 340]
    C --> D[Best Modern Pick: 2015-2016 2.4L Tigershark]
    D --> E[Approach With Caution: 2013 1.4T DDCT]
```

## 1. 1968-1969 Dart GTS 🏆 BEST OVERALL

![1968 Dodge Dart GTS](https://photos.classiccars.com/cc-temp/listing/69/6550/1676291-1968-dodge-dart-gts-std.jpg)%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=70049)

@@PRODUCT name="1968-1969 Dart GTS" img="https://photos.classiccars.com/cc-temp/listing/189/2321/49012280-1968-dodge-dart-gts-std.jpg" site="https://classiccars.com/listings/view/1892321/1968-dodge-dart-gts-for-sale-in-simi-valley-california-93065"

The **GTS (GT Sport)** is the high-water mark of the classic Dart. Built on the compact, lightweight **A-body platform**, it could be ordered with the high-winding **340-cubic-inch small-block** or the brawny **383 big-block V8**, and a rare run of dealer-built cars carried the **440**. Low curb weight plus big displacement made these among the quickest cars of the era.

Today the **1968-1969 GTS** is a sought-after collectible, with documented, numbers-matching cars commanding strong money at auction. Originality matters enormously: a verifiable **fender tag and broadcast sheet** can separate a real GTS from a tribute car worth a fraction as much. For a buyer who wants a true Mopar muscle car with genuine performance pedigree and appreciating value, this is the Dart to own.

## 2. 1967-1976 Dart Slant-Six Sedan 💎 BEST VALUE

![1970 Dodge Dart sedan](https://topclassiccarsforsale.com/uploads/photoalbum/1970-dodge-dart-sedan-green-3.jpg)

@@PRODUCT name="1967-1976 Dart Slant-Six Sedan" img="https://barnfinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/1-47.jpg" site="https://barnfinds.com/driver-quality-slant-six-1967-dodge-dart-gt/"

The **slant-six Dart** is the value champion of the entire nameplate. The **225-cubic-inch (3.7L) slant-six**, canted 30 degrees to clear the hood, is one of the most durable engines Chrysler ever produced, routinely running past **200,000 miles** with nothing more than basic maintenance. Parts are cheap and plentiful, and the engine is famously forgiving of neglect.

The sweet spot is a clean **1967-1976 Dart sedan** in 170 or 225 slant-six form. These cars are simple to repair, easy to work on in a home garage, and far cheaper to buy than the V8 muscle variants. For a hobbyist who wants a dependable classic without muscle-car pricing, the slant-six Dart delivers reliability and character at the lowest entry point in the lineup.

## 3. 1970-1971 Dart Swinger 340

![1970 Dodge Dart Swinger 340](https://bringatrailer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/1970_dodge_dart-swinger_img_0270-08130.jpeg)%2C%20realistic%20magazine%20style%2C%20warm%20light%2C%20no%20text%2C%20no%20watermark?width=1200&height=675&nologo=true&model=flux&seed=2474)

@@PRODUCT name="1970-1971 Dart Swinger 340" img="https://bringatrailer.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/1970_dodge_dart-swinger_img_0270-08130.jpeg?fit=940%2C627" site="https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1970-dodge-dart-swinger-2/"

The **Dart Swinger 340** is the budget muscle hero of the lineup. Dodge dropped the high-revving **340-cubic-inch small-block V8** (rated around 275 hp) into the lightweight two-door hardtop, creating a quick, balanced, affordable performance car that undercut bigger muscle cars on price.

Its appeal lies in a **near-perfect blend of light weight and torque**. It handles better than nose-heavy big-block cars and is cheaper to feed at the pump. Collector interest has climbed steadily, and clean **1970-1971 Swinger 340** examples are now genuinely desirable. For a buyer who wants classic Mopar V8 performance without GTS money, the Swinger 340 is one of the smartest entries in the range.

## 4. 1963-1966 Dart GT (Second Generation)
@@PRODUCT name="1963-1966 Dart GT (Second Generation)" img="https://bringatrailer.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/1966_dodge_dart_1966_dodge_dart_090cff39-b8db-4947-8074-ddffa3385f83-R5cUYU-68015-68016-scaled.jpg" site="https://qaqooking.wiki/all/how-to/1966-dodge-dart-gt"

When the Dart moved to a true **compact A-body** for 1963, the sporty **GT** trim brought bucket seats, brighter trim, and available V8 power. These early-1960s cars are charming, simpler than the later muscle variants, and increasingly collectible, especially the convertibles.

The **1963-1966 GT** can be found with the slant-six or the **273-cubic-inch V8**, and its clean, restrained styling has aged well. These are affordable entries into Mopar ownership that reward originality. Watch for **rust in the floors, trunk, and lower quarters**, the usual enemy of early-1960s unibody cars. A solid, rust-free GT convertible is a rewarding and appreciating classic.

## 5. 1972-1976 Dart Sport / Demon 340
@@PRODUCT name="1972-1976 Dart Sport / Demon 340" img="https://cdn.dealeraccelerate.com/gaa/52/30592/352567/1920x1440/1972-dodge-dart-demon" site="https://www.gaaclassiccars.com/vehicles/39174/1972-dodge-dart-demon"

The **Dart Sport** (and its 1971-1972 predecessor, the **Demon**) brought a sporty fastback body to the A-body line. The **Demon 340** and early **Dart Sport 360** versions offered real performance before tightening emissions regulations sapped output through the mid-1970s.

These cars are more affordable than GTS and Swinger 340 models and offer distinctive fastback styling that sets them apart from the standard sedans. The **Demon name** carries cult appeal among Mopar fans. Because performance dropped as the decade wore on, the earlier high-output V8 cars are the ones to seek. For a buyer who wants A-body character with a sportier silhouette at a friendly price, the Dart Sport is a strong choice.

## 6. 2015-2016 Dart 2.4L Tigershark (Best Modern Pick)
@@PRODUCT name="2015-2016 Dart 2.4L Tigershark (Modern, Best Modern Pick)" img="https://hips.hearstapps.com/amv-prod-cad-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/images/14q4/638369/2015-dodge-dart-24l-automatic-test-review-car-and-driver-photo-653193-s-original.jpg" site="https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2015-dodge-dart-24l-automatic-test-review"

Among the modern **2013-2016 Darts**, the **2015-2016 model with the 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder** and the conventional **six-speed automatic** is the most sensible pick. By this point Fiat-Chrysler had ironed out many early bugs, and the standard automatic sidesteps the troublesome dual-clutch unit found on some earlier cars.

The modern Dart's strengths are its **roomy interior, large trunk, and sharp styling** on a Fiat-derived platform. The 184-hp 2.4L delivers adequate, if unexciting, performance. These are inexpensive used cars today. For a budget commuter who wants a comfortable, well-equipped compact and is willing to keep up with maintenance, a clean **2015-2016 Tigershark Dart** is the smart modern choice.

## 7. 2014 Dart GT (Modern Performance Trim)
@@PRODUCT name="2014 Dart GT (Modern Performance Trim)" img="https://images.customwheeloffset.com/web-compressed/547031-5-2014-dart-dodge-gt-stock-stock-esr-sr05-black.jpg" site="https://www.customwheeloffset.com/wheel-offset-gallery/547031/2014-dodge-dart-esr-sr05-oem-stock-toyo-tires-proxes"

The modern **Dart GT** revived the sporty name with the **2.4L Tigershark**, a sport-tuned suspension, larger wheels, and a more aggressive look. It was the enthusiast's pick in the modern lineup, offering firmer handling and a better-equipped cabin than base models.

The GT could be had with the six-speed automatic or a **six-speed manual**, the latter appealing to drivers who want more engagement. It is not a fast car, but it is the most rounded modern Dart to drive. As with all modern Darts, **verify recall completion and confirm the electronics function**. For a buyer who wants the sportiest modern Dart at a low used price, the GT trim is the one to find.

## 8. 1960-1962 Dart (First Generation, Full-Size)
@@PRODUCT name="1960-1962 Dart (First Generation, Full-Size)" img="https://thumbs.dreamstime.com/z/red-full-size-american-sedan-dodge-dart-first-generation-red-full-size-american-sedan-dodge-dart-first-generation-her-time-310852785.jpg" site="https://www.dreamstime.com/red-full-size-american-sedan-dodge-dart-first-generation-red-full-size-american-sedan-dodge-dart-first-generation-her-time-image310852785"

The **original 1960-1962 Dart** was a full-size car, not a compact, and wore the bold, fin-laden styling of the era. Offered in Seneca, Pioneer, and Phoenix trims, it could be ordered with everything from the slant-six to big **361 and 383 V8s**, including rare high-performance versions.

These early Darts are distinctive period pieces with strong styling and genuine vintage appeal. They are rarer than later A-body cars and attract collectors who appreciate early-1960s design. **Rust and parts scarcity** are the main concerns, and restoration can be involved. For a buyer drawn to bold first-generation styling and willing to chase parts, a solid early Dart is a unique and characterful classic.

## 9. 2013 Dart 1.4L MultiAir Turbo (Caution)
@@PRODUCT name="2013 Dart 1.4L MultiAir Turbo (Caution)" img="https://images.gtcarlot.com/customgallery/engine/78234781.jpg" site="https://gtcarlot.com/engines/Dodge/Dart/2013/67072334/78234781.html"

The **2013 Dart with the 1.4L MultiAir turbocharged four-cylinder**, borrowed from the Fiat 500 Abarth, was marketed for efficiency. The turbo engine offers decent torque, but it is the riskiest modern Dart, especially when paired with the **dual-dry-clutch (DDCT) automated manual transmission**, which drew widespread complaints for jerky, unreliable behavior.

The 1.4T with a **manual transmission** is far more tolerable, but the DDCT cars should be approached with real caution and full service documentation. The early **2013 model year** also carried the most first-year bugs. **Only buy one with verified transmission service history**, and prefer the manual. For most buyers, the later 2.4L automatic Darts are a far safer modern choice.

## 10. 2013 Dart 2.0L Base (Modern Budget)
@@PRODUCT name="2013 Dart 2.0L Base (Modern Budget)" img="https://platform.cstatic-images.com/in/v2/stock_photos/98b1b3c0-be18-4c38-9efb-2d8d5ccc8d99/cb8f00d6-2010-48fe-8a0d-fe8ef4c8f52b.png" site="https://www.cars.com/research/dodge-dart-2013/"

The base **2.0L Tigershark four-cylinder** (around 160 hp) in the **2013 Dart** is the least powerful modern variant. It is adequate for commuting but feels underpowered in a car as large and heavy as the Dart, particularly with the automatic.

As the cheapest modern Dart, it makes sense only as bargain transportation. Like all first-year 2013 cars, it carries the most early-production quirks, so a clean maintenance record matters. **Inspect for electronics gremlins and confirm all recalls are closed.** A well-kept 2013 2.0L Dart can serve as basic, inexpensive transportation, but most shoppers will be happier stepping up to a 2.4L car.

```mermaid
graph TD
    A[Shopping for a Dodge Dart?] --> B{Classic or modern?}
    B -->|Classic A-body| C{Goal?}
    B -->|Modern 2013-2016| D{Engine?}
    C -->|Muscle / collectible| E[1968-1969 GTS or Swinger 340]
    C -->|Cheap reliable classic| F[225 slant-six sedan]
    D -->|Safe pick| G[2015-2016 2.4L automatic]
    D -->|1.4T DDCT| H[Verify transmission service]
    E --> I[Best overall: GTS]
    F --> J[Best value: slant-six]
```

## What to Watch For When Buying

- **Rust is the number-one enemy of classic A-body Darts.** Inspect the floor pans, trunk floor, lower quarter panels, and frame rails carefully, as unibody corrosion can be expensive to repair.
- **Verify originality on muscle variants.** For GTS, Swinger 340, and Demon/Dart Sport 340 cars, confirm the **fender tag, VIN, and any broadcast sheet** to ensure the engine and trim are correct, as clones and tribute cars are common.
- **The slant-six is famously durable**, but still check for oil leaks, cooling-system condition, and worn front-end components on high-mileage classics.
- **On modern 2013-2014 cars, the dual-dry-clutch (DDCT) transmission is the key risk.** Test for jerky shifts and demand transmission service records; prefer the conventional six-speed automatic or the manual.
- **Run the VIN through the NHTSA recall database** on any modern Dart, which had several recalls covering wiring, ignition, and other items, and confirm all are closed.
- **Check the electronics and Uconnect system** on modern cars, and verify the active grille shutters and other Fiat-derived components function.

## How to Choose

Match the Dart to your goal. For a **genuine collectible Mopar muscle car** with real performance and appreciating value, the **1968-1969 GTS** is the answer, followed by the **Swinger 340** as a lighter, cheaper alternative. For **cheap, dependable classic ownership**, nothing beats a **225 slant-six sedan**, which is simple, durable, and inexpensive to maintain. Early-1960s GT and full-size Darts appeal to buyers who prize **distinctive vintage styling**. Among modern cars, target a **2015-2016 2.4L Tigershark with the conventional automatic** for the best balance of reliability and value, and steer clear of the **1.4T DDCT** unless its service history is documented. In every case, prioritize rust-free bodies on classics and closed recalls on modern cars.

## FAQ

**What is the most reliable Dodge Dart engine?**  
The 225-cubic-inch slant-six from the classic era is widely regarded as Chrysler's most durable engine, often passing 200,000 miles with only basic maintenance. For the modern Dart, the 2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder is the most dependable choice, especially when paired with the conventional six-speed automatic rather than the dual-clutch unit.

**Which Dodge Dart model years should I avoid?**  
On the modern car, be most cautious with the 2013-2014 Darts equipped with the 1.4T dual-dry-clutch (DDCT) automated manual, which was prone to rough shifting and reliability complaints. Among classics, any rust-rotten example is best avoided, since corrosion in the floors and frame rails is the costliest problem to fix on an A-body Dart.

**Is the modern Dodge Dart a good used car?**  
The 2015-2016 Dart with the 2.4L engine and six-speed automatic makes a reasonable budget compact, with a roomy interior and a usable trunk. That said, overall reliability rates as average compared with rivals like the Honda Civic or Mazda3, and resale value is lower, which is exactly why these cars are cheap to buy used today.

**What makes the 1968-1969 Dart GTS so special?**  
These years combined a lightweight A-body platform with big-block V8 options like the 383 and the rare 440, delivering genuine muscle-car performance from a compact body. Their scarcity and factory high-performance credentials make verified, numbers-matching cars highly sought after by collectors, with strong values reported by sources like Hagerty for well-documented examples.

**How long do Dodge Dart slant-six engines last?**  
With regular oil changes and basic care, the 225 slant-six routinely reaches 200,000 to 300,000 miles without major internal repairs, thanks to its robust cast-iron construction and simple, low-stress design. Owners frequently report even higher mileage on well-maintained examples, which is a big part of the engine's enduring reputation.

**Are parts still available for classic Dodge Darts?**  
Yes. Parts availability is excellent for the 1960s-1970s Dart because it shares its A-body platform with the Plymouth Duster and Valiant, so mechanical and trim parts are interchangeable across a large pool of cars. Reproduction sheet metal, engine components, and interior parts are widely sold by Mopar specialty suppliers and online retailers.

## Bottom Line

The **Dodge Dart** spans two distinct eras, and choosing well means knowing which one you want. The **1968-1969 GTS is the best overall pick**, a true collectible Mopar muscle car, while a **durable 225 slant-six sedan offers the best value** for affordable classic ownership. The **Swinger 340** bridges performance and price beautifully. Among modern cars, a **2015-2016 2.4L Tigershark with the conventional automatic** is the safest buy, and the **1.4T DDCT** should be approached carefully. Inspect classics for rust and modern cars for closed recalls, and the Dart rewards you.

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## Sources

- Wikipedia — Dodge Dart classic and modern generations and specifications, en.wikipedia.org
- NHTSA — recall database for Dodge Dart by model year, nhtsa.gov
- Hagerty — classic Dodge Dart valuation and buyer guides, hagerty.com
- Edmunds — Dodge Dart (2013-2016) reviews and used-car appraisals, edmunds.com
- Kelley Blue Book — Dodge Dart used values by model year, kbb.com
- Car and Driver — Dodge Dart road tests and reviews, caranddriver.com

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