The Best Years For Dodge Colt And Some To Avoid

The Dodge Colt, a rebadged Mitsubishi, holds a unique place in automotive history, representing a period of collaboration and fuel-efficient design. Understanding the specific years that offered the best combination of reliability, features, and value is crucial for enthusiasts looking to own a piece of this legacy or those seeking a practical and affordable classic car. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the Dodge Colt, highlighting the best years and pointing out models to potentially avoid.

Dodge Colt: Model Year Overview

Detailed Explanations

1971-1972 (First Generation): The first generation Dodge Colt was a simple, rear-wheel-drive car known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. Its basic design made it easy to maintain, but it lacked many modern features. Finding parts for these early models can be challenging due to their age.

1973-1977 (Second Generation): This generation saw improvements in comfort and offered larger engine options, making it a more refined vehicle. The styling was also updated, but early models were prone to rust, and some later models experienced engine issues.

1978-1981 (Third Generation): A significant shift to front-wheel drive improved fuel efficiency and handling. The introduction of a hatchback option increased practicality. However, the early front-wheel-drive systems had some reliability issues.

1982-1984 (Fourth Generation): This generation featured modern styling and an improved interior. The availability of a turbocharged engine provided a performance boost. However, the turbo models could be complex to maintain, and some rust issues persisted.

1985-1988 (Fifth Generation): This generation brought refined design, available 4WD, and improved fuel economy. The fifth generation Colts are considered by many to be the most reliable of the Dodge Colt line. However, some models experienced issues with the automatic transmission.

1989-1992 (Sixth Generation): The sixth generation featured more aerodynamic styling, an updated interior, and advanced features. While offering more modern amenities, these models could suffer from electrical issues, and parts availability can be a challenge due to their age and relative rarity.

1993-1994 (Seventh Generation/Eagle Summit): Rebadged as the Eagle Summit in its final years, this model was essentially a Mitsubishi Mirage. It offered a contemporary design and good fuel economy, but its reliability depended on the Mitsubishi Mirage's inherent qualities. It lacked the distinctive character of earlier Colt generations.

The Best Years: A Deeper Dive

While each generation of the Dodge Colt has its merits, certain years stand out as particularly desirable.

1985-1988 (Fifth Generation): The Sweet Spot

These years represent a sweet spot in the Dodge Colt's history. They offer a good balance of reliability, fuel efficiency, and available features. The 1985-1988 Colt is often cited as one of the most reliable of the Dodge Colt range.

• Reliability: The 1985-1988 Colts are generally considered more reliable than earlier generations, benefiting from improvements in manufacturing processes and technology. The engines were durable, and the overall build quality was good.
• Fuel Efficiency: These models offered excellent fuel economy, making them ideal for commuting and everyday driving. The smaller engines were particularly efficient.
• Available 4WD: The availability of a 4WD option made these Colts suitable for driving in various weather conditions. This feature was especially appealing in regions with snow or rain.
• Modern Features: While not luxurious, these Colts offered basic modern features such as air conditioning, power steering, and a decent sound system.

Why These Years?

The 1985-1988 Dodge Colt benefited from several factors:

• Mature Design: By this point in the Colt's lifecycle, Mitsubishi had refined the design and addressed many of the issues that plagued earlier models.
• Improved Manufacturing: Manufacturing processes had improved over time, resulting in better build quality and fewer defects.
• Reliable Engines: The engines used in these Colts were known for their durability and longevity, provided they were properly maintained.

Potential Drawbacks:

Despite their strengths, the 1985-1988 Colts are not without their potential drawbacks:

• Age: These cars are now over 30 years old, so finding one in good condition can be challenging.
• Parts Availability: While some parts are still available, others may be difficult to find.
• Automatic Transmission Issues: As previously mentioned, some models experienced issues with the automatic transmission.

1971-1972 (First Generation): A Classic Choice

For those seeking a truly classic car experience, the first-generation Dodge Colt can be a rewarding choice.

• Simplicity: The simple design of these cars makes them easy to work on and maintain.
• Reliability: The engines are generally reliable, provided they are properly maintained.
• Classic Styling: The rear-wheel-drive layout and basic styling give these cars a unique charm.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Basic Features: These cars lack many modern features, such as air conditioning and power steering.
• Parts Availability: Finding parts for these early models can be challenging.
• Safety Concerns: Safety standards were lower in the early 1970s, so these cars may not be as safe as modern vehicles.

Years to Potentially Avoid (and Why)

While every Dodge Colt has its fans, some years are generally considered less desirable due to reliability issues or other factors.

1973-1977 (Second Generation): Rust and Engine Issues

Early models were prone to rust, a common problem for cars of that era. Later models experienced some engine issues, reducing their overall reliability.

1978-1981 (Third Generation): Early FWD Troubles

The transition to front-wheel drive was a significant change, and the early FWD systems in these Colts experienced some reliability issues. The design, while fuel efficient, was also somewhat bland.

1989-1992 (Sixth Generation): Electrical Problems and Parts Scarcity

Although the Sixth Generation had more modern features, they are plagued by electrical problems and finding parts could be a challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the 1985-1988 Dodge Colt the best years? These years offer a great balance of reliability, fuel efficiency, and available features, making them a practical and enjoyable classic car.

Are Dodge Colts reliable cars? Some years are more reliable than others. The 1985-1988 models are generally considered the most reliable.

What are some common problems with Dodge Colts? Common problems include rust, automatic transmission issues, and electrical problems, depending on the year.

Are parts readily available for Dodge Colts? Parts availability can be a challenge, especially for older models. Sourcing parts from online retailers and junkyards may be necessary.

Is it worth buying a Dodge Colt today? If you're looking for a fuel-efficient, affordable classic car, a well-maintained Dodge Colt can be a good option. However, consider the age and potential maintenance costs.

What is the fuel economy like on a Dodge Colt? Depending on the year and engine, Dodge Colts can achieve excellent fuel economy, often exceeding 30 MPG.

Conclusion

The Dodge Colt offers a glimpse into automotive history, with certain years standing out as particularly desirable. The 1985-1988 models represent a sweet spot in terms of reliability and features, while the first-generation models offer a classic car experience. Careful research and inspection are essential when considering a Dodge Colt, ensuring that you choose a model that meets your needs and expectations.