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Nicely Optioned: 1975 Dodge Dart Sport

While many buyers viewed the 1975 Dodge Dart as affordable family transport they could purchase on a tight budget, others wanted creature comforts to make life aboard one of these classics a pleasant affair. That appears to be the case with our feature car. It is unlikely to be mistaken for the latest offering from Cadillac, but it also isn’t a bare-bones vehicle. It is a solid and clean car needing little beyond a new home. Therefore, the seller has listed the Dart Sport here on eBay in Springfield, Oregon. Bidding sits below the reserve at $6,100, with time remaining for interested parties to stake their claim.

Dodge introduced the Fourth Generation Dart to the buying public in 1967, and the extended production run meant the last ones drove off the showroom floor in 1976. The original owner ordered our feature Dart Sport in 1975, electing to cloak its panels in stunning Yellow Blaze paint. They added a Black vinyl top, matching side tape stripes, and bright wheel arch moldings to this. I believe the Rallye wheels are a later addition because the Sport package brought full wheel covers as standard equipment. Finding anything to criticize about this Dart’s presentation is difficult. The paint shines nicely, and neither it nor the panels show signs of significant flaws or issues. The vinyl is in as-new condition, and a previous owner performed a light cosmetic restoration that included replicating the original side stripes in paint protected by a clear coat. The underside shots confirm the only rust is a small area on the passenger-side front floor from a previous windshield leak. However, it appears to be patchable without needing to replace the entire floor pan. The trim and glass are as spotless as the rest of the exterior, and while the wheels aren’t original, I think they perfectly suit this car’s character.

The Sport Package didn’t merely bring exterior cosmetic enhancements because the interior received its share of attention. Faux woodgrain trim found its way onto the dash, doors, and rear seat trims, and carpet matching the trim color covered the floors. The driver gripped a three-spoke wheel while two-speed wipers and windshield washers rounded out the package. The original owner enhanced the interior with luxury touches like air conditioning, The “Space Maker” fold-down rear seat, the Fuel Pacer light system, a remote driver’s exterior mirror, and an AM radio. I admire the seller’s honesty because they admit the interior isn’t perfect. However, if considered a driver-grade classic, its condition is easily acceptable. The only significant flaws worth noting are a slight carpet fit issue on the passenger side front floor and some stretching on the lower driver’s door trim. Otherwise, the Black vinyl upholstered surfaces are free from obvious major rips and physical damage, there are no dash or pad problems or aftermarket additions.

The original owner may have focused on occupant comfort when ordering this Dart Sport, but they selected the most sedate drivetrain combination available in 1975. The engine bay houses the venerable 225ci slant-six that sends 90 hp and 165 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission. They ticked the box beside power steering on the Order Form, and while the photos confirm the car features front disc brakes, I can’t spot a booster suggesting they feature the power assistance mentioned by the seller. As mechanical packages go, they don’t come much more robust than this. The seller claims the Dart has 43,000 miles on the clock, and the indications are that the figure is documented. It runs and drives perfectly, making it a turnkey proposition for its new owner.

This 1975 Dodge Dart Sport won’t suit an enthusiast seeking a high-performance model, but it could be an ideal and affordable option for someone considering a first classic purchase. Its needs are relatively minor, and addressing them during the cold winter months would have this gem ready for action when the sun shows its face next summer. The market can spring unexpected surprises, but I doubt the bidding on this beauty will climb far into five-figure territory. Monitoring this auction could be worthwhile if you are an enthusiast with a tight budget. This Dodge might be the car you’ve been searching for.

Comments

  1. Robert Proulx

    This one is nice and the slant-six and torqueflite will last forever. About the only thing i’d do is get a power brake setup on this.

    Like 1
  2. Nelson C

    When equipped with a sunroof and folding rear seat it was the Convertriple. Part convertible, part hatchback and sporty coupe. You had to use your imagination but in this market it was an edge. Love the black and yellow. Would be a fun car.

    Like 0
  3. Chris Cornetto

    Just nice, what else can I say.

    Like 0
  4. ALKY

    I owned the 1975 Plymouth Duster model , but it had a 318 ci . It was a fantastic car and I still have the dent in my ass from kicking it for getting rid of it.

    Like 0

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