1984 Dodge Charger 2.2L NA
Summary:
Wicked fun, reliable, and economical sports car
Faults:
Replaced the radiator in 2003.
Replaced the original enginer at 138,000.
AC stopped working in 2001.
Replaced alternator brushes at 148,000.
Replaced power steering rack in 2004.
Replaced hatch struts in 2003.
General Comments:
Wonderful little sports car, very fast 0-60 time, but very easy on gas, I often got 34MPG, once 37MPG on a long trip.
The 5-speed transmission is very durable and shifted well, even in very cold weather. Shift rod linkage wasn't the best, but not too bad.
Engine was unbeatable, very good torque and just wanted to go and go.
Handled pretty well considering what it was, improved with "Shelby" suspension components I salvaged from the Shelby Charger - quick ratio steering rack, stiffer springs front and rear, and larger sway bar.
Interior headroom for rear passengers was not good if you were tall. But driver's position was very good for me at 6'.
Lots of cargo space with the fold down rear seat.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 16th February, 2005
18th Feb 2005, 19:25
Isn't it unbelievable what some people consider to be "sports cars"?
I guess they're not hurting anybody and they're making themselves feel better about what they are driving.
But it sure does look silly to see it in print.
21st Apr 2005, 19:56
Park an Omni beside a charger of the same year and see how similar they are! they are based on the same platform other than that there are very drastic differences. please compare it to the Sports cars of its era! if the charger is not a sports car I am not sure what is!
22nd Apr 2005, 16:54
It doesn't matter whether it is a real "sports car". It is a decent compromise between performance, economy and practicality.
Having owned and used mine daily since new for 21 years I know it goes well, with more than enough acceleration from the 2.2 with the 5 speed. It is much better than the similar looking 4 cylinder Ford Mustang of the same era.
You can drive at 75mph with the windows open and don't get buffeted by wind, which is great for a fun drive in good weather.
Also, you would need to have a new hybrid or a diesel to get better highway gas mileage (5.1 l/100km as quoted by Transport Canada).
The hatchback is practical enough to hold a bicycle or skis or some 8 foot 2x4s or even a rented concrete mixer, with the hatch shut.
It has no dollar value, but it works for me and that's what matters.
17th Feb 2005, 06:59
Your Charger has the same chassis and powertrain as the Dodge Omni.
So that means the Omni is a "sports car" too, right?