Dodge Dart IV Swinger Hardtop (facelift 1970) 5.2 V8 (230 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.4 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.0 / 5
Value 3.5 / 5
Performance 3.8 / 5
Comfort 3.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Dodge Dart:

The Dodge Dart is a line of passenger cars produced by Dodge from the 1959 to 1976 model years in North America, with production extended to later years in various other markets.
The production Dodge Dart was introduced as a lower-priced full-size model in 1960 and 1961, but became a mid-size car for one model year for 1962, and was then reduced to a compact for two generations, from 1963 to 1976.
Chrysler had first used 'Dart' name plates on two Italian styled show cars, in 1956 and 1957, before it became a Dodge model name. The Dart nameplate was resurrected for a Fiat-derived compact car that was introduced in 2012....(Read more on Wikipedia)

IV Swinger Hardtop (facelift 1970) Overview:

Dodge Dart (IV Swinger Hardtop (facelift 1970)). With 461 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

5.2 V8 (230 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

The 5.2L (318 ci) V8 engine provided robust power for its time, offering strong acceleration and a classic muscle car feel. While not a top-tier performance engine, it was a solid, dependable performer for the Dart.

Fuel Economy

Typical for a carbureted V8 of the era, fuel economy is poor by modern standards, likely in the low teens (MPG). Expect frequent stops at the pump.

Best Use Case: Cruising, classic car shows, occasional spirited driving on highways.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Classic American V8 sound and feel
  • • Relatively simple and robust mechanicals
  • • Distinctive styling and compact muscle car appeal
  • • Good parts availability for restoration

Cons:

  • • Very poor fuel economy
  • • Outdated safety features by modern standards
  • • Basic interior amenities
  • • Handling and braking are not on par with modern vehicles

Specifications:

General:
Brand:Dodge
Model:Dart
Generation:IV Swinger Hardtop (facelift 1970)
Modification (Engine):5.2 V8 (230 Hp)
Start of production:1970
End of production:1973
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Coupe
Seats:5
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:230 Hp @ 4400 rpm.
Power per litre:44.1 Hp/l
Torque:461 Nm
Engine Model/Code:LA 318
Engine displacement:5211
Number of cylinders:8
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Carburettor
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:OHV
Engine oil capacity:4.7 l
Coolant:15.1 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:99.31 mm mm
Piston Stroke:84.07 mm mm
Compression ratio:8.6:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Space:
Fuel tank capacity:54 l
Size:
Length:4978 mm mm
Width:1770 mm mm
Height:1346 mm mm
Wheelbase:2819 mm mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears3
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesDrum
Rear brakesDrum
Tires size185/70 R14
Wheel rims size4.5J x 14
Front suspensionTorsion
Rear suspensionLeaf spring

Does the Dodge Dart live up to the hype? Give us your verdict!