1972 Dodge Demon

Description

There are still very affordable ways to have a cool old car, and while this 1972 Dodge Dart Demon isn't a show piece, it does have V8 power and a lot of potential. As the big-dollar Mopars move farther out of reach, it's these quick little compacts that are benefitting the most because they deliver the same kind of fun for a fraction of the price.

OK, the beige paint isn't going to win any awards, but it's also a great Q-ship color, and this Dart has the potential to be something far greater than just a grocery-getter. It's been repainted at some point, but it was probably a long time ago and today it shows plenty of patina and that's just how we like it. Panel fit is pretty good, about what you got from Ma Mopar in 1972, and the chiseled looks of Dodge's compact still looks good today. There are no stripes, decals, or other add-ons, which is a nice surprise and the car has the look of a machine that has led a pretty easy life without ever being asked to work very hard. Original chrome and trim is in good order, the cool taillights are in great shape, and during the last repaint, it was de-badged a bit to give it a stealthy look. In short, it has a lot of potential to be something better than it is today.

The interior is completely original and it's remarkably well-preserved for its age. The high-back bench seat does a reasonable impersonation of bucket seats, so the Dart feels sporty inside without being overt about it. The vinyl upholstery is in great shape, a testament to the materials and care this car has received, and even the carpets are 1972-issue. There are a few signs of age, of course, but the overall preservation is pretty impressive. We suspect that the headliner has been replaced, because it's just too nice to be original, but beyond that, it remains as the factory intended. The instrument panel features a full array of Rallye gauges, a nice find on a car in this price class, and it's so original that even the factory AM radio still lives in the dash. The good-sized trunk wears its original mat that should probably be replaced.

A 318 cubic inch V8 engine makes the lightweight Dart a lot of fun to drive. It's been recently detailed and a little more time and elbow grease will pay big dividends by taking it to the next level. It is quite stock, so you know it hasn't been raced or abused and recent parts include belts, hoses, radiator, battery, and plug wires, so it's a great runner. The great thing about these cars is that they'll handle just about any engine you'd want, although the 318 is torquey and smooth so you might think twice about changing anything. It's backed by a 3-speed automatic transmission and the original rear end, and a brand new exhaust system gives it a pleasing V8 sound that's hushed at highway speeds. Factory steel wheels and hubcaps are perfect for keeping a low profile and wear recent whitewall radial tires that suit the car perfectly.

The price of entry is low and the whole world opens up with a car like this Dart Demon. Find out why so many Mopar guys love these little lightweight cruisers. Call today!