1986 Dodge Daytona Turbo Z 2.2 Liter turbo 5 speed from North America

Summary:

Domestics like this made Honda famous

Faults:

Plastic trim fell off everywhere, inside and out.

Clutch failed 15,000 miles - couldn't shift into first at a traffic light without gear noise.

Brake rotors warped at 30,000 miles.

Transmission main shaft chattered when idling in neutral.

Steering rack failed at 33,000 miles.

Rear spoiler fell off in an automatic car wash.

General Comments:

This parts bin engineered pile of dung is basically a K-car with a souped up engine and a very fancy body. Most of the affair was bound together with double sided tape - inside and out. The balance of the interior was snapped together with plastic push pins.

Every trip through an automatic car wash sent me back to the bay to collect body parts torn off, then to the dealer for repairs. No body integrity at all. Any crack in the road set off a symphony of chirps, squeaks and rattles.

The engine ran very strong thanks to the turbocharger and Bosch fuel injection. The transmission, steering, suspension and brakes were junk. The car handled very well, but was extremely harsh over bumps.

Poorly built and not backed at all by the dealer or the factory. Nothing but lip service and excuses.

A few of the last faded survivors are still hobbling around, usually belching smoke.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 24th October, 2002

4th Oct 2003, 23:04

Stop using the automatic wash. They were made for lazy people who don't care about cars. All cars in 86 were put together with plastic and glue. Less weight saves on gas so says the gov. Go figure. I have a 86 turbo z c.s. I bought new and it is not perfect, but almost. Must be the owner. Take care of it and it will take care of you. Anything will fail with constant abuse. Ride those brakes threw the automatic and you will be picking up more parts and more rotors. Also I recommend you change the oil every 3000 miles not when the oil light comes on. Turbos hate dirty oil. Use synthetic if its in your budget. Won't a really falling apart 1986 pile of junk? Buy a camaro. The parts are cheaper or should I say less money.

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1986 Dodge Daytona Turbo Z C/S 2.2 liter turbo 4 cylinder from North America

Summary:

It may have cost me over $4000.00, but it was money well spent

Faults:

I had the engine completely rebuilt at 128,000 miles.

Two days ago, I blew the transmission, so a new one is going in tomorrow.

All it needs now is, a new A/C compressor, and a repaint.

General Comments:

For a 4 cylinder turbo charged car, it's very quick, and sometimes scary to drive, because it's so fast, for a front wheel drive car that is.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 17th October, 2001

31st Oct 2001, 13:26

I agree. I am on my second one now. Both have had well over 100K, and run great. The one I currently own needs a clutch, and that's about it. Very fast, and handles like a DREAM!

10th Jan 2002, 09:59

Mine is a mint piece of machine, it's cherry red, everything is stock, never rolled over, it only has 65k on it. I don't think I'll ever sell it, it's never seen salt or snow, barely ever rain, and that's only to get it home if it starts raining.

I love it, hope you all enjoy the turbos!!!

19th Jun 2003, 19:42

Had no problems yet after 160k k/m's I'm always working on it though, adding things it don't need. I love my daytona and it handles unbelievable . I also get a kick out of that turbo boost too.

20th Oct 2003, 13:42

Hi my name is Travis and my daytona is the pride and joy of my life. I have spent about $2000 so far, but when I am done this car will be worth about $10,000. This car is going to have a 4 inch hood scoop. Its white with tinted windows. i am considering selling it now. Offers?

3rd Jul 2008, 21:24

I have a'86 Daytona Turbo Z with 51,000 miles and never seen snow. I will probably give to my son. My wife & I love the car. We are the 3rd owners.