1992 Dodge Daytona IROC 3.0 V6 from North America
Summary:
Very reliable, fun and great on gas
Faults:
When I first bought it, it was sitting for at least two years. It started right up with no missing. I had to tow it home, because the brakes were stuck. So I replaced the stuck caliper and all the brake fluid.
Drove it for a week, then all the engine seals except for the rear main let go. So I took it off the road for a little bit to fix them. Started driving it again; no problems for several months. Then a front tire got a huge lump in it. So I replaced all the tie rods, ball joints and wheel bearings all around.
So now I'm thinking the car is running and handling great, why not see why the A/C isn't working? I decided since all the components were cheap, I would just replace everything. So the A/C is ice cold now.
I haven't had to do much after the first 6 months I had it, other than put gas in it and go. I drive it about three days a week, and when I do, it's for long distances.
It's starting to pass oil through the cam seals again, which is common for these engines. Also, in cooler weather, the serpentine squeals a little.
General Comments:
I bought it because I needed a cheap car for a new job right away. I couldn't afford to drive my truck. It is cheap to drive and maintain now. I've also got a 1997 Prelude now, and the Dodge seems to get way better gas mileage. I get over 30 MPG consistently on the highway at 70 mph.
If you can find one and have basic mechanical skills, get one. They aren't worth much, so watch what you spend if you are worried about resale later.
The Mitsubishi 3.0 V6 is pretty well bulletproof, but carry a quart of oil with you all the time! I think the HP rating is slightly lower than advertised - with the 5-speed.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 24th June, 2012