1984 Dodge Daytona Turbo

Dodge introduced the Daytona in 1984 and it would remain part of the lineup through 1993, produced alongside the similarly-styled and more upscale Chrysler Laser (produced from 1984 to 1986 and billed as the Chrysler brand's first sports car). The front-engine, front-wheel-drive hatchback was based on the Chrysler G platform, which was derived from the Chrysler K platform. Power was initially sourced from the 2.2-liter Chrysler K engine in either a turbocharged or naturally aspirated configuration. The styling was sleek, aerodynamic, and low-slung. It had a large rear hatchback, a rear deck-lid spoiler, and a drag coefficient of 0.35.

The Dodge Daytona rested on a 97-inch wheelbase platform which was slightly larger than the 96.6-inch wheelbase of the Charger and the 99.1-inch wheelbase of the Omni. The 135 cubic-inch four-cylinder engine was installed in the Daytona, 600 Sedan, Shelby Charger, Aires, and Charger in various configurations. It was also optional on the Omni. The 600 sedan and Daytona used the electronic fuel injection version which delivered 99 horsepower at 5,600 RPM and 121 lb-ft of torque at 3,200 RPM. With the help of a turbocharger, output rose to 142 bhp at 5,600 RPM and torque to 160 lb-ft at 3,200 RPM. The engine was backed by a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission and stopping power was by disc brakes in the front and drums at the rear.

The Daytona represented Dodge's first turbocharged front-wheel-drive vehicle, and its improved performance did not sacrifice fuel economy, still delivering an EPA mileage estimate of 22 mph and 35 on the highway. The turbocharged system was developed by Garrett AIResearch and delivered 75 psi maximum boost and included a water-cooled turbine end-shaft bearing. They used a detonation sensor and could operate on no-lead regular gasoline, although factory literature recommended premium fuel. Additional improvements to the engine included dish-top pistons, an 8.0:1 compression ratio, an improved camshaft, a larger oil pump, tighter internal sealing, and a low-restriction exhaust system.

With the turbocharger installed (RPO AGT), the list of standard equipment included 60-series 15-inch Goodyear Eagle GT tires, aluminum wheels, performance seats, gas-filled shocks, higher spring rates, larger stabilizer bars, and a performance handling package. The interior received Turbo dashes with analog gauges, and turbo seats with inflatable lumbar/thigh support bolster. The Turbo Z (RPO AGS) added two-tone paint and a deep airdam, tape stripes, bodyside moldings, ground-effects rocker extensions, and a unique rear spoiler.

All Dodge Daytona models came with bucket seats in the front and rear, and a center console. The non-turbo Daytona hatchback had a base price of $8,300 and the turbocharged version listed for 10,227. Dodge produced 21,916 examples of the naturally aspirated version and 27,431 examples with the turbocharger for its inaugural year on the market.

by Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2021