Dodge Dart (2nd generation)
The polarizing 'Jet Age' Mopar that pioneered the B-body platform.
- Power
- 230 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.0 s
- Top speed
- 100 mph
- Est. value
- $16k–$48k
About the Dodge Dart
The 1962 Dodge Dart represents a unique, single-year transition where the nameplate was applied to a downsized mid-size platform before becoming a compact in 1963. Its radical styling, penned under Virgil Exner, featured a distinctive 'plucked chicken' look with asymmetrical headlamps and jet-inspired rear quarters that proved polarizing at launch. Underneath the controversial skin, it utilized the new lightweight B-body unibody architecture, offering significantly improved handling and power-to-weight ratios over its predecessors. The 5.2-litre 'A-series' V8, known as the 'Poly' for its polyspherical combustion chambers, provided reliable torque and served as the mainstay of the range.
Dodge Dart specs
The Dodge Dart produces 230 bhp (172 kW) and 461 Nm (340 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.0 seconds and has a top speed of 100 mph (161 km/h).
| Make | Dodge |
|---|---|
| Model | Dart |
| Generation | Second Generation (2nd generation) |
| Trim | 5.2 |
| Years | 1962 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $2,400 when new |
| Engine | 5.2-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,211 cc (5.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 230 bhp (172 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 461 Nm (340 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 12.0 s |
| Top speed | 100 mph (161 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,360 kg (2,998 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 169 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Dodge Dart worth?
A typical Dodge Dart is estimated to be worth $16,000 – $48,000 (about £12,000 – £36,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,400.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Dodge Dart rarity in CarSpot
The Dodge Dart is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 28 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Dodge Dart fun facts
- The 1962 Dart was so drastically downsized that Dodge dealers complained, forcing Chrysler to rush the full-size Custom 880 into production mid-year using a Chrysler body.
- The 318 cubic-inch 'Poly' V8 engine in this model is distinct from the later, more common LA-series 318 that debuted in the late 1960s.
- Despite its mid-size positioning, the 1962 Dart could be ordered with the fearsome 413 'Max Wedge' V8, making it a dominant force in early 1960s drag racing.
