1988 Dodge Daytona

A sporty engine and styling turn the 1988 Dodge Daytona hatchback into an affordable little personal racer.  With the turbo engine options, the Daytona is a mini-jet off the line, generally holding its own with the V8 big boys.  While not a sports car per se, it still offers a lot of thrills, and its great fuel economy and inexpensive cost appeal to those looking for fun without damaging the wallet.

No big changes for the 1988 Daytona.  It is offered in three trims.  The base features a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder, 100-hp engine.  The high-end Pacifica is powered by a 2.2-liter, 4-cylinder, Turbo I and reaches 146-hp.  The sports-tuned Shelby Z is the fastest of the Daytonas, a nice road burner despite its heavy size.  A 2.2-liter, intercooled Turbo II rated at 174-hp sits under the hood.  Its massive weight sometimes counteracted the Shelby refinements, so in 1988 Dodge offered a C/S Package (Carroll Shelby) on its lightest weight base Daytona.  Available with either the Turbo I or II engines, the C/S featured the performance tuned brakes, suspension, tires, and exhaust that were standard on the Shelby Z.  Rear spoiler, hood scoop, supportive seats, and appropriate badging went along for the ride.  

Most owners love their 1998 Daytonas, especially the zippy Shelby Z.  The Daytona is affordable and has inexpensive parts for easy modifications (the Shelby parts are a bit harder to find).  It handles well and corners precisely, the gas mileage is a huge plus, and the interior is nicely designed.  Owners find the driver's seat extremely comfortable, while the rear passenger seats are unfit for adults.  Another benefit of the Daytona is it's a fast, sporty car without being classified as such by insurance companies, so it makes for a fun first car.  Complaints center on the cheap-looking interior, the lack of power if you don't have a turbo, and difficulty getting in and out of the car.  Reliability ratings are inconsistent, with some saying their Daytona has lasted for years with minimal repairs and others saying they've spent too much time in the shop.