1990 Dodge Daytona Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
This 3-door sporty hatchback takes its cues from its classic name, which originally appeared as part of the 1969 Charger Daytona line. It...
This 3-door sporty hatchback takes its cues from its classic name, which originally appeared as part of the 1969 Charger Daytona line. It is a smoking little car, fast on its feet, but not skimping on a comfortable driving experience. Plus, it gets decent gas mileage for a sports car, at about 21/28 mpg.
Available in base, ES, and Shelby trims, in normal or turbo engines, the 1990 Daytona is fast. Depending on your need for speed, you can choose from various 4-cylinder engines, including the 2.2-liter 93-hp or its Turbo I version at 142-hp, the base 2.5-liter 100-hp or its turbocharged version at 152-hp (available only in ES and Shelby trims), or the Turbo II 2.2-liter 174-hp. New for 1990 is a turbocharged 2.2-liter, 174-hp VNT Turbo IV engine only in the Shelbys and only as a manual. This engine was dropped not too long after, and so it is a very rare find. Also new is a a bigger 3.0-liter V6 engine, rated at 141-hp. ABS is standard on ES and Shelby trims.
The interior of the Daytona was redesigned in 1990 in cockpit fashion, with the addition of a driver's side airbag, and a new dashboard and steering wheel. The 1990 Daytona is the last to feature both C/S (Carroll Shelby) Packages, the Performance and Competition. Offered with base models, these performance packages included rear spoiler, high performance suspension and braking (similar to the Shelby), a Turbo I or II engine, and the appropriate C/S badges.
The car is fast, and that's why drivers like it. It takes turns well and easily outraces the competition. Many drivers praise its dependability. Downsides are a cramped, almost useless backseat, problems with the paint chipping off, and difficulty finding after-market parts.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 1990 Dodge Daytona appreciate its unique presence on the road, quick throttle response, and good performance, especially in cornering and acceleration. Many drivers highlight its power and sporty feel, often putting it above competitors, particularly in its class. However, some note concerns about reliability, with issues related to transmission and the availability of parts becoming challenges. Despite these drawbacks, the Daytona remains a beloved choice for those who enjoy a fun driving experience."
I've owned this car for 12 yrs. I'll admit, it's cost me a lot to keep her running but part of this was because the previous owners ran her hard and did not take care of her as I do. I just had her repainted, and some interior work done. She performs so well I want to keep her a long, long time. It's been worth holding on to this car but parts are getting increasingly hard to locate.
December 1, 2010I love the fact that this particular model is rare enough that you never see another one on the road. It has a very quick throttle response,brake and excellent in cornering. I would love to see if it really does 130 mph.
November 24, 2007It was a great first car for me for the $1000 I paid but would of liked more out of it. The trans went bad and he gauges were beginning to go bad. Gas wasn't too bad would of liked better. Car was quite strong though, I got hit twice and you could barely tell, they sure don't build cars as strong anymore. Performace wise it sucked. Absolutely sucked.
July 8, 2011
