The Dodge Colt was a captive import, a rebadged Mitsubishi sold through Dodge dealerships starting in 1971. The first and second generations, based on the Mitsubishi Galant and Lancer respectively, offered American buyers a small, efficient rear-wheel-drive alternative to domestic cars. Available as a coupe, sedan, and wagon, these cars provided Japanese reliability and engineering in a package tailored for the fuel-conscious 1970s.
Today, the Colt is a niche collector car appreciated for its 1970s styling and simple RWD mechanics. So few have survived because they were inexpensive, daily-use cars that were prone to rust. Collectors seek out the sportier GT coupes, which are the most desirable models. With just 6 sales tracked recently, the market is small, and values are highly dependent on condition, originality, and body style. A top-condition GT can sell for over 10 times the price of a typical survivor.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the primary concern. Check thoroughly under the carpets, in the trunk, around the rocker panels, and at the base of the front and rear windows.
- Interior and exterior trim parts are nearly impossible to find. Prioritize a complete car, as sourcing missing badges, lenses, or interior plastics is a major challenge.
- The Mitsubishi-sourced 4-cylinder engines are durable, but check for signs of oil smoke, which could indicate worn valve seals. Parts availability can be limited, so a well-maintained example is key.
- On manual models, test for worn synchronizers, especially when shifting into 2nd gear. Listen for excessive noise from the rear differential.
Recent sales data shows prices ranging from $2,200 for projects to $25,000 for pristine, low-mileage examples.
44 Dodge Colt vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 17 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
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