| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1974 |
The 1974 Dodge Dart IV Swinger Hardtop coupe represents the final facelift iteration of the Dart IV generation, showcasing a classic muscle car aesthetic popular in the early 1970s. Dodge retained the signature styling elements of the Swinger while enhancing certain exterior details for the 1974 model year. As a hardtop coupe, this Dart generation combined sporty design with practical dimensions suited for both daily driving and spirited performance. While exact metric and imperial size data for this facelifted Swinger model can vary slightly based on configuration, the Dart IV series typically measured around 5 meters (approximately 197 inches) in length, about 1.8 meters (71 inches) in width, and a height near 1.35 meters (53 inches). These dimensions offered a balanced road presence, neither overly bulky nor compact. The Swinger's hardtop design eliminated the structural support post between the front and rear side windows, providing a sleeker side profile and an airy cabin feel when windows were down. The car's weight ranged close to 1,340 kilograms (2,954 pounds), depending on engine and trim specifics, which impacted its agile handling and acceleration capabilities. The 1974 facelift improved the grille and lighting elements, refreshing the front fascia while maintaining the muscular, aggressive stance the Dart was known for in its muscle car heyday. Overall, the Dodge Dart IV Swinger Hardtop remains a celebrated classic coupe, notable for its combination of size, style, and performance, offering enthusiasts a compelling blend of vintage American muscle and everyday usability.
Discover the standout features that make the 1974 Dodge Dart IV Swinger Hardtop a leader in its class
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The 1974 Dodge Dart IV Swinger Hardtop features an overall length of approximately 5,002 mm (197 inches), a width of about 1,829 mm (72 inches), and a height near 1,345 mm (53 inches). These dimensions categorize it as a mid-sized coupe of its era, with a length that offered comfortable cabin space without being overly large for typical American city and suburban streets. Its width provides good stability and shoulder room inside, while the relatively low height contributes to its sleek, sporty profile as a hardtop coupe.
The 1974 Dodge Dart IV Swinger Hardtop weighs approximately 1,452 kg (3,200 lbs). This weight is moderate for a mid-1970s American coupe, balancing structural rigidity and performance. The weight influences the vehicle's handling by providing stability at moderate speeds but can reduce acceleration and fuel efficiency compared to lighter cars. Given the weight and typical engine options of the time, fuel efficiency would have been modest, with expectations of around 12-17 mpg (about 5-7 L/100 km) depending on driving conditions and engine choice.
While exact interior cabin length figures for the 1974 Dodge Dart IV Swinger Hardtop are not typically specified, the vehicle's overall size and mid-sized coupe status indicate reasonably spacious seating for four passengers. The hardtop design, without a fixed B-pillar, enhances the feeling of openness inside. Front and rear legroom would be typical for a mid-70s compact to midsize coupe, enabling comfortable seating for adults in both rows, with the front bucket seats and a rear bench seat arranged to maximize interior space.
Yes, the 1974 Dodge Dart IV Swinger Hardtop fits into a standard residential garage, which typically measures about 2,400 mm (8 feet) wide and 4,800 to 6,000 mm (16 to 20 feet) long. With an overall length of approximately 5,002 mm (197 inches or 16.4 feet) and a width of 1,829 mm (72 inches or 6 feet), the car fits comfortably within those dimensions, leaving some extra space for maneuvering. Its height of 1,345 mm (53 inches) also ensures clearance under most garage door heights, which are generally about 2,133 mm (7 feet).
In comparison to its predecessor, the earlier Dodge Dart versions (early 1970s models), the 1974 Dart IV Swinger Hardtop maintained a similar mid-sized footprint but featured subtle styling and dimension updates due to the facelift. The overall length and width remained fairly close to previous generations, preserving the Dart’s identity as a compact to midsize car. Notable design changes included revised front and rear styling and minor dimensional tweaks to accommodate new safety standards and styling trends. The weight also slightly increased due to added safety features and structural reinforcements.
Compared to other mid-1970s American coupes like the Chevrolet Nova, Ford Maverick, and Plymouth Duster, the 1974 Dodge Dart IV Swinger Hardtop falls into a similar mid-size category. Its length of approximately 5,002 mm (197 inches) and width of 1,829 mm (72 inches) are very competitive with these rivals, offering slightly more length than some compact models like the Maverick but comparable width. The Dart’s hardtop styling and weight place it in line with competitors that aimed to balance sporty appeal with practical dimensions for American families and young drivers.
The 1974 Dodge Dart IV Swinger Hardtop features a reasonably sized trunk for a coupe of its size, offering around 360 to 420 liters (12.7 to 14.8 cubic feet) of cargo capacity. This space is typical for mid-1970s coupes and is suitable for everyday errands, luggage for road trips, or moderate storage needs. The hardtop design does not compromise trunk access or volume compared to sedans, and the rear seats can sometimes be folded down (depending on the precise trim and modifications) to extend cargo capacity for larger items.
The 1974 Dodge Dart IV Swinger Hardtop has a wheelbase of about 2,743 mm (108 inches). This moderate wheelbase length provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. A longer wheelbase generally enhances ride quality by smoothing out road irregularities, while a shorter wheelbase offers more nimble handling and quicker turning response. For the Dart Swinger Hardtop, the 108-inch wheelbase contributed to a stable and comfortable driving experience appropriate for a family-oriented coupe with some sporty intentions.
The 1974 Dodge Dart IV Swinger Hardtop stands at approximately 1,345 mm (53 inches) in height, with typical ground clearance in the range of 140-160 mm (5.5-6.3 inches), although exact ground clearance figures might vary depending on suspension setup and tire sizes. The relatively low height contributes to the car’s sporty, sleek profile, improving aerodynamics and lowering center of gravity for better handling. The clearance is adequate for standard road conditions, though care is required on rough terrain or over high curbs. The coupe’s design conveniently balances style with practical usability.
Owners looking to improve space or comfort in the 1974 Dodge Dart IV Swinger Hardtop often consider seat upgrades or refurbishments to modern materials for better ergonomics and support. Interior insulation and soundproofing improvements can enhance cabin quietness, which is important given the classic hardtop’s potential for road noise. Some also explore trunk organization accessories to make the best use of cargo space. While the car’s dimensions limit expansions, carefully chosen modern aftermarket parts can improve driver and passenger comfort without altering the original classic styling.
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