Dodge
Dart
Dodge
Monaco
Dodge Dart vs Dodge Monaco: 2013 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Dodge Dart comes out ahead of the Dodge Monaco on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Dart
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided, with owner experiences ranging from highly positive long-term reliability to severe and recurring mechanical failures. A subset of long-term owners report excellent dependability, with vehicles running "like new" for over a decade when meticulously maintained from new, achieving high fuel economy (40+ MPG highway) and requiring only basic maintenance. However, a very frequent and dominant theme in community feedback is significant and often catastrophic reliability issues, particularly with electrical systems, specific engines, and transmissions.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available for a definitive recommendation. One owner reported a positive long-term experience with a 2013 SXT trim.
Known issues
- ⚠Severe electrical system failures: symptoms include flickering/flashing instrument cluster, complete loss of power steering while driving, radio cutting out, and multiple warning lights (Service Electronic Braking System, Service Power Ste…
- ⚠2.4L MultiAir engine oil consumption: engine burns excessive oil, leading to very poor fuel economy (as low as 17 MPG reported) and potential engine damage. A software update and recall were issued to address this.
- ⚠DDCT (Dual Dry Clutch Transmission) failure: transmission began "acting up" around 200,000 miles, cited as a primary reason for selling the vehicle. Frequency: recurrent.
Monaco
Overall
Owner sentiment is neutral to negative, primarily based on historical anecdotes and comparisons to other classic vehicles. The model is frequently referenced as a quintessential example of a 1970s full-size American car and police cruiser, but direct ownership praise is scarce. It is recognized for its large engine availability, particularly the 440-cubic-inch V8, and its role as a platform for affordable classic car projects.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to designate a specific best model year or trim. The consensus from project-oriented discussions favors examples equipped with the large 440-cubic-inch V8 engine for performance potential.
Known issues
- ⚠Persistent electrical wiring problems: cited as a recurring issue across multiple Dodge products from the late 1970s and 1980s, including the Monaco. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠General neglect and poor condition in used examples: described with significant rust, very worn tires, and overall "shitbox" condition. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Dodge Dart is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Dodge Monaco, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Dodge Monaco is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Dodge Dart or the Dodge Monaco?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Dodge Dart and the Dodge Monaco. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Dodge Dart or the Dodge Monaco?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Dodge Dart is classed as a Coupe, the Dodge Monaco as a Sedan, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Dodge Dart or the Dodge Monaco?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Dodge Dart or the Dodge Monaco?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.