Original Paint and Stock: 1986 Dodge Daytona Turbo Z

We have discussed the difference in eyeball appeal of the “four-eyed” Ford Mustang at length; so how do we feel about the same distinction between different eras of the Dodge Daytona? Flip-up headlights are indeed associated with peak 80s/90s style, but the fixed halogen lamps that adorned so many domestic vehicles are also symbolic of an era that was still getting its footing style-wise. Regardless of where you stand on the matter, this 1986 Dodge Daytona Turbo Z listed here on craigslist is likely one of the best examples left in stock condition with original paint.

The seller is asking $7,500 for this survivor coupe, which still bears the original dealer emblem on the left rear top of the tailgate. The 1980s were not kind to performance cars of any variety, with a few exceptions, but it was especially hard to find vehicles on a tight budget that could deliver the thrills we all enjoy. Thanks to Carroll Shelby, Chrysler became a beacon of hope for those car shoppers not ready to step up to a Lamborghini Countach. The entire lineup of front-wheel drive, turbocharged hot hatches and econoboxes was a quick tune and some bolt-on mods away from being serious road burners.

Of course, looking back on it now, the cars don’t seem that impressive – but at the time, turbocharged Mopar products were a Godsend. The Daytona came in a few different varieties and got spicier each year. In the case of a 1986 model Daytona like this one, it features a turbocharged 2.2-liter engine, snazzy body kit, a close-ratio manual gearbox, and a variety of convenience-oriented features to make the cabin feel more expensive than it was. Of course, all those attributes aside, the real selling point for this Daytona is its clean condition, with a spotless interior and exterior showing very few flaws.

It’s also one of only a handful optioned with the T-top roof package, and it seems likely that the original owner wanted the best Daytona money could buy at the time. Of course, you could always push the envelope further if you stepped up to the C/S package, which unlocked thicker anti-roll bars, special shocks, and larger alloy wheels. Based on the wheels shown here, I don’t believe this is a C/S car, but you never know! The seller notes a few issues, the most significant of which are a fuel tank leak when the gas tank is full and inoperable A/C. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Barney for the find.