Image of 1982 Plymouth Colt, sourced from www.wheel-size.com , Image Link.

Rediscovering the 1982 Plymouth Colt: A Compact Icon

The 1982 Plymouth Colt may not have been the flashiest car on the block, but it certainly carved out a niche for itself in automotive history. Born from a partnership between Chrysler and Mitsubishi, the Colt was a product of global collaboration, designed to offer an economical and reliable option for car buyers during a period of economic uncertainty. With its roots tracing back to Japan, where it was known as the Mitsubishi Mirage, the Colt was rebadged for American consumers who were increasingly looking for fuel-efficient alternatives amidst rising gas prices.

This unassuming compact car gained a reputation for being a practical choice for budget-conscious drivers. It's worth noting that the Colt played a part in introducing America to the concept of smaller, imported vehicles that could stand up to domestic offerings. One unique fact about this vehicle is that it was among the first wave of Japanese-engineered cars to gain acceptance in the U.S. market, paving the way for future imports.

Design and Innovation: The Essence of Simplicity

The exterior styling of the 1982 Plymouth Colt was modest yet functional, with clean lines and an unpretentious silhouette that embodied the practicality of early '80s automotive design. Inside, passengers were greeted with a straightforward and user-friendly dashboard layout, with materials that prioritized durability over luxury. The technological features were basic by today's standards but included essentials like an AM/FM radio and heating system, which were considered adequate for the era.

Color options ranged from understated hues to brighter tones, with choices like "Monaco Red" and "Bright Blue Metallic" catching the eye of more adventurous consumers. The most popular body style was undoubtedly the hatchback, which offered versatility and appealed to those needing extra cargo space without upgrading to a larger vehicle.

Historical Significance: A Compact Pioneer

The 1982 Plymouth Colt's impact on automotive design may not have been revolutionary, but its role in popularizing compact cars in America cannot be overstated. It stood out from its contemporaries by offering reliability at an affordable price point, something that resonated with consumers during economically challenging times. Its lasting influence is evident in how automakers continued to refine and embrace compact car designs in subsequent decades.

Performance and Handling: Nimble and Efficient

Performance-wise, the 1982 Plymouth Colt was no powerhouse, but it provided sufficient pep for city driving with respectable fuel economy. While top speed and acceleration figures were modest—with 0-60 mph times not typically a selling point—the Colt's lightweight frame allowed it to handle nimbly on urban roads and tight corners. Drivers often praised the car's ease of maneuverability and straightforward driving dynamics.

The driving experience was characterized by simplicity; there were no roaring engines or aggressive exhaust notes here—just the hum of a small-displacement engine doing its job efficiently. The ride quality was generally comfortable for a compact car of its time, though larger bumps could remind passengers of its economy-car status.

Ownership Experience: Practicality Above All Else

Most owners used their Colts as daily drivers due to their excellent fuel economy and low cost of ownership. Maintenance was relatively easy thanks to the car's simple mechanics and widespread availability of parts due to its shared DNA with Mitsubishi models. However, as with many vehicles from this era, rust could be an issue if not properly managed.

Fun Facts: The Colt's Place in History

While not known for breaking records or celebrity endorsements, the Plymouth Colt did have its moments in popular culture, appearing as background fodder in films and television shows set during the '80s. Common criticisms at the time focused on its lackluster performance compared to more powerful cars; however, this was often overlooked by those who valued efficiency over speed.

Collector's Information: A Niche Classic?

Today, finding a 1982 Plymouth Colt can be akin to discovering hidden treasure. Production numbers weren't meticulously recorded back then, but estimates suggest that tens of thousands were made. As for value range, well-preserved examples can fetch anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 depending on condition and originality—though prices can fluctuate based on collector interest.

Conclusion: A Testament to Practicality

The 1982 Plymouth Colt stands as a testament to an era when practicality began gaining ground over power and prestige in America's automotive preferences. While it may not have been adorned with luxury or high performance credentials, its significance lies in its role as a harbinger of change—a shift towards global collaboration and efficiency that would shape the industry for years to come.

1982 Plymouth Colt Windshield and Rear Windshield Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 216Windshield and Rear Windshield Molding Clip. Made of steel. 1-1/8" X 5/8". Each