Need advice (or opinions) on Buying a Scamp

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RichieDart

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I have to choose between buying either a '72 or '74 Scamp. Both are /6 AT non AC cars. Both are believed to be low mileage (less than 50K). Neither one is cheap IMO. But I've been saving my coin.. Both are garaged since new. I plan to drive it during the warmer months. Definitely not during salt season here in NY. Which year had better build quality or a better reputation for durability? What do you say?
 
I'd go with the 72. the older the better IMO. Plus doesnt 74 have the big log bumpers or am I thinking Chevy Nova ? :)
 
Both are comparable as far as build quality goes, so what it comes down to is personal preference in the styling, and options.
'72 is a flat nose with the smaller bumpers, '74 is a "beaker" with the larger "impact" style bumpers.
'72 will most likely have small bolt pattern 9" drum brakes all around (if stock), possibly optioned to 10" rear drums and KH front discs. Some service parts are becoming difficult to source for the KHs.
'74 will most likely be big bolt pattern, possibly single-piston front disc brakes- much easier to find parts for. Plus the large bolt pattern will give you more options if you decide to change out to aftermarket wheels in the future.
'74 has the dreaded seatbelt interlock system; if it has not already been bypassed, you will want to address that after purchase.
Is one or both a bench seat car, or buckets? Does one have a preferred color for you? Closely check frame conditions, and simple things like exhaust and tire condition. Has one or the other had too many "hands" on it over the years? Fewer "previous owner" fixes/modifications, the better.
Assuming similar body/interior/drivetrain condition, it's just going to be a preference call on your part.
'72 will currently have a better resale value, if that concerns you. Who knows what the future will hold.
 
Quality? Nothing got better in Detroit the deeper into the seventies you go. IMO. Body panel fitment and number of spot welds is one example. Between the two I would buy the 72. And that's coming from a guy with a 74. But mine has a 72 tail panel and a 73 front bumper. Large bolt pattern and disc brakes would be a plus for the 74.
 
I disagree about the 74 being a "beaker". It's not. The 74 Darts are. The Valiant based cars stayed pretty flat across the front. I say look at them both. The 74 has a higher possibility of less rust and higher options, like big bolt pattern wheels, disc brakes and maybe an 8 1/4 rear end. Probably more accessories like power steering, power brakes and A/C. Things like bumpers can be changed if you so desire. The 74 may be more car bang for the buck.
 
Here's a 74 Scamp.
74 Scamp.jpeg

Here's a 74 Dart. It has the beak, not the Scamp.
74 DART.jpg
 
There is more aftermarket support for the pre-73 cars. You will find out when you start looking for interior parts and any other unique 73+ parts.
I do like the solid door windows on the 73+ cars and yes plymouth front ends were much better than the dodge beak.
 
I guess I'm weird. I like the Valiant based cars all the way to 76.
 
1974. Better K Frame, more comfortable seat belts, although I wonder if the one you are looking at has disc brakes or large bolt pattern since it's both a /6 and Non A/C.
Is the 1972 a 225 or 198?
 
I think the flatter hoods are a better platform for hood scoops. Is that a dumb reason to buy a car? LOL
1971-plymouth-scamp-big-block.jpeg
1-21-630x390.jpg
 
If it's a slant, and has the smaller drum brakes it will NOT be a 4.5 wheel bolt pattern, whether 72 or 74. The seat belt thing is easy to unhook. Did the 72 have the energy absorb bumpers? That crap is HEAVY. You might double check your state emissions laws, is the 74 subject to testing there?
 
I have found over the years of working on 74 a bodies are a wiring disaster. Bulk head corrosion problems and every other plug seams to corrode. on 74 and newer.

73 on back are prefered mopars
 
I love my 1975 dodge dart sport 360! Beak and all!! My 1st car ever. Still own it. Started off as a Slant 6.
 
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