2001 Dodge Stratus R/T

I actually looked specifically for a 2 door coupe, because (1) the body shape, and (2) it’s actually a Mitsubishi built car with Dodge emblems. THIS is the car that Dodge should have put a new Hemi engine in and called it the “Charger”.

• Sporty looks – CHECK!
• 2 door – CHECK!
• No window frames – CHECK!
• Stick shift – CHECK!

I bought it off Craigslist for $500 and it needed a clutch, tires, and the registration back fees paid.

Thank you Mitsubishi for over-complicating a simple clutch replacement.

The car has been a reliable daily driver for a few years now, but there were a few parts that needed attention. The headlights were terribly yellowed and there wasn’t any chance at saving them with sanding or buffing. And that’s when I stumbled upon a perfect parts car. It had good headlights, taillights, the console and left door panel were better than mine, and the seats were leather (though the fronts were cracked up). I had a professional upholstery guy re-do the front seats with material that was the closest match to the original. The rear seat was in gorgeous condition, so it went in my car as-is.

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