The Dodge Aries, traced along the road in a small village in Friesland, brought your traveling editorial back to the early eighties. Such a Dodge - part of the Chrysler brand that is now owned by Fiat - is seen as an ultimate attempt to gain a foothold in the segment of the compact cars. The vehicle described as 'small' for the American market, still almost 'full size' in Europe, was powered in the standard version by an 2,2 liter four-cylinder engine, as optional extra an 2,6 liter power source could also be chosen. Available as an 2 door coupe, as an 4 door sedan and as a station wagon. After some start-up problems with the already distressed Chrysler, sales started well. When the curtain fell in 1989, the counter also stopped at 972.216 copies. The model was also sold under the Chrysler LeBaron and Plymouth Reliant names. The Dodge found in Friesland is not a recent American import, but an original from a new item delivered to our country and isn't that something to make you happy? Despite the high age - year of construction 1982 - the only 1.246 kilogram heavy station car still looked great and, according to the seller, also drove like an 'as new' car. And all for only 500 euros ... The temptation was great ?!
Photo: Pretty unique, an original Dutch Dodge Aries
In a hamlet here on the Bevelanden I also see special Americans standing outside a farmer, especially on Sundays. I should talk to that man someday.