Dodge’s 1982 roster captures a moment when the brand balanced compact experiments, economical commuters, and sporty variants. Whether you’re researching for restoration, buying parts, or just curious about model differences, a compact, organized list makes comparisons simple and quick.
There are 11 1982 Dodge Models, ranging from the 400 to the Rampage. For each entry you’ll find below Body style, Engines (L), Notable trims to help you compare specs, spot identifying features, and pick the right car for your needs — you’ll find below.
How can I tell these 1982 Dodge models apart quickly?
Start with body style (coupe, sedan, pickup), then check engine displacement in liters and any trim badges; those three columns—Body style, Engines (L), Notable trims—usually give enough clues to narrow a match. Photos of grille, tail lights and dash layout also help when VIN or paperwork aren’t available.
Are parts likely interchangeable across these 1982 Dodge models?
Some parts—especially engines, transmissions and suspension pieces—may be interchangeable between platform-sharing models, but trim-specific items (interior panels, badges, optics) are often unique. Verify with VIN, service manuals or parts catalogs before assuming compatibility.
1982 Dodge Models
| Model | Body style | Engines (L) | Notable trims |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aries | sedan/coupe/wagon | 2.2L I4,2.6L I4 | Base,SE |
| 400 | coupe/sedan | 2.2L I4,2.6L I4 | SE,base |
| Omni | hatchback | 1.7L I4,2.2L I4 | Omni 024 variant |
| Charger | coupe | 1.7L I4,2.2L I4 | Sport,SE |
| Colt | hatchback/sedan | 1.6L I4,1.8L I4 | Base,ES |
| Rampage | coupe‑utility | 2.2L I4 | Base,Sport |
| Ram 50 | compact pickup | 1.6L I4,2.0L I4 | Base,Custom |
| D/W‑Series pickup | full‑size pickup | 3.7L I6,5.2L V8,5.9L V8 | Tradesman,Power Wagon |
| Ramcharger | SUV | 5.2L V8,5.9L V8 | Sport,Custom |
| Ram Van | full‑size van | 3.7L I6,5.2L V8 | Tradesman,Sportsman |
| Diplomat | sedan/coupe | 3.7L I6,5.2L V8 | Custom,SE |
Images and Descriptions
Aries
The Dodge Aries was Dodge’s K‑car compact sold across the U.S. in 1982 as sedan, coupe and wagon. Noted for economical 2.2L and optional 2.6L engines, it helped revive Chrysler’s fortunes; “Aries” invokes the ram, matching Dodge branding.
400
The Dodge 400 was an upscale K‑car derivative sold in the U.S. in 1982, positioned above the Aries. It offered slightly more upscale trim and aerodynamic styling with familiar 2.2L and 2.6L engines; the numeric name matched early‑1980s marketing trends.
Omni
The Dodge Omni was a front‑wheel‑drive compact hatchback sold in the U.S. in 1982, shared with the Plymouth Horizon. Known for practicality and economy, it used small 1.7–2.2L engines and spawned the sporty 2‑door Charger coupe variant.
Charger
The Dodge Charger of 1982 was an Omni‑based compact coupe sold in the U.S., reviving the Charger name on a small platform. It emphasized sporty styling and light performance with 1.7–2.2L four‑cylinder engines, aimed at buyers wanting flair and economy.
Colt
The Dodge Colt was a Mitsubishi‑based subcompact sold in the U.S. in 1982, valued for low cost and fuel efficiency. Offered in hatchback and sedan forms with 1.6–1.8L four‑cylinders, the Colt name signaled Dodge’s captive‑import small car.
Rampage
The Dodge Rampage was a compact coupe‑utility sold in the U.S. in 1982, built on the Omni platform. It offered carlike handling and a 2.2L four‑cylinder, aimed at buyers wanting pickup utility with small‑car economy and style.
Ram 50
The Dodge Ram 50 was a Mitsubishi‑built compact pickup sold in the U.S. in 1982, offering small four‑cylinder engines and lightweight cargo capability. It provided Dodge a fuel‑efficient import‑based truck alongside its full‑size lineup.
D/W‑Series pickup
The D/W‑Series were Dodge’s full‑size pickups sold in the U.S. in 1982, with 2WD (D) and 4WD (W) variants. Known for workability and V8 power, common engines included the slant‑six and 318/360 V8s for towing and heavy use.
Ramcharger
The Dodge Ramcharger was a full‑size two‑door SUV sold in the U.S. in 1982, built on the D/W pickup platform. V8 power and a roomy cargo area made it popular for off‑road and family use; the Ram name conveyed toughness.
Ram Van
The Dodge Ram Van (B‑series) was Dodge’s full‑size cargo and passenger van sold in the U.S. in 1982. Offered in Tradesman and Sportsman trims, it used six‑cylinder and V8 engines and was popular with commercial and conversion buyers.
Diplomat
The Dodge Diplomat was a mid‑size rear‑wheel‑drive car sold in the U.S. in 1982 on Chrysler’s M‑body. It catered to fleets and private buyers with slant‑six and V8 engines, known for conservative styling and durable, easy‑to‑maintain mechanicals.
