Smaller than its 111-inch-wheelbase Dart "big brother," Demon is a semi-fastback coupe built on a 108-inch wheelbase and will be available in two series -- a standard two-door and a performance-oriented version, the Demon 340.
"Demon will be a price leader -- a value package with particular appeal for younger families, college students, and women who work," said Roberto B. McCurry, Dodge general manager.
"The Demon is one of the most pleasing automobiles we have ever brought to market," McCurry pointed out. "The overall appearance is contemporary, which allows the car to fit in almost any given situation.
"Handling, performance, and economy characteristics make Demon at home either on the road or around town. Its compact size simplifies parking, yet offers plenty of room for passengers and luggage."
Distinctive high rear fenders complement the rounded door panels.
Demon and 1971 Dart will share front end sheet metal and grille pieces, but will feature separate interior and dash appointments. The rear side windows on the Demon will be the pivot type. Taillight and backup light structures are concealed in vertical slots, which blend with the moulded appearance of the trunk lid.
The standard six cylinder engine in Demon will be a 198 cubic-inch Slant Six. A 225 cubic-inch Slant Six will be optional. Standard V-8 will be the 318 cubic-inch engine. In the Demon 340, a 340 cubic-inch V-8 is standard.
Molded plastisol-applied head restraints will be standard. Vinyl bucket seats with integral head restraints and center console are optional.
Eighteen exterior colors will be offered including five bright sporty colors -- Butterscotch, Citron Yella, Hemi Orange, Green-go, and Plum Crazy. Vinyl tops will come in Gold, Green, Black or White.
On the Demon 340, a rallye instrument cluster is standard. Other standard items include a heavy-duty, rallye-type suspension, E70 x 14" tires and 3-speed floor-mounted, fully-synchronized manual transmission.
A new part-throttle kickdown feature will be standard with all automatic transmissions. The low speed kickdown enables the driver to gain extra passing or acceleration power with a slight depression of the accelerator.
A "keyless" door locking system is standard and enables the driver or passengers to lock the car without an ignition key.
Heading a long list of trim and convenience options for Demon will be a Cassette stereo tape player and recorder. The new player-record system, an industry first, is offered as a floor mounted option and provides a means to play Cassette tapes or record music from the car radio or the voice of the driver or passengers.
A gasoline evaporation control system will be installed as standard equipment. This system prevents loss of fuel vapors from the carburetor and fuel tank to the atmosphere. These vapors are vented through lines to the crankcase by way of the crankcase air cleaner.
Dodge cars sold in California have a new emissions control feature. The reduction of nitrous oxides is accomplished by reducing vacuum spark advance on acceleration up to 30 mph.
He added:
"With the influence of the young people entering the automobile market place, this segment of the market should remain strong."