File:1961 Dodge Dart Phoenix 2 door Hardtop (31738653608).jpg

In 1928, Chrysler acquired Fargo Trucks and Dodge Brothers and also established Plymouth and DeSoto brands. Plymouth was Chryslers lowest priced car, Dodge was next, then Desoto and Chrysler was top of the line. For 1961, Dodge dropped the Matador, leaving the Polara as the sole 'senior' 122 in wheelbase Dodge model For the 1961 model year, the Dart continued as the smaller full-size Dodge. It retained the 118 in wheelbase, and was restyled to emulate the larger Polara. The styling was a little unpopular with its reverse fins, rear fender scalloping and concave grille. The badly designed wraparound taillights projected light sideward, not rearward, auxiliary round lights were added later in the year. The slightly shorter wheelbase Dodge Dart was available in three models; The base Dart Seneca (2 and 4 door Sedan and Wagon) Mid Dart Pioneer (2 door Hardtop, 2 and 4 door Sedan and Wagon) And top of the range Dart Phoenix (2 door Convertible, 2 and 4 door Hardtop and 4 door Sedan) Also for 1961, Dodge introduced the Lancer, a badge-engineered clone of Chrysler's very popular Valiant compact