Dodge Spice Poly (016 (1976)) Touch Up Paint

The Look

Your 1976 Dodge Colt is a survivor of a very specific era in automotive design. This earthy, tan-adjacent metallic shade reflects the mid-seventies shift toward natural, muted tones that felt more grounded than the high-impact colors of the previous decade. Because the Colt was a nimble import under the Dodge banner, this color was meant to add a layer of sophistication to a compact frame. After nearly fifty years on the road, the original finish has likely developed a unique character, so your touch-up work is about preserving that vintage curb appeal.

Technical Details

This is a metallic finish, which means the paint is packed with tiny flakes that provide its signature shimmer. These particles are heavy and have a habit of sinking or clustering if the application is too heavy. If you aren't careful, the metal bits can create dark, blotchy areas that look like shadows. To avoid this, you should apply the paint in light, even passes. This allows the flakes to lay flat across the surface rather than bunching up in a puddle. Patience with your drying time between layers is the only way to ensure the metallic effect looks consistent and deep.

Best Practices

Finding your identification plate is the first step, and on these older models, you should look at the driver side door jamb or the radiator support under the hood. Before you spray or dab Dodge Spice Poly (check for code 016 (1976)), you need to shake it for 60 seconds. You must hear the mixing ball doing its job to get those metallic flakes into the mix. Test the color on the included card to see how the flakes settle before you move to the car. To prevent stripes or uneven spots, keep the container moving at a steady pace. Working in a garage or a patch of shade will give the paint the stable environment it needs to set without drying too fast.