The Bring a Trailer auction platform is hosting the sale of a 1968 Dodge Dart, powered by a 426 Hemi V-8.
It offers the chance to own the compact A-body Dodge, fitted with a legendary engine.
The listing is part of a new collaboration with the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association. This aims to highlight cars being sold by members of the nationwide enthusiast club.
“This is a tribute!”
The combination of a small body, and an engine bay big enough for V-8s, had made the Dart attractive to drag racers.
For 1968, Dodge decided to get in on the action itself. Hurst Performance was contracted to build Super Stock Darts for competition usage. Darts with both the 440-cubic inch RB V-8, and formidable 426-cubic inch Hemi V-8, would be available.
Around 80 original Dodge Hemi Dart Super Stock models are believed to have been produced. It means tracking down a factory ‘LO23’ Hemi Dart is akin to finding a needle in a haystack.
With original cars so rare, opting to build a tribute like the car up for auction is a smart move.
“Hemi-powered drones scream down the boulevard”
Subject to a five-year restoration process, the main attraction for the 1968 Dart is the 426-cubic inch Hemi beneath the fiberglass hood.
The big V-8 has been fitted with aluminum cylinder heads, Holley carburettors, MSD ignition, and Johnson Lifters hydraulic roller tappets.
Although the Dart has been photographed with velocity stacks, air cleaners are used for street driving. The Hemi V-8 is also said to be capable of running on regular pump gasoline.
A TCI 727 three-speed automatic transmission sends power to the outrageous 10-inch wide rear wheels.
Stripped back to basics
As part of the restoration work, the Hemi Dart has gained Corbeau bucket seats, finished in black leather. These are equipped with G-Force Racing Gear four-point harnesses, with a sizable roll hoop mounted behind.
The radio, heater, and rear bench seat have all been removed to save weight, while the side windows are made from polycarbonate. The window winder mechanism has also been ditched, and replaced with straps.
Extensive paperwork will be supplied with the Hemi Dart, including service records and details of the components used in the restoration.
Ready to rumble
With so few examples produced, prices for a genuine LO23 Hemi Dart typical stretch deep into six figures. Owning such a rarity is also likely to dissuade owners from hitting the drag strip in their Mopar muscle car.
Bidding on a tribute car like the Dart up for auction enables the same Hemi-powered thrills. Just without the related worry or expense.
The auction for the Hemi Dart Super Stock tribute is set to run on Bring a Trailer until Thursday, November 18.
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