This 1966 Plymouth Satellite Used to Be a Dragster, Been Chilling Its HEMI V8 for 33 Years

A slight redesign was carried out in 1966, with the Satellite getting the so-called “Street Hemi” engine with its 4-barrel carburetors and 10.25:1 compression. This 426 ci HEMI V8 power unit was rated at 425 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque, instantly transforming the Satellite into one of the most powerful muscle cars of its generation, plain and simple.

There were, of course, other engine options available, with anywhere from 180 hp to 330 hp, but none compared to the Hemi.

It comes as no surprise to learn that this particular 1966 Plymouth Satellite, which is currently getting auctioned off to the highest bidder, was drag raced by its original owner in Michigan back in the mid-to-late 1960s, before getting shipped off to northern California.

Long story short, it’s been in the hands of the current seller for 33 years, having already undergone a multi-year refurbishment process consisting of a replacement driver-side fender, new coat of factory white paint, and re-plated chrome trim.

Other visual features include the fender-mounted turn signal indicators, 426 fender badges, side-view mirrors, a hood ornament, and a set of 14” steel wheels with Hankook Optimo H725 radials.

The suspension was also overhauled (these Hemi-powered models came with heavy-duty front torsion bars and high-rate rear leaf springs), although we’re not too thrilled about the front and rear drum brake setup.

Moving on to the interior, we see black vinyl front bucket seats, a similarly-upholstered rear bench, color-matching dashboard and headliner, custom three-piece fiberglass center console, a Plymouth Transaudio AM radio, locking glovebox, lap belts, and a two-spoke steering wheel with a chrome horn ring.

As for any mods to the Hemi V8, just an MSD electronic ignition system with replacement wiring harness, an aftermarket exhaust system with TTi headers, and a replacement radiator core. Meanwhile, the gearbox is a replacement four-speed manual, fitted with new synchros and working alongside a Sure-Grip differential.

Caught in orbit

Coincidentally, we’ve seen quite a few noteworthy first-generation Plymouth Satellite models online recently, such as this 1969 survivor with a 318 ci unit. Not bad, right?

Well, we can do even better – check out this 1967 model with the 383 ci big-block V8, although we don’t know if it’s got the two- or the four-barrel carburetor, which matters because one helped generate 270 horsepower, whereas the other 335 horsepower.

Regardless, neither of those two can hold a candle to this 426 Hemi-powered one. It’s literally the most desirable first-gen Satellite spec imaginable.