Photo: red_dirt_mopars/instagram
When talking about the 1968 Dodge Charger R/T, it's hard not to think of this chasing Steve McQueen's 390 Mustang in the Bullitt motion picture. However, while the Mopar machine that starred in the iconic movie was the still-muscular 440, the one that now sits before us is the HEMI holy grail.
While the stock 440ci (7.2-liter) four-barrel delivered 374 ponies, the optional 426ci (7-liter) HEMI brought a massive 425 hp, with this being an underrated number.
Then again, the more potent motor commanded a $605 premium over the $3,506 price of the R/T. As such, under 500 of the 17,000 Charger R/Ts the automotive producer sold that year came with the HEMI (the numbers are approximations).
Both engines could be linked to either an automatic or a four-speed manual and the example sitting before us once again shines, since it's the one with the three pedals.
However, it seems that this piece of Mopar history we have here has had its fair share of rough moments. According to Red Dirt Mopars, the social media label that brought this toy to our attention, the machine was recently pulled out of a shed and it seems it used to spend its days underneath some lawn mowers.
“What’s the current situation of the vehicle?” I hear you asking. At least judging by what we can see in these pictures, the engine compartment is empty, while we can see multiple parts resting in the trunk.
Then again, the vehicle is in the process of receiving the TLC it deserves, so here's to hoping it returns to the road as soon as possible.
In case you're willing to adorn your garage with such a piece of American history, the Dodge Charger doesn't appear to be listed for sale. Then again, since the dots are already here to connect, any potential buyers might as well give it a try.
Then again, the more potent motor commanded a $605 premium over the $3,506 price of the R/T. As such, under 500 of the 17,000 Charger R/Ts the automotive producer sold that year came with the HEMI (the numbers are approximations).
Both engines could be linked to either an automatic or a four-speed manual and the example sitting before us once again shines, since it's the one with the three pedals.
However, it seems that this piece of Mopar history we have here has had its fair share of rough moments. According to Red Dirt Mopars, the social media label that brought this toy to our attention, the machine was recently pulled out of a shed and it seems it used to spend its days underneath some lawn mowers.
“What’s the current situation of the vehicle?” I hear you asking. At least judging by what we can see in these pictures, the engine compartment is empty, while we can see multiple parts resting in the trunk.
Then again, the vehicle is in the process of receiving the TLC it deserves, so here's to hoping it returns to the road as soon as possible.
In case you're willing to adorn your garage with such a piece of American history, the Dodge Charger doesn't appear to be listed for sale. Then again, since the dots are already here to connect, any potential buyers might as well give it a try.
Google News