The 1968 Dodge Charger is an iconic muscle car that has captivated automotive enthusiasts for decades. With its powerful performance, striking design, and rich history, this vehicle has become a symbol of American automotive excellence. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating history, notable features, specifications, performance, and legacy of the 1968 Dodge Charger.
History
The 1968 Dodge Charger was introduced as the second generation of the Charger lineup. It featured a sleek and aggressive design with hidden headlights, a fastback roofline, and a distinctive full-width grille. This model year marked a departure from the previous Charger’s boxy styling, embracing a more aerodynamic and modern appearance.
Features and Specifications
Engine
Under the hood, the 1968 Dodge Charger packed a punch with its engine options. While this particular vehicle started its life with a 318 engine, it underwent a transformation with the installation of a 440 CI engine sourced from a 1970 New Yorker. This upgrade significantly enhanced the Charger’s power and performance, delivering an exhilarating driving experience.
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Transmission
Powering the Charger is a SMR Racing 727 transmission, which offers smooth and precise gear shifts. This automatic transmission complements the car’s high-performance capabilities, ensuring optimal power transfer to the rear wheels.
Exterior
The exterior of this 1968 Dodge Charger showcases a timeless combination of yellow paint and a black vinyl top. The restoration process involved the installation of various AMD components, including rear valence, corners, trunk floor, trunk extensions, outer wheel housings, and quarter panel skins.
The front and rear bumpers have been re-chromed, restoring their original luster. The inclusion of restoration quality steel rims from Wheel Vintiques adds an authentic touch to the overall appearance of the Charger.
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Interior
The interior of the 1968 Dodge Charger retains its original vinyl seats, providing a nostalgic ambiance. The car features manual brakes, steering, and windows, reflecting the simplicity of design and performance-focused nature of classic muscle cars. The dash, seats, and other interior components have been preserved, showcasing the original charm of the Charger’s cabin.
Performance
Equipped with a 440 CI engine, the 1968 Dodge Charger delivers impressive performance on the road. The increased displacement and power output allow for exhilarating acceleration and thrilling driving experiences.
The Hemi leaf springs and upgraded suspension components ensure excellent handling and stability, making the Charger a true performer on both straightaways and winding roads.
Legacy
The 1968 Dodge Charger holds a significant place in the American automotive landscape. It has been immortalized in popular culture, most notably as the iconic “General Lee” in the television series “The Dukes of Hazzard.” The Charger’s bold design, powerful performance, and cultural impact have cemented its status as a classic muscle car that continues to inspire and captivate enthusiasts worldwide.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 1968 Dodge Charger exemplifies the essence of American muscle cars with its striking design, powerful engine, and exhilarating performance. This timeless classic continues to turn heads and evoke a sense of nostalgia for automotive enthusiasts. Whether it’s the aggressive exterior styling, the rumble of the V8 engine, or the thrill of the open road, the 1968 Dodge Charger remains an enduring symbol of automotive excellence.
FAQs
Is the VIN number matching on this 1968 Dodge Charger?
No, the VIN number indicates that the engine is not numbers matching. However, it has been upgraded with a more powerful 440 CI engine.
What is the transmission type in this Charger?
The 1968 Dodge Charger is equipped with a SMR Racing 727 automatic transmission, providing smooth and precise gear shifts.
Are the brakes, steering, and windows manual or power-assisted?
This Charger features manual brakes, manual steering, and manual windows, emphasizing its performance-focused nature and simplicity of design.
What are the tire sizes on the Charger?
The tire sizes on this Dodge Charger are 225/70/15 in the front and 275/60/15 in the rear, offering a balanced combination of grip and performance.
Has the original interior of the Charger been preserved?
Yes, the original vinyl seats and various interior components have been retained during the restoration process, maintaining the authentic charm of the 1968 Dodge Charger’s cabin.
I’m Timothy Ballard, owner of a used car dealership in Springfield. I love just about everything automotive, but I have a special place in my heart for trucks. I’m an ASE Certified Master Technician, so I know my way around a car. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling with my family and hiking new trails.