A powerhouse engine roared onto the scene in 1966 the Chrysler 426 Hemi. Plymouth took advantage of this beast, offering it in the high-performance Belvedere GTX. The GTX became a standalone model in 1968 but retained its refined muscle car character.
In 1967, the GTX arrived with a prestigious reputation, boasting eight-cylinder power as standard. It wasn’t all hype; the GTX demanded a minimum engine size. Only two engine options were available, with the larger one coming standard a similar tactic used by Dodge’s Road/Track package.
This top-tier engine was a whopping 440-cubic inch Super Commando with a four-barrel carburetor, offering plenty of Mopar muscle. But for those who craved even more, an option existed.
Listed under “Engine” on the order form, a single line offered a 426 CID Hemi with dual exhaust for a hefty $564. This upgrade wasn’t for the faint of wallet, costing over 20% more than the base price. Consequently, only a select 737 opted for this monstrous 425-horsepower engine.
This red-and-black beauty found its way into the hands of Ray Dupuis, a Canadian car restoration specialist with a lifelong passion for Mopars. After four years of meticulous work, Ray brought the GTX back to its former glory, staying true to its original design except for a single, period-correct addition of a dashboard clock.
While the odometer reading is uncertain due to the car’s past, it remains a prized possession for Ray and his partner Lisette.
Lisette has become the GTX’s regular driver, turning heads at car shows and enthusiast gatherings. The car’s unique status even caught the eye of Johnny Lightning, a diecast model company, who immortalized the GTX in miniature form.
