A 1969 Dodge HEMI Charger Daytona, a vehicle that once reigned supreme as the most valuable Daytona ever sold, has spectacularly reclaimed its crown.
This dark green masterpiece commanded an astonishing $3.3 million at Mecum’s Monterey 2024 auction, a figure that not only eclipses the previous record by a substantial margin but also establishes unprecedented benchmarks for the Daytona model, becoming the first to surpass both the $2 million and $3 million milestones.
The car’s allure is undeniable; it stands as a testament to meticulous preservation, boasting an extraordinary level of originality in its components and sheet metal that raises it to museum-quality collectibles. However, it is the car’s extraordinary rarity that truly ignited a bidding frenzy among collectors.
Within the limited production run of 503 Charger Daytonas created in 1969 to meet NASCAR homologation requirements, only 70 were endowed with the formidable 426-cubic-inch HEMI V8 engine. Among this exclusive group, a mere 22 were paired with the highly sought-after four-speed manual transmission.
This particular Daytona is one of these exceptional examples, further distinguished by its matching numbers on both engine and transmission. This extraordinary combination of factors created an irresistible force that propelled the bidding to unprecedented heights, culminating in a record-breaking sale that firmly established this Daytona as an unparalleled automotive treasure.
A singular masterpiece of automotive engineering and design, this 1969 Dodge HEMI Daytona stands as an unparalleled testament to Mopar’s prowess. Its extraordinary combination of drivetrain specifications and exterior color renders it a truly unique collector’s item. While the F8 Dark Green hue graces a handful of other Daytonas, the exclusive C6G green vinyl interior raises this particular example to its own.
This winged warrior is not merely rare but exceptional in its opulence. As the most highly optioned HEMI Daytona known to exist, it is a showcase of available luxuries and performance enhancements for the era.
From the formidable 4.10 Super Track Pak that unleashes raw power to the refined comfort of the six-way adjustable driver’s seat, every detail exudes an uncompromising commitment to excellence.
Its auction success underscores its status as a pinnacle achievement in automotive history. Surpassing even the iconic Plymouth HEMI Superbird, this Daytona claimed the title of the most expensive “winged warrior” ever sold, a record-breaking feat that solidified its legendary status among collectors and enthusiasts alike.
