While many classic cars succumb to the ravages of time and neglect, the 1968 Dodge Charger R/T found in a storage unit defies the odds. After a four-decade slumber, this Mopar still displays its original red paint on select body panels, though a replacement front fender and primer-finished sections indicate an unfinished restoration project.
This is a common occurrence as life often intervenes in ambitious restoration plans. Despite its incomplete state, the Charger’s condition is remarkably sound. The body panels are straight, and rust is minimal.
The accompanying boxes contain most of the original parts, although the hood is missing. The interior is a mixed bag. While complete, the greenish-blue upholstery is not original, replacing the car’s original white interior.
This Charger presents a unique opportunity for a classic car enthusiast. With its solid foundation and original paint, it offers a blank canvas for restoration. The missing hood can be easily sourced, and the interior can be restored to its original white color or customized to the owner’s preference. Given the Charger’s rarity and desirability, it is likely to appreciate once restored.
Furthermore, the Charger R/T is a highly sought-after classic car, known for its powerful Hemi engine and iconic styling. Restoring this particular example would be a rewarding project for any enthusiast, resulting in a stunning and valuable vehicle. The car’s history and provenance would also add to its appeal, making it a desirable investment for collectors.
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T, a rare and sought-after muscle car, boasts a powerful 440-cubic-inch V8 engine that needs some attention to run again. This big-block V8, topped with a four-barrel carburetor, was the standard engine in the R/T model, delivering 375 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque.
While the optional 426 HEMI was even more powerful, the 440 is still a formidable engine. The R/T version, with its higher performance and rarer status, is a prized collectible, with fewer than 18,000 units produced compared to the 93,000 standard Chargers sold in 1968. The 440-cubic-inch engine was a significant upgrade from the smaller 383-cubic-inch V8 that powered the base Charger.
It offered a substantial increase in power and torque, making the R/T a formidable performer on the street and the track. The combination of the powerful engine, sturdy chassis, and distinctive styling made the 1968 Charger R/T a popular choice among muscle car enthusiasts.
While the 426 HEMI was the ultimate performance option for the Charger, the 440 was still a very capable engine. It offered a balance of power and drivability that made it suitable for a wide range of driving conditions. The 440 was also a more affordable option than the HEMI, making it a more accessible choice for many buyers.
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T is a classic muscle car that continues to be admired and sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Its powerful engine, distinctive styling, and rare status make it a valuable and desirable vehicle.
