1 of 1,771 Ragtops: 1968 Plymouth Satellite

The Satellite became Plymouth’s top-tier mid-size car in 1965 when the B-bodies officially became designated as intermediates. It was a popular seller into the 1970s, though convertibles were never particularly hot (they only built 1,771 copies in 1968). This ’68 drop-top has ample corrosion and some awful stripes, but it does run and move. Located in Belvidere, Illinois (where Chrysler built cars through 2023), this open-air project is available here on Facebook Marketplace for $5,000. A nod goes to Zappenduster for this Mopar tip.

Chrysler’s B-bodies were redesigned in 1968, and the next three years would produce a great sales run. The hot cars included the Plymouth Road Runner and Dodge Charger. 136,136 Satellites were assembled in ’68, but only 2% were ragtops (including the Sport Satellite model). So, the seller’s car is rare when you consider the likely survival rate over the past 58 years. It’s a rather routine “B” with a 318 cubic inch V8 and a TorqueFlite automatic transmission.

We assume this Plymouth hasn’t been doing much running around of late. Though the seller says it does run and move. The car has 80,000 miles, but there’s no indication that the number is accurate but is believable. Besides rust, which is at least visible in the rear quarter panels, the seller says the vehicle needs frame rails, a trunk floor, and interior floor pans under the seats. Also, there is at least one decent-sized dent.

Once the body damage is repaired, new paint will be needed, and that will be a good opportunity to cover over the awkward body stripes someone added. The interior is a question mark as there is a blanket over the front seat, though the upholstery looks passable in the back. The photos suggest the convertible top is beyond its prime, too. Would you elect to restore this Satellite to 1968 specs or use it as a parts car?