Classic Station Wagons often force owners to compromise between practicality and performance. However, this 1966 Chrysler Town and Country is an uncompromising Muscle Wagon. Its original 440ci V8 provides plenty of power for the driver, while the third-row seating adds significantly to its versatility. This Wagon appears to need nothing and is ideal for someone with a growing family. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder numskal for spotting this beauty.

The Town and Country badge joined Chrysler’s range in 1941, and apart from the enforced production suspension prompted by World War II, it remained a constant until 2016. The 1965 model year saw the company produce an updated version featuring significant restyling and engineering upgrades. This Generation remained in showrooms until 1968, before the next model hit the market. Our feature Wagon rolled off the line in 1966 and appears to be a dry-climate survivor. Its Silver Mist paint is consistent across the exterior, and although the photo quality of the two exterior shots isn’t great, they seem to indicate that it retains a healthy shine. Only an in-person inspection will reveal any possible patchiness, an issue that sometimes plagues this shade. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and the Wagon’s lack of rust is unsurprising. The factory chrome roof rack is a practical addition, and the remaining trim is spotless. There are no apparent glass issues, but I believe the Rally wheels might be a later addition.

Chrysler offered the 383ci V8 as the standard engine in the 1966 Town and Country, while the three-speed TorqueFlite transmission and power assistance for the steering and brakes were standard equipment. The 383 delivered 270hp and 390 ft/lbs of torque, which most owners found acceptable. However, this Wagon’s first owner wanted considerably more under their right foot, ticking the box to swap the 383 for the 440ci “TNT” powerplant. Power and torque rose to 365hp and 480 ft/lbs, allowing the Town and Country to cover the ¼-mile in 15.7 seconds. That might not compare favorably with hard-edged muscle cars like the Pontiac GTO, but it is an impressive figure for a nine-seat Wagon weighing 4,685 lbs. The seller states that this classic has been appropriately maintained, creating a wealth of pleasant memories as they have traveled up and down the California coast. They feel it is time for it to do the same for a new owner, claiming they wouldn’t hesitate to drive it anywhere. Therefore, flying in for a Californian vacation and driving home in this Chrysler is a realistic goal.

Family Station Wagons often suffer from interior damage, which is an occupational hazard of the lives they lead. That isn’t a concern with this Chrysler, because its interior is well above average for a vehicle of this type. The two-tone Blue vinyl trim shows no wear or damage, and the carpet is spotless. The Californian sun hasn’t ravaged the dash or pad, and the faux woodgrain is excellent. Presentation is one string to this classic’s bow, and another is its luxury appointments. The buyer receives air conditioning, power windows (including the rear glass), front bucket seats, and a third-row seat, which makes this what the company claimed was a genuine nine-seater. I’m unsure about squeezing three children into the rear row, but it would be comfortable for two.

Life generally forces us to compromise, from the type and location of our house to the food we place on our tables. Enthusiasts with large families face similar decisions as practicality over-rules performance. However, this 1966 Chrysler Town and Country provides enough power and performance to satisfy even the most hardened enthusiast, and I believe it will find a new home fairly quickly. The seller has listed this Wagon here on Craiglist in Vacaville, California, with an asking price of $15,000. That figure looks competitive compared to recent sales results, but is that thought enough for you to pursue this beauty further?