Dodge’s first compact car was called the Lancer (1961-62). For whatever reason, when the vehicle was redesigned in 1963 the Dart name was shifted to the A-body platform shared with the Plymouth Valiant. Another rework came in 1967 and would carry the compact through to its end in 1976. This 1969 edition is a rather ordinary model – four doors with a 318 cubic inch V8. Said to run well, but it does need some cosmetic attention. Located in Springfield, Ohio, this Dodge is available here on Facebook Marketplace for $5,600. Our thanks to Barn Finder “Ted” for this tip!
Though the cars were largely the same (different front clips), the Valiant tended to outsell the Dart. And by a wide margin in 1969 at 107,000 vs. 33,000 assemblies. Though we don’t know the breakdown by engine, the Slant Six was probably the biggest seller. So, the 318 in the seller’s car provides a little more zoom in a fairly light automobile, to begin with (if you wanted speed, there was always the 340). And this was before the Plymouth Duster and Dodge Demon arrived and brought sporty looks to the A-bodies.
This Dodge looks to have been well-used as the 4-doors typically were. We’re told the mileage is 4,700 but it’s likely the odometer is on its second go-around. The seller says the 318 and TorqueFlite automatic work as they should, and the Dart has new tires and a master cylinder for the brakes (no under-the-hood photos are provided). The wheels are aftermarket.
Does the car have any rust? We don’t know and the seller doesn’t say. Also, the photos don’t help much, and we only get to see portions of the car. It has a black vinyl top and matching interior, though the worn front seat bottom may have been changed in days past. If you’re looking for a vintage driver at a reasonable price, could this be the one?
I’ve got a big block k-member a 440 transplant would be sweet if the owner could be more forthright about any possible rot issues 3
Oh god….another person who wants to rip out a perfectly good engine and ruin a nice car by hot rodding it.
As it is, put the original wheels and wheel covers back on an one would have a nice little classic.
Rough for the asking price. Even if the asking price was significantly lower, the ad in its current configuration would make it a hard sell. There is a reason it’s been on the market for 9 weeks.
Steve R
This car looks like a project with its missing door interior and other issues. When complete, I am not sure that it is really worth what one will have in it just to have a weekend driver.
Lovely looking car. I can see this being an awesome resto project, or a restomod project.
Restomods. Bigger engines. Doesn’t anyone enjoy classic cars anymore without ruining them?
The 1st car that I ever owned was a 1966 Dodge Dart GT. It was a 2 door and it was the same dull brown/tan color as this car. It was very plain. This car reminds me of it. Why anyone would pay $5,600 for this car is beyond me.
They won’t.
Steve R
I agree. Assuming the car runs and drives fine as it is, why do anything with it? Just maintain it and enjoy it.
I once owned a 1972 Dodge Dart in Army Green. I paid $50 for it. Slant 6. Dark green vinyl seats. It was a reliable car and lasted many years with me, my older brother, baby brother and some guy who finally killed it because he didn’t change the oil like I told him. Last I knew it had over 300K miles on the engine before heading to the scrap yard.
had this one asa wagon (’66, 170/2.8 engine) w/my ’64 wagon’s motor swapped in. Put 300K mi on it w/just routeen maintinence. Hit all the parimter states of this big ol beautiful country (for 2 yrs @ the BiCentennial).
Came back east to drive a livery fleet of them for a friend. Went onto Aspens next. Last I saw him brought in the K cars (?Aries? correct name @ that time?) Lota dodge/plymouth wagons (3 gens) for the business. I think he drove a lincoln for himself tho. May be helped him feel like he was out of work if having to drive yet again?