Bluesmobile Replica! 1974 Dodge Monaco

For so many reasons, not the least of which was that it featured a 1974 Dodge Monaco that Elwood told Jake was 440-powered, The Blues Brothers was one of those films that remained on my frequent watch list for decades.  It’s just one of those movies that makes me laugh a lot, plus I love the music, especially getting to see John Lee Hooker performing on the streets of Chicago.  This 1974 Dodge Monaco here on Facebook Marketplace certainly isn’t the first Mopar that’s been fixed up to emulate the famous Bluesmobile, but it’s a respectable effort for those seeking something that’s sure to draw attention everywhere you go.  Priced at $13,500, this one is located in Oswego, Illinois, not far at all from The Windy City, and we’d like to thank reader Zappenduster for providing the tip here!

As far as attention to detail goes, this one scores pretty high, with the seller stating that it’s been aged outside to look dirty like an old, worn-out police car.  Kudos are also owed to the owner for being forthcoming about some rust and body filler, and he states that if you want a pristine car, you’d better keep looking.  On the other hand, police cruisers tend to live an abusive life, and I’m sure those in a climate like Chicago receive some exceptionally hard use during the winter months, so I’m thinking this one’s probably just about at the right funk-level outside to function as an ideal Bluesmobile.

In 1974, the 440 was still an option in the Monaco, and it’s reported that many of the various Bluesmobiles used in the movie were indeed equipped with this desirable engine.  However, this one features a 400, which was the next size down, but it’s good that the seller states this is still the original V8 and that it runs well and starts right up.  Unfortunately, the motor is burning a little oil, so don’t forget to check the dipstick periodically.  It’s not mentioned whether or not the automatic transmission is still original.

While it’s said to have started out green, much of the interior has been turned tan, with its condition appearing more than acceptable for a Bluesmobile driver.  Besides the fuel gauge and A/C, everything inside is stated to be functioning, so there’s probably not much to do here other than get behind the wheel wearing a black suit and dark shades.  This one seems like a fun build, and I can also appreciate that the idea here is function, not perfection.  Did the maker hit their mark with this 1974 Dodge Monaco?