What is this car? The seller states that it’s a 1964 Dodge Dart GT convertible, and I agree. It’s also claimed to be a Golden Anniversary edition because 1964 marked Dodge’s 50th year. Well, I’m not sure about that one. This car is also claimed to have traveled 529,673 miles! Really? There’s a lot to consider here, so let’s delve in. Aspidude found the listing for this tired-looking drop-top; it’s located in Mountain Club, California, and is listed here on Facebook Marketplace for $4,500.
As usual, research generates conflicting positions. In a nutshell, and according to For A Bodies Only, a Golden Anniversary Dart should have words to some effect denoting the milestone etched into the steering wheel center, along with gold-hued trim and a two-tone paint job – things this ’64 Dart does not possess. Does it really matter? Probably not, but as stated, the 411 I could find on the topic was vague and contradictory. What I could determine, however, is that there were almost 51K Dart GTs assembled in ’64, but I couldn’t find a breakdown for the coupe vs. the convertible. This particular example is a bit rough in its presentation. The finish is faded; some rust in the passenger-side quarter panel is evident, but the top and chrome bits still present well, and all of the trim is still attached. This is definitely an original specimen – just a tired original specimen.
Powering this compact is a 145 gross HP 225 CI “slant-six” engine, which makes only forward momentum via a TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission. I emphasize “forward” because this car has no reverse. The seller claims, “The engine runs, and the car drives forward and shifts smoothly through the forward gears.” Now, a slant-six is a durable engine, one of the all-time champions in that department, but over 500,000 miles of durability? The odometer shows 29,697 miles of experience, but the seller clearly states the recording as being 529,673 – and there’s no error with the comma placement. I’d put this item on hold and make an inquiry.
The interior’s condition reflects that of the exterior; it’s faded and baked, probably from too much time in the California sun. The driver’s seat bottom rest has moved on to shreds, and the other seating positions have their problems too. The environment is not in terrible shape, mind you, but it could stand some reupholstering and general sprucing up. It would probably be a good idea to inspect the underside of the floor pans.
The big story here should be the mileage reading, assuming that it’s true. But then again, do you want to lead with that item in a sale listing? Probably not. As for the confusion around the Golden Anniversary business, it seems doubtful that it’s a value enhancer or detractor. The big news for Dart in ’64 was the first-year availability of a 273 CI V8 engine – that would definitely make a difference from an attraction perspective, but that’s not obviously the case here. So, $4,500 for a tired six-cylinder Dart GT convertible- what do you think, priced right or not quite?
Looks interesting, IF, the underside is solid.
While not an in demand model, this would make a great project car.
Repair the rot, fresh paint, interior, and top.
Drop in a 340 ?
This could be fun runner with all in under 20 K
Mileage really doesn’t matter at this cars asking price. The car will speak for itself, factor in the need to replace the transmission, be happy if you can resolve the issues once you get it home. I’d buff the paint, make sure it’s safe and reliable, then drive it. By doing so you will have an economical classic car, which is what everyone says they want.
Steve R