Highly Optioned: 1965 Dodge Coronet 500

Some buyers walk into dealerships with a strict budget, ordering their new car with few or no factory options. Others throw caution to the wind, splashing significant cash to create the car of their dreams. The original owner of this 1965 Dodge Coronet 500 chose the second path, equipping the vehicle with features that perfectly combine comfort with impressive performance. The Coroent presents beautifully and is a turnkey proposition that is ready for immediate action. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mike F. for spotting this beauty listed here on Craigslist in Brighton, Colorado. The seller set their price at $48,000 OBO.

After a five-year absence, Dodge revived the Coronet badge in 1965 when it released its Fifth Generation range. Buyers were spoiled for choice, with this car’s first owner selecting the range-topping 500 variant. The car presents superbly following a 2003 bare-metal repaint in its original shade of Ruby Red, with a Black vinyl top. The process proved fairly straightforward because this classic has remained rust-free and accident-free throughout its life. The absence of any glaring signs of deterioration after over two decades suggests that the shop performing the work prioritized quality. The panels are straight, and the sparkling trim perfectly contrasts with the paint shade. The tinted glass is clear, and the narrow whitewalls provide the ideal finishing touch.

Sadly, the seller supplies no engine bay images, but there is plenty of good news hiding under the hood. This Coronet is more than a pretty face, with its 383ci V8 delivering 330hp and 425 ft/lbs of torque. The first owner teamed the 383 with a three-speed A-727 TorqueFlite transmission, power steering, and power brakes. That combination should provide an effortless driving experience while commanding respect at any “Traffic Light Grand Prix.” Potential buyers prioritizing documentation will welcome the news that the deal includes the original Window Sticker, and Service Records dating back to Day One. Therefore, verifying the odometer reading of 86,600 miles should be a piece of cake. The seller states that the Dodge runs and drives like new, ready to head into the sunset with its new owner behind the wheel.

The first owner continued ticking boxes on their Order Form when they focused on the Coronet’s interior. They equipped it with air conditioning, power windows, bucket seats, a console with a factory tachometer, and a pushbutton radio with the Reverb feature. The Black trim appears to have a couple of minor imperfections on the seats, but there is no evidence of rips, tears, or UV damage. The dash is excellent, the pad is crack-free, and the carpet exhibits only minimal wear. I would consider the condition impressive for a survivor-grade vehicle of this vintage, with no glaring needs or problems, and no aftermarket additions.

If you favor Mopar classics, this 1965 Dodge Coronet 500 will look pretty attractive. Even if you aren’t specifically a Mopar fan, the thought of owning a potent 1960s classic may draw you to it like a moth to a flame. That is understandable, because it has so many positive attributes. Those focused on pure performance will appreciate the 383ci V8 under the hood, while those seeking a complete package will welcome the interior features. The Coronet has only been on the market for a few days, and I won’t be surprised if it finds a new home fairly quickly. If you have previously owned a ’65 Coronet, could this car tempt you to repeat that experience?