Although the Dart was always considered a competent performer, Dodge raised the bar in 1964 by offering customers the option to order their car with the newly released 273ci V8. Suddenly, the Dart was a much better proposition, and our featured classic combines the 273 with the desirable four-speed manual transmission. It runs and drives, and as a rock-solid survivor, it could be an excellent project candidate. The seller has listed the Dart here on Craigslist in Temecula, California. With an asking price of $7,750, it is undoubtedly an affordable proposition for those considering a first restoration.
Dodge introduced its Third Generation Dart range in 1963 as its new “senior compact” offering after dropping the Lancer name. It proved a masterstroke, with sales climbing sharply compared to the previous year. Our featured Dart rolled off the line in 1964, and is a rock-solid classic that has spent its life in California. That’s excellent news for potential buyers, because whatever path they choose in the future, it won’t involve cutting away and repairing rust. That brings us to the paint shade, which is a mystery. I’ve checked Dodge color charts for that model year, and this Yellow doesn’t appear anywhere. It is possible that someone performed a fairly thorough color change at some point, or that this Dart was a special order. Only an in-person inspection will reveal the truth if the seller cannot shed any light on the subject. Some trim pieces require a trip to the platers, and while there is no cracked glass, the windshield has years of accumulated rub marks inflicted by the wipers.
Chrysler unveiled its LA Series engine range for the 1964 model year, with the 273ci V8 the first to find its way under the hood. This Dart features its original 273, a four-speed manual transmission, and power-assisted four-wheel drum brakes. The venerable 225ci slant-six produced 145hp and 215 ft/lbs of torque, but the 273 lifted those figures to 180hp and 260 ft/lbs. However, this motor might place a few additional ponies at the driver’s disposal, because the seller has upgraded the carburetor to a four-barrel. They also recently replaced the shocks, exhaust, and the front sway bar. The indications are that this Dart is a turnkey proposition.
This Dart’s interior raises as many questions as the exterior paint shade, because the seller doesn’t provide any interior images without the front seats hidden beneath slipcovers. However, since they use the word “nice” in their assessment, it suggests the upholstery is in good condition. The carpet is new, but the wheel is cracked, and the dash shows age-related deterioration. It isn’t a horror story, although the new owner may decide to replace a few trim pieces to improve the appearance. It features a pushbutton radio, an underdash tachometer, and an auxiliary gauge cluster.
Honestly, this 1964 Dodge Dart is unlikely to leave many genuine muscle cars shaking in their boots. However, its drivetrain combination and list of recent mechanical work promise a genuinely enjoyable motoring experience. Its rust-free status and lack of major panel imperfections are a bonus, allowing the new owner to tackle a cosmetic restoration when, or if, they feel it is warranted. Those factors, along with the asking price, are why this Dart deserves a closer look.
This looks like a great Dart. So many boxes are checked on this one too. The 273, 4 speed, bucket seats. It really has a lot going for it. I’ve driven a Dart with a 273, but with an automatic though, and they definitely punch above their weight class, and can surprise you for its size. They run very well, and they also respond well to exhaust work and a 4 barrel too. Thanks Adam.
It’s Daffodil Yellow and was probably a late production car
Yep….the little 273 was offered late in the 1964 model year .
If this car was in Florida….. I’d buy it today!!!
This looks like a nice driver for someone that wants a 1960’s V8, 4spd driver for a reasonable price. For some reason, potential buyers aren’t particularly interested, it’s been listed for 24 days and counting.
Steve R
Locationlocationlocation…….
It’s Google says it’s 1hr 27 minutes (85.1mi) South East of down town Los Angeles on highway 15, that puts it within a couple of hours to 10,000,000 people.
Steve R
I like the car and the price ,even the color.
pretty rare to see 1 with a factory v8.
My kind of project. Great bones and well set up, but on the wrong side of the great divide! A runner ready to be put to use.
V-8, 4 spd, new brakes, exhaust & sway bar, what’s not to like? Additional upgrades can be performed as needed. Off the bat the only change I’d make is to the color.
I’ve no need for the time or expense of a restoration with a gem like this. Just give me the title so I can register and then drive it, daily.
I’ll bet that with some upgraded brakes and suspension this could be a delightful car to tour around in.
Looking at the top of the firewall I’d say it’s been resprayed.
This seems like a good price for 4 speed 273 Dart in this condition. In 1964 my mom was in the market for a new car. I tried to persuade her that this was what she should buy (she knew how to drive a stick). Brought her the brochures. How could she not see the value?
She bought a 64 Rambler American 4 door flat head six automatic. If this were closer I’d take a look.
What a groovy car!
My friend had one like it with bull horns on the hood – that car was practically bulletproof
A neighbor/Friends father bought a 67 Valiant
273/4 speed 4 bbl and my goodness I was surprised at how quick the little car was.
His Cousin had a 68 auto Roadrunner and the Valiant with 3 of us could handily outrun the 383 with one person, no not a hemi car by any imagination but it held its own. the 4 speed brought the better gearing so that’s a huge help with these high revving little gems. Good time back in the day, put many smiles on my teenaged face. The local Plymouth Dealer’s Son asked my buddy to call him if he ever wanted to sell the car, some 30 years later my buddy wanted to move up to a 68 barracuda and that dealers Son was there within hours, he had to have that for his collection and I don’t blame him.
Overall a nice looking little Dart that could use work in some areas, but that you could certainly drive and enjoy while fixing it up.
I’d like more info on the 65 Dodge Dart. Pics/price and location.
Reach out to the seller thru the linked craigslist ad. Hit the reply button in the ad and a drop down menu has an email address and a phone available.
As far as I know Dodge did not offer yellow as a color choice for Darts in 1964. They did offer a paler shade of yellow for spring in 1965. This is not that color yellow. Also note that the brakes on this car have been upgraded to a dual reservoir master cylinder but is still 4 wheel drum.