Original Hemi: 1968 Dodge Charger R/T

Although we’ve seen plenty of cars crossing our desks that have emerged from garages and barns, we sometimes see classics with slightly more left-field backgrounds. This 1968 Dodge Charger R/T is a perfect example, having recently returned to North America after spending its life in Venezuela. However, as fascinating as that is, there is more to this R/T than its backstory. It is a rock-solid survivor, and the engine bay houses its original Hemi V8. It doesn’t run or drive, but reviving it should be a rewarding undertaking. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Rocco B. for spotting the Charger listed here on eBay in Celeste, Texas. The seller set their price at $279,000 with the option to make an offer.

This Charger rolled off the line in 1968, produced as an export vehicle destined for Venezuela. As such, its glovebox houses the appropriate Owner’s Manual and other documentation, including the original Broadcast Sheet. The first owner ordered it in Dark Blue Metallic with a Black vinyl top. The seller states that the paint and vinyl are original, and the car has never received a restoration. As such, it carries a wide selection of paint imperfections and the occasional small ding. I’ve scrutinized the seller’s image gallery, and I believe there might be a more significant dent in the driver’s side rear quarter panel, between the door and the wheel arch. Otherwise, the photos confirm that this beauty is rust-free. The vinyl looks quite nice, and the glass is clear. The trim looks comfortably acceptable for a survivor-grade classic of this vintage, and the car features the iconic covered headlamps.

This Charger means business. Its first owner ordered it with the legendary 426ci Hemi V8 under the hood. By ticking the boxes beside the three-speed TorqueFlite transmission, a 3.23 Sure Grip rear end, power steering, and power front disc brakes, they received a car with extraordinary performance and a relatively effortless driving experience. The Charger R/T is a muscle car, and with the Hemi churning out 425hp and 490 ft/lbs of torque, that status is undeniable. The seller emphasizes the originality of this numbers-matching R/T, stating that even the battery is original. Its return to its country of origin coincided with the Charger receiving a new exhaust and new tires. The vehicle doesn’t currently run or drive, and hasn’t done either for years.  Reviving the Charger shouldn’t be difficult if the engine turns freely, but given the car’s originality, I wouldn’t rush that project. I’d take my time to minimize the chances of doing damage that could cost a significant sum to fix.

The first owner didn’t focus exclusively on performance when ordering this Charger, opting to load the interior with a few desirable factory features. Unsurprisingly, given where it spent its life, it is a heater-delete vehicle. However, the interior features bucket seats, a console, power windows, an AM radio/8-track player with three speakers, and a Rally gauge cluster with a Tick-Tock-Tach. The interior looks surprisingly good for its age, with no significant wear or damaged vinyl. There is something odd about the console near the driver’s right leg, but that is the only genuine concern. There is no damaged plastic or evidence of UV deterioration. Overall, I think the interior would present well following a deep clean.

This 1968 Dodge Charger is an extraordinary find, especially coming from such an unusual location. The Hemi makes it among the most desirable examples produced during that model year, although the seller’s BIN may have cooled buyer interest. For me, the big question is what the future holds for this classic. Restoring it to a factory-fresh state should be relatively straightforward, and is the path some readers would follow. Others would contend that its lack of rust issues makes it a prime candidate for preservation, arguing that they’re only original once. I don’t believe that there is a right or a wrong answer; I would simply like to see this Charger return to its rightful place on our roads. Do you agree?