In its later years, the Dodge Dart was a poster child for basic, economical transportation, serving that role capably until production ended in 1976. While the Dart was usually dubbed a compact, it didn’t start out that way, as the first examples were considered full-size automobiles, though not quite as large as some of the period’s competing offerings. Debuting as a 1960 model, the Dart came in 3 trim levels, starting with the base Seneca. Next was the mid-range Pioneer, followed by the top-of-the-line Phoenix, like this one here on Facebook Marketplace. It’s a project priced at $6,000 and located in St. Peters, Missouri, and we’d like to thank Barn Finds reader Zappeduster for the fine Mopar tip here!
The 1960 Dart Phoenix featured a beautiful exterior design penned by Virgil Exner, and it’s a true one-year-only body, as the ’61 cars took on a significantly different appearance. This one seems mostly complete on the outside, with the seller noting some rust along the lower rear area. It still appears fairly solid from the doors forward, so hopefully a skilled sheet metal artist can make the needed quarter panel repairs and get this one ready for a respray in no time. Interestingly, there’s a vintage metal tag on the back from Cumberland in Nashville, which was one of the earliest Dodge Dealers in the country.
The interior is described as original, and while it could use some work here and there, it still looks decent considering the age. A seam separation is present on the left edge of the driver’s seat, but I’m not spotting any other obvious upholstery tears. There’s no headliner, so the buyer will either need to source one or have it fabricated, and repairing or replacing that cracked steering wheel would be money well spent. The automatic transmission is controlled by push buttons on the dash, although it’s not reported whether it’s still shifting properly.
Unfortunately, the 361 engine is locked up, so the next owner will have to decide whether it makes more sense to rebuild it or install something entirely different under the hood. The brakes aren’t working either, so several mechanical tasks will likely be required before this one’s ready to get back on the road. Still, with its cool, forward-looking design and rare body style, this Dodge undoubtedly deserves to be saved. Is this 1960 Dart Phoenix one you’d be interested in resurrecting from the ashes?
My first automotive recollection was when our family picked up our new 1960 Dodge Dart at the dealership. It was a low-option Seneca. I would have been 3 3/4 years old. I remember how exciting that day was.
And all these years later, cars still interest and excite me.
Thanks Mike.
Interesting specimen. I remember a time when a Forward Look hardtop such as this would command large money in about any form. The ask is not unreasonable but the market for selling anything is. I prefer the Plymouth for 60 over this Dodge. But still wouldn’t be unhappy. Hope it gets a good home.