Running 383 V8 Project: 1968 Dodge Charger

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When Chrysler redesigned their B-bodied intermediates for 1968, the Dodge Charger would be one of the big winners. Sales shot up from just 16,000 units to 96,100 automobiles. This ’68 Charger project looks like it’s well on its way to becoming an R/T clone, with R/T badging and suspension parts along with a 383 cubic inch V8. Much of the heavy lifting has already been done. Located in Stafford Springs, Connecticut, this Dodge is available here on eBay where the bidding has reached $27,200 with no reserve. Thanks, Larry D, for bringing this Mopar to our attention.

When Dodge introduced the Charger in mid-1966, the car looked and performed like a fastback pony car, but in a larger package. Public response was lackluster until the 1968-70 redesign came about that encompassed all of Chrysler’s mid-sized cars. With production on the rise, Dodge would build about 33,500 Chargers in 1968 with a 318 with a 2-barrel carburetor, which is how the seller’s car started out according to the VIN.

This Charger seems to have had much of the hard work already done. We’re told the frame and floors were in good shape when the effort started, but new full rear quarter panels, driver’s front fender, trunk pan with dropdowns, and all wheel-wells are said to be new, plus the deck lid has been replaced. The seller is including paint that can be used to match the insides of the trunk, engine compartment, and floors.

The original 318 is gone and a 383 4-barrel is in its place along with a 727-automatic transmission, 8 ¾ rear end, and springs and torsion bars that are to R/T specifications. It still needs a heater box and driveshaft and the one from the 318 is provided, but the seller doesn’t know if it will fit. Some interior pieces will come with the car, but a lot is missing that the buyer will have to source. We’re told the Charger is registered in Connecticut and they don’t issue titles for vehicles older than 20 years, so the registration will have to suffice as a title for converting in other states.  The seller has included a brief video of the operation of the car though it’s not yet complete.

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Comments

  1. Walter

    At least it’s not rusted. As someone who bought a pretty thrashed but running 69 R/T for $500 in 1981 the prices these go for today are amazing. Based on today’s market a clean body and frame are worth what this one is getting.
    I hope the buyer finishes the job. I will always love the 2nd generation Chargers, though I doubt I will ever own one again.

    Like 12
    • timothy r herrod

      The late 70’s and early 80’s were an amazing time to be alive. These B bodys were laying everywhere just waiting for someone to come along and take them home. 100 dollars was a half a weeks pay but it would get you one in decent shape, 4 speed cars were a little more but were usually in worse shape motorwise. My older brother was and still into his mopars, myself was in to gm stuff back then, the bigger cars not cameros, never cared for them and still dont

      Like 11
  2. 433jeff

    Holy Ka-ching! If we are rounding the corner on 30 grand, spend more and get one done. Not spending this kinda cash to have to rip out the 383 and get to work.

    After painting all summer in 1981 i had 750$ cash, i had a choice between a 70 ss396 4 speed bench car or a 71 charger 440 auto, i went chebby, 500$ got you a m21, 12 bolt posi , red black car, 350 hp 396, cowl hood ss bumper ect

    Like 6
    • Tom

      That’s pretty much the definition of “the good old days”…

      Like 1

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