Tackling a full-blown restoration can intimidate some people, but this 1966 Chrysler Newport offers a tantalizing alternative. It has sat for years, but the seller’s images suggest it is a solid classic that would present nicely as a survivor-grade vehicle if cleaned and detailed. The biggest challenge would be coaxing it back to life mechanically, though that may not be difficult since it ran when parked. The final piece of the puzzle could be its affordability, with the seller asking $8,500 for this classic. If you’re becoming interested, you will find the Newport listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Almena, Kansas.
Chrysler released a dramatically restyled Newport in 1965, based on the same platform as the New Yorker and the 300. The appearance was more modern, featuring crisp lines that were less curvaceous than its predecessor’s. It saw only minor changes in 1966, with tweaks to the grille and taillights. Our featured Hardtop rolled off the line that year, finished in Frost Turquoise. Assessing the paint condition beneath the accumulated dust is challenging, but washing and polishing the car might make it presentable as a survivor-grade classic. The seller supplies only driver-side images in the listing, which is disappointing. However, the lack of visible rust in the body’s lower extremities is encouraging. It suggests a relatively dry storage environment, but it would still be wise to climb beneath this Hardtop to confirm the state of the floors and rails. The front bumper exhibits one small rust spot, but the remaining trim looks like it would respond well to polish, and there are no obvious glass issues.
The Chrysler’s interior provides more encouraging news. It isn’t pristine, but I believe that a deep clean would lift its appearance markedly. The back seat and the door trims are in good condition, while the front seat features a small tear and a seam separation on the driver’s side. I would consult a competent upholsterer about both faults, because a blind patch might address the tear, and the images suggest the seam separation could be restitched. I’m unsure whether it retains its original radio, but with the compressor belt intact, the air conditioning may have worked when the owner parked this classic.
Chrysler offered 1966 Newport buyers a choice of two versions of the 383ci V8, and I am unsure which this car features. The factory quoted 270hp and 390 ft/lbs for the two-barrel variant, while the four-barrel produced 325hp and 425 ft/lbs. Either way, it sent its power to the road through a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission, and the first owner ticked the boxes for power steering and power brakes on their Order Form. The seller states that this beauty doesn’t run or drive, and the accumulated dust suggests it has hibernated for years. Some readers will clench their teeth when I say that it ran when parked, but if the motor still turns, it might not take much work to coax the V8 back to life. Potential buyers should remember that many perishable items have probably deteriorated, the fluids won’t be great, and that the revival will almost certainly include a fuel system clean and flush. However, a competent enthusiast could tackle most of those tasks in a home workshop without splashing cash on labor.
It will be interesting to gauge readers’ views on this 1966 Chrysler Newport Hardtop. It looks promising, with no obvious signs of rust. Only an in-person inspection can confirm that, and negotiating one would be the next logical step. If it is rock-solid and the V8 turns over, it could be a winner. There’s one other factor to consider before reaching out to the seller. They listed the Chrysler four weeks ago, and although they may not be desperate to sell, they might be more willing to negotiate the sale price. I strongly recommend being respectful if you follow that path, but politely asking the question might be worthwhile. After all, what is the worst they can say?
My Dad had a 1965 Chrysler Newport, that was his to and from work car, in the early 1970s. He didn’t have it very long and I don’t remember why he sold it.
I think of Rex whenever I see one of these…I will be very interested to read his commentary on this example.
Yes, I bet Rex would love this 2 Dr Hardtop Newport. If the engine turns freely it may be good news. Looks to be in survivor condition body wise and the interior looks good too. Also a factory air car with PS and PB. Fair asking price for what it is.