Finding an affordable project candidate can be challenging, but enthusiasts with Mopar leanings might like this 1967 Dodge Polara. It isn’t a pretty sight in its current form, but the seller states it is a solid vehicle featuring its original 383ci V8 under the hood. The exterior has visible rust, but if the Polara is structurally sound, it could be a winner. The seller has listed it here on eBay in Coupeville, Washington. They set their BIN at $6,250 with the option to make an offer.
The seller is sparing with their information about this Polara, emphasizing how many good parts it contains. They don’t say when it was parked or why, though the engine bay may reveal clues. Ordered by the first owner in Medium Blue Metallic, it would have been a handsome car in its prime. The paint looks tired and has worn through in places. Rust is also visible in some lower areas. However, none of those problems appear bad enough to warrant wholesale panel replacement when well-crafted patches would cost considerably less and achieve a similar result. I wish the seller had supplied a few underside shots, because I’m sure I’m not alone in wanting to assess the floors and rails. The trim looks acceptable for a driver-grade build, and the glass is clear.
This image tells us much about this Polara’s interior. Trimmed in Blue vinyl matching the exterior, the positive news is that it is complete. From there, things head downhill fairly rapidly. Many of the vinyl surfaces have either aged or split, and the headliner hangs down like party streamers. Add the badly worn carpet and cracked wheel to the mix, and the interior looks like it needs a total restoration. The process won’t be cheap, and will probably add around $2,000 to the restoration budget. It isn’t lavishly equipped, but the Polara left the line with air conditioning and an AM radio.
The ace up this Polara’s sleeve could hide beneath its hood. The first owner ordered it with the 383ci “HP” V8, delivering 325hp and 425 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission. They also equipped the car with power steering and power brakes for an effortless driving experience. You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to discover that this Dodge doesn’t run or drive. It is unclear when someone began dismantling the motor or why, but most of the removed parts are in the trunk. I suspect someone planned a rebuild, although it is unclear whether that was simply a refresh or whether a major internal issue required attention. It would be worth asking the seller, because significant internal engine damage raises further questions about the project’s viability.
This 1967 Dodge Polara leaves me wanting more information. I wish the seller had supplied a few underside shots, because the floors and rails are critical areas that would determine whether it is a worthwhile project candidate. The sticking point could be the price, because even pristine examples aren’t mega-bucks classics. However, if the visible rust is the extent of the problems and the new owner can be hands-on, it could be a financially viable restoration. Do you agree?
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