It is undeniable that by the mid-1970s, tight emission regulations had sapped engine power. Once potent V8s developed a reputation for transforming fuel into noise, and outright performance seemed a thing of the past. However, companies like Dodge stepped up to the plate with cars like this 1974 Dart Sport 360. It can get up and moving with a decent prod of the gas pedal, and this car presents superbly as a driver-grade classic. It appears to need virtually nothing and is ideal for someone seeking a 1970s classic that will turn heads. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P for spotting this beauty.

The Dart name had served Dodge well since the first examples hit showrooms for the 1960 model year. It evolved throughout the 1960s, with the company releasing its Fourth Generation in 1967. That Generation proved resilient, remaining on sale until Dodge retired the badge in 1976. Our feature car is a 1974 Dart Sport 360 that presents beautifully. Its Golden Fawn paint looks virtually perfect, cloaking panels as straight as an arrow and featuring consistent gaps. The seller doesn’t mention a history of repairs or restoration, but the overall appearance suggests it has received careful cosmetic TLC at some point. There is no evidence of rust, and the lack of visible surface corrosion in areas like the engine bay auger well. The trim and glass are as spotless as the rest of the exterior, and the American Racing Torq Thrust wheels perfectly suit its muscular appearance.

One of the more significant pieces of news for 1974 was Dodge’s decision to drop the 340ci V8 from its Dart engine range. It could easily have spelled the end for a high-performance variant, but the company stepped up to the plate with the Sport 360. As the name suggests, lifting its hood revealed a 360ci V8 producing 245hp and 320 ft/lbs of torque. This car’s original owner teamed the V8 with a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission and power steering, allowing the Sport to cover the ¼-mile in 15.5 seconds. That figure probably doesn’t seem spectacular by modern standards, but it was considered impressive at a time when manufacturers and many buyers focused on fuel efficiency. However, this Dart might be able to produce a better ET, courtesy of the new Edelbrock carburetor and Magnaflow exhaust. The seller recently added an enormous list of new suspension and steering components while replacing the radiator, starter, alternator, and fuel pump. They supply no information on how it runs or drives, although the visual indications are positive.

If I were to mark this Dart’s interior harshly, I would criticize the carpet wear and marks under the driver’s feet. It isn’t horrendous and is presentable, but it represents a low point in an interior with no other significant faults. The Beige upholstered surfaces show no appreciable wear, and the dash and pad are excellent. The woodgrain is in good order, and the seller recently installed a new headliner and radio. It looks like there is an under-dash air conditioning unit, but with the engine bay devoid of hardware, it is unclear whether it ever functioned. I would probably splash some cash on a new carpet set if this Dart found its way into my workshop. Otherwise, it needs nothing.

The seller listed this 1974 Dodge Dart Sport 360 here on Craigslist in North West Denver, Colorado. They set their price at $24,000, stating that they believe that figure to be reasonable. It looks high compared to valuations provided by the good folks at NADA and Hagerty, but it is in the ballpark compared to other examples currently on the market. It is a turnkey proposition that presents superbly and appears to need little. That could be enough to convince someone to part with their hard-earned cash to drive it home. Would you consider it?