Tidy Eight-Seater: 1972 Dodge Monaco Sport Wagon

Practicality is often a key consideration when an enthusiast begins their quest for a classic to park in their garage. The harsh reality is that a two-seat sports car won’t offer an engaging experience for a large family, but this 1972 Dodge Monaco Sport Wagon would. It presents beautifully, features a retrimmed interior, and the third-row seating provides room for the whole family. It is a turnkey proposition that you could drive home today. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Rocco B. for spotting this beauty.

Dodge released its Second Generation Monaco range in 1969, with cars remaining on sale until its replacement hit showroom floors for 1974. The 1972 model year may have been the most significant for the badge because the company performed a significant restyle that gave the range a lighter and more elegant appearance. This Wagon is a three-owner classic that underwent a repaint in its original Fiesta Green Metallic approximately twenty years ago. Its current condition suggests it has been treated respectfully because the paint retains a healthy shine and no evidence of deterioration or major issues. Examining the photos reveals a couple of minor panel imperfections, but they aren’t severe enough to warrant immediate attention. I believe that one of those paintless dent companies might be able to improve the situation, and it is an option I would examine. One of the Wagon’s distinctive features is the hidden headlights that give the front a clean and crisp appearance. There is no evidence of rust or other nasty surprises, and the trim and glass look excellent. The seller added the 17″ Magnum 500 wheels, and while I like the look, I’m still not sold on the spinners.

This Dodge features the entry-level 360ci V8 that sends 175hp and 285 ft/lbs of torque to a heavy-duty rear end via a three-speed A-727 automatic transmission. The Monaco is a big vehicle, but the power-assisted steering and front disc brakes should make driving fairly effortless. It is not a muscle wagon, although the ability to cruise effortlessly for hours at 70mph makes it ideal for family adventures. The seller claims that this beauty is essentially unmolested, but they recently added a 2½” TTI exhaust and Flowmaster mufflers, an electronic ignition, and an MSD coil and plug wires. It appears to have no mechanical shortcomings, with the seller suggesting the buyer could fly in and drive it home. There are few better ways to gain an intimate understanding of your new purchase, and depending on where you live, it is a great way to explore parts of the country you may never have seen previously.

If this Dodge’s exterior makes a positive impression, the interior lifts that to a far higher level. The seller recently completed a complete retrim utilizing products from SMS. They remained true to the Wagon’s origins, selecting the correct Green Elk and Green Coachman vinyl. It appears the Wagon also received a new carpet set and other interior hardware because criticizing its condition is virtually impossible. There is no evidence of wear or damage and no signs of broken plastic. The Monaco features the versatility of third-row seating, and although the seller describes it as a nine-seater, I probably wouldn’t squeeze three people onto the third-row. The two-way tailgate and rear step improve access, while the Wagon also comes with a power back window and a factory AM radio with the optional rear speaker.

The seller listed this 1972 Dodge Monaco Wagon here on Craigslist in beautiful Sidney, British Columbia, Canada. They set their price at $26,900, and while that isn’t pocket change, it is worth noting that this classic appears to need nothing. The seller is confident that the new owner could fly in and drive it home without raising a sweat. If a family Wagon ideal for cross-country adventures is on your Wish List, this Dodge might be worth pursuing further.