It is the age-old question posed by many project candidates; At what point has a classic reached the point of no return? That is the one facing any enthusiasts considering tackling the restoration of this 1968 Dodge Charger. To say that it has rust issues would be a masterly understatement because it demonstrates why it is a good thing that glass can’t corrode. However, some may look at it and feel that its mechanical specifications make it worthy of saving. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Chuck F for spotting the Charger listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Maiden, North Carolina. The seller set their price at $13,500 OBO but may consider trades for an appropriate vehicle.

Dodge released its Second Generation Charger for the 1968 model year. The company took a more mainstream approach compared to its predecessor, aiming to lower the sticker price and increase sales volumes. It hit the mark in 1968, with the final tally exceeding the company’s projections by an impressive 274%. This Dodge is a first-year example that the original owner ordered in Charger Red. The frontal shot reveals the grille, with its hidden headlamps, that is in good condition. Sadly, it is probably also this car’s highlight. Rust was a problem that plagued the Charger, and this one hasn’t avoided that fate. It would probably be easier to name the items not requiring attention because the list of steel required to return the body to a structurally sound state is extensive. The floors, trunk pan, rockers, rear valance, lower doors, and other hanging panels are all little more than dust. A competent person could address the problems, but the rails and cowl are best left to experienced hands to maximize future occupant safety. The chrome is generally looking tired, but the glass may be okay, and the wheels look good.

This interior shot graphically demonstrates the difference between the terms “flawless” and “floorless.” Sadly, this Charger falls into the latter category. However, the interior retains its crucial components like the seats as a starting point for a retrim. As with the steel, the shopping list to replace missing parts will be long, although most of the items are relatively small and inexpensive. The first owner ordered this classic with air conditioning, which would have made life aboard this Charger quite pleasant on hot days.

Perhaps this Charger’s greatest strength when it was new was its mechanical configuration. It may not have been the most potent version of the Charger available in 1968, but it would have been a sleeper. Its 383ci V8 sent 330hp and 425 ft/lbs of torque to an 8¾” rear end via a three-speed A-727 automatic transmission. The first owner’s decision to equip the car with power assistance for the steering and brakes meant that the driver didn’t need to be built like the Incredible Hulk to manhandle this muscle car. The ¼-mile journey would have taken 15 seconds, while the engine would run out of breath with the needle nudging 126mph. The seller doesn’t expressly state that this Charger is numbers-matching, although that is the impression conveyed in their listing. It is complete, but the accumulated corrosion suggests it has been many years since this Dodge fired a shot in anger. It is unclear whether the V8 turns, but factoring a mechanical rebuild into the restoration budget would be wise.

It will be fascinating to gauge your response to this 1968 Dodge Charger, and whether you believe that it is worth bringing back from the brink. The bodyshell requires hundreds, or even thousands of hours of work before it could be considered structurally sound. A competent person could tackle some of the repairs in a home workshop, but some will definitely require professional attention. After all, there’s no point owning a sparkling classic if it could potentially collapse like a soggy cardboard box in an accident. It is better to be safe than sorry when lives are at stake. There are also question marks hanging over the health of its potent drivetrain. I am an optimist, but even I feel that this Charger has graced our streets for the last time. Do you agree?