Triple-Black Treat: 1968 Dodge Charger R/T

This 1968 Dodge Charger R/T leaves its new owner with choices to make. It presents nicely following an older restoration, and its paint and trim combination guarantee it makes a striking visual statement. It has rust issues the buyer could address at their leisure, but the fact that it is no longer numbers-matching might tempt some to follow the Restomod path. It comes with a fascinating past, and while it won’t add to its potential value, it proves this Charger was enjoyed as its creators intended.

Dodge followed a more mainstream approach when it released the Second Generation Charger in 1968. The 2+2 interior and electroluminescent gauges were history, with the Charger’s trim and equipment levels more in keeping with traditional affordable muscle cars. The first owner ordered this 1968 R/T in Triple Black, with the seller admitting it is an older restoration. It was probably necessary because it appears the car has a racing past. They don’t elaborate on this, but the fact the restoration entailed replacing the original rear quarter panels tells us a lot. The previous owner had radiused the wheel arches to accommodate larger wheels and tires, suggesting this Charger spent time on the drag strip. The car presents nicely, with the paint and Black vinyl top in good order. The underside is pretty solid, with only the front floorplans requiring attention to address rust. The trim and glass are acceptable for a driver-grade classic, and somebody thoughtfully converted the often troublesome headlamp doors to electric operation to improve reliability. The American Racing Torq Thrust wheels round out the exterior, and while they aren’t original, they aren’t this car’s most significant change.

This R/T was a potent package in its prime, making its racing history understandable. Its engine bay housed a 440ci V8 that sent 375hp and 480 ft/lbs of torque to the rear wheels via a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission. It could clock a 14.3-second ¼-mile ET off the showroom floor, although some owners had little trouble producing sub-14-second times with mild tuning and better tires. I suspect the racing activities exacted a heavy toll on this car because the 440 is a distant memory. A 383 of 1967 vintage now occupies its rightful place, delivering 270hp and 390 ft/lbs. Performance would still be acceptable by most measures, but I believe many potential buyers will search for options to return the car to something resembling its glory days. Sourcing a correct 440 shouldn’t present too many obstacles, although the lack of a numbers-matching status may motivate a few to consider a Restomod build. The winning bidder has time to consider their options because this Charger is a turnkey proposition they can enjoy immediately.

The first owner’s decision to order this Charger with Black vinyl trim represented the final piece of the puzzle that guaranteed it would turn heads. They selected bucket seats, a console, and the ultra-cool Tick-Tock-Tach to round out the package. The seller admits the front seats require new covers and a new carpet set wouldn’t go astray. The headliner is wrinkled in a few spots, but careful attention may allow the buyer to stretch it into shape. The factory radio waved goodbye, with its rightful spot occupied by a modern CD player. A close inspection will undoubtedly reveal a few small issues requiring attention, but the new seatcovers and carpet would make an enormous difference.

The seller listed this 1968 Dodge Charger R/T here on eBay in Ocala, Florida. Bidding has raced past the reserve, sitting at $24,100 at the time of writing. The action suggests it may climb as the end nears, but by how much is an open question. It will be fascinating to gauge your opinion, and how you would proceed if you became its new owner. Some may choose preservation, while others will undoubtedly favor sourcing a date-correct 440 to return it to its original form. A third group will find the Restomod path irresistible. It will be interesting to see whether we have anyone who will take matters a step further by submitting a bid. So, it’s over to you.