Most folks remember the Dodge Dart as a compact car. That was between 1963 and 1976. But in 1960-61, it was a full-size offering with a shorter wheelbase that outsold some of the other Dodge offerings. The seller has a 1960 Dart Phoenix, which had the best trim package of the Darts. This Mopar runs and drives but needs some cosmetic love. Located in Hummelstown, Pennsylvania, the car needs restoring — something you might call the “Rise of the Phoenix” (ha, ha?). It’s available here on Facebook Marketplace for $4,250.
Between 1960 and 1963, the Dart went through three phases. First, it was a full-size car, then a mid-size (remember the ill-fated downsizing move and the “Plucked Chickens”?), and finally a compact. After the Dart was replaced by the Aspen in 1976, the name disappeared until it was revived on another compact from the Fiat world in 2012. A Slant-Six was standard, with a 318 cubic inch V8 being the next step up, as in the seller’s car. In 1960, the great majority of Dodges sold were the Dart.
This Dodge is pretty crusty, bad enough for state inspectors to fail it on its most recent inspection attempt. Mechanically, the car may be sound and has a push-button TorqueFlite automatic and lots of power accessories (steering, brakes, windows, and seats). The 318 has a 4-barrel carburetor, which was also an option in 1960. Two of the tires are new, and a new exhaust is coming along for the buyer to install.
Unibody construction was introduced to Dodge and Plymouth in 1960. Because of its integration of the frame and body panels, once unibody corrosion sets in, it can be more difficult to eradicate later. We don’t know how much of it this car has, but if the State of Pennsylvania is concerned, should you be worried? Thanks for the tip, “Gary”.
Looks like another WASTE of time and especially MONEY!