Dodge Dart: A Muscle Car Concept You Can Actually Drive!
Undoubtedly, some of the most beloved automobiles from the glorious years of muscle cars were Mopars. Through Dodge, iconic models entered the scene such as the Charger, Challenger, and the Coronet Super Bee. At any junkyard, these cars can stir up an incredible excitement in even the most experienced barn find hunters.
Tracking down a classic Mopar concept auto is a challenge. Fortunately, YouTube personality Lou Costabile visited the Klairmont Kollections Automotive Museum in Chicago, IL to inspect an exclusive 1969 Dodge Dart Swinger 340 Concept vehicle. His video log provides an insight into the rare and spotless condition of this prized muscle car from the 1970s.
Until 1967, the Dodge Dart was a minimized full-size car created to supplant the Plymouth. Then, after the accomplishment of the Plymouth Road Runner, Dodge generated the Hemi Dart with a 426 cu. in. V8 and a Hurst shifter in 1968.
In 1969, Dodge provided buyers with a two-door hardtop “Swinger” version of the Dart to offer them an alternative to the more extreme Hemi and to prevent any confusion with the upcoming 1970 Challenger. This model was powered by a standard 275-hp 340 cu. in. 4-barrel V8.
The sparkling Maroon Metallic 1969 Dodge Dart Swinger 340 that Costabile finds is a manufacturer’s prototype vehicle powered by the V8 engine. Dodge employed well-known Detroit modders Larry and Mike Alexander to revamp it exclusively for the 1969 Chicago Auto Show, converting it into an unparalleled marvel.
The familiar shape of the car registers as that of a Dart. However, the Alexander Brothers decided to drastically alter the vessel’s profile and truncate the greenhouse. Additionally, they installed a Dodge Charger grille with horizontal bars, swapping out the production pair of small stacked headlights for a single square Cibie. Mid-grille, circular parking lights can be found.
The distinct look is maintained with shaved doors, Ansen slotted rims, and Goodyear tyres. The modernised rear styling appears to be moulded from the Charger model. Foregoing the small stacked production style tail lights are elongated ones. A black bumblebee stripe wraps around the hind quarters. Giving a Charger ambience to the interior are bucket seats replacing the Dart’s original bench-styled seats. Meanwhile, the 4-speed Hurst shifter offers a classic touch appropriate for a Hemi Dart.
No matter if you regard this seldom-seen concept car as an aspirant Charger or not, the uniqueness of this specimen emits Mopar vibes as soon as Lou starts the motor. You have the opportunity to view this unusual example of Mopar heirloom at Klairmont Kollections Automotive Museum.
