1965 Dodge Dart GT

Description

The Big Three all rolled out compacts in the early '60s, and Dodge's Dart GT was the standard bearer for the Mopar crowd. With a 273 cubic inch V8 that loves to rev, lightweight bodywork, and a capable suspension, this 1965 Dart GT is affordable fast fun that's also a little out of the ordinary.

The neat little Dart got all the same cool styling tricks that its big brothers received and looks like nothing else on the road, then or now. Obviously inspired by the jet age, the look is instantly identifiable as Mopar and it's obvious that they didn't skimp on design even though the Dart was built to be affordable. Code 8 Yellow is this car's original color and they did a pretty good job of matching the original hue when they repainted it a few years ago. Nice bodywork shows rather well with the light color, and the many interesting features that highlight the Dart are shown in crisp detail. Thanks to two-stage urethane paint, the shine is impressive and makes the car look a lot more expensive than it is. There's also plenty of chrome, which helps hide its economy car origins, including the ports just behind the front wheel, the stainless trim that highlights those "mini fins" atop the rear quarters, and a pair of bumpers that look great. The black vinyl half roof adds some contrast and is also in excellent condition.

As a real GT, bucket seats and a console are welcome upgrades. Very cool seat upholstery highlights a functional and attractive interior, and thanks to a fairly comprehensive facelift a few years ago, it remains in very good shape. Simple door panels are highlighted by bright trim that works well with the highly detailed instrument panel which has the look of a high-end clock from the '60s. A big round speedometer anchors the dashboard, with square auxiliary gauges just to the right and a tachometer discreetly tucked into the dash between the radio and ignition switch. The center console manages the shifter for the 3-speed automatic transmission and the original AM radio, complete with matching white faced dial, is still in the middle of the dash. Despite the "compact" categorization, there's a big trunk out back which is ideal for cruises and long-distance trips and includes a fitted mat as original.

The 273 cubic inch V8 is the car's original powerplant and makes all the right sounds when you turn the key. Don't let its size fool you, because taking weight out is the same as putting horsepower in, so this Dart is entertaining on the street. It's detailed with bright red engine enamel, a set of finned valve covers, and the original air cleaner up top. The engine's been warmed over a bit with a cam inside that gives it a somewhat racy idle, plus an Edelbrock carburetor and intake manifold to help it breathe a little better. Twin Flowmaster mufflers give it a burly tone that's in character with the GT's mission and there are plenty of recent service items on the chassis. Factory Rallye wheels fit the car just right and carry 215/70/14 white-letter radials that make it look sporty.

Surprisingly fast and very affordable, this entry-level muscle car offers a lot of fun with a rarity that'll get everyone talking. Call today!