This one is the real deal. It is a 1966 Dodge Charger Hemi 4-speed. This car represents both the first year for the Charger model and the first year for the legendary 426 Hemi in a street car. Combine this with a complete restoration from 2005-2006 and you have a great example of a very desirable Mopar.
Just how rare is this car? They only built 468 Hemi Chargers in 1966, with 257 of those being 4-speed cars. For comparison Chevrolet built almost 4,500 LS6 Chevelles! This one is a correct XP29H car and includes its original fender tag and a Chrysler production record showing a ship date of 3-17-66. The restoration started with a rust-free car showing 44,489 miles. As shown in the pictures, it was taken down to bare metal before receiving a high quality repaint in its correct Bright Red. The original undercoating was left intact. Tires were upgraded to redline P215/75R14 radials in place of the factory 7.75x14 bias plys.
As with many first-year street Hemis, the original block had been sacrificed to the engine gods long ago but was replaced with the correct 2468330-2 casting dated 10-10-66. It was rebuilt during restoration and produced a healthy 498 hp on the dyno. The rotating assembly was fully balanced, making the engine remarkably smooth (especially for a Hemi). The A-833 4-speed transmission makes the car a lot of fun to drive, while the 8.75â rear end with 3.55 gears keeps things reasonable on the highway. The car is also equipped with power steering.
The interior is one of the most unique features of the first year Charger. You have to start with the fold-down rear bucket seats and center armrest; it actually makes you want to get in a back seat. The front seats continue the sleek, futuristic theme. The instrument panel uses four dash pods for all the gauges. Everything works properly; indicators, lighting, heater/defroster, radio, parking brake, wipers, etc. Same with the headlight motors and position indicator.
The 1966 Charger has aged well and continues to draw lots of interest among collectors. And as a genuine Hemi 4-speed, this beautiful example is not only incredibly rare but is also a lot of fun to drive. Donât wait for prices to climb any higher!
