The Dart debuted as a full-size car, but was reassigned to midsize duty in 1962. After only a year on the market as a midsize car, it was downsized again in 1963, joining the still-emerging compact car market.
Dodge refreshed the compact Dart for the 1967 model year, which saw a sportier-looking version hit showrooms. This version was the first to be available with a big-block V8 engine.
The fourth-generation Dart was the most popular iteration of the model, and sold well enough that Dodge kept it on the assembly line until 1976. While not as popular as the Plymouth Valiant, the Dart sold more than a million units before Dodge consigned it to the history books.
It’s been nearly 50 years since the fourth-generation Dart was discontinued, and the compact is a pretty common classic that you can buy for cheap. Sure, there are a few exceptions, starting with the 1968 HEMI Dart LO23 factory race car and the 1969 Dart 440 GTS, both of which were built in limited numbers. The 383-cubic-inch (6.3-liter) cars also get a lot of attention, but the slant-six and small-block V8 cars are pretty affordable.
Sadly, many Darts have been treated as disposable vehicles and now rot in landfills and barns. A few are occasionally salvaged, but the survival rate of fourth-generation Darts is quite low. The 1968 Dart 270 hardtop you see here is one of the lucky ones.
Found in storage, this Dart awaits a second chance in Great Bend, Kansas. At first glance, it is far from spectacular, but it is surprisingly solid for a classic that has been neglected for many years. The body is actually rust-free, save for a few spots on a rear quarter panel and trunk floor. It also appears complete as far as trim pieces go.
The interior doesn't look bad either. The only thing missing are the carpets, but whoever removed them saved the floors from rust. The dash and door panels are solid and should be brought back to life with proper detailing. The front seat shows significant damage, but that's to be expected in a classic that's over 50 years old in 2024.
Unfortunately, the Dart was not fortunate enough to retain its original engine and transmission. Both were likely removed before the car was put into storage. The rear end and driveshaft are still in place. The seller states that the Dart was a factory V8 car. In 1968, the Dart 270 was available with either the 273 cubic inch (4.5 liter) or 318 cubic inch (5.2 liter) V8 engines.
The former had 190 horsepower, while the latter made 230. There is no information on the transmission, but both engines were available with a three-speed automatic and a four-speed manual. The 318 was the more popular of the two, so I assume that is what this Dart received from the factory. The VIN will shed more light on the matter. It is unclear whether the 98,000 mile (157,716 km) reading on the odometer is authentic.
Finding a replacement shouldn't be a problem. The 318 V8 was pretty popular at the time, so the next owner will be able to get a period-correct mill without too much trouble. The seller suggests that this Dart is suitable for a HEMI clone, and I couldn't agree more. With only 80 built, HEMI Darts are rare and super expensive these days, fetching six figures that can reach $300,000. I'd also consider a one-of-a-kind 440 GTX (these were only produced in 1969).
If you’re looking for a 1968 Dart to work on, this hardtop is listed with no reserve starting at $6,800. Is it low enough to make it suitable for restoration? Let me know in the comments below.
