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1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 For Sale: A Muscle Car Icon

The 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 is a highly sought-after muscle car, a legend whispered about in hushed tones amongst enthusiasts. If you’re searching for a “1968 Dodge Dart Gts 440 For Sale,” you’ve come to the right place. We’ll dive deep into this iconic vehicle, exploring its history, performance, and what to look for when buying one.

The ’68 Dart GTS 440 wasn’t just another car; it was a statement. Dodge took the relatively unassuming Dart and injected it with a potent dose of Mopar magic. The result? A compact muscle car that could embarrass much larger and more expensive machines. Its combination of relatively lightweight construction and a massive engine made it a force to be reckoned with on the street and the strip. Finding a well-preserved or meticulously restored example today is like discovering buried treasure. Let’s explore what makes the 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 so special.

The Heart of a Beast: The 440 Magnum V8

The 440 Magnum V8 is the defining characteristic of the 1968 Dart GTS 440. This wasn’t just a powerful engine; it was a torque monster. With 375 horsepower and a stump-pulling 440 lb-ft of torque, the 440 transformed the Dart into a true muscle car contender. This engine could propel the Dart from 0 to 60 mph in the mid-6-second range, a blistering pace for the era.

What made the 440 Magnum so special? It was a combination of robust construction, a high-performance camshaft, and a four-barrel carburetor that ensured a plentiful supply of fuel and air. This combination created an engine that not only delivered impressive power figures but also offered a unique and exhilarating driving experience.

1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 Magnum V8 Engine Detail1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 Magnum V8 Engine Detail

Identifying a True 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440

Finding a genuine 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 requires careful research. Not every Dart with a 440 badge is the real deal. Here are some key things to look for:

  • VIN Decoder: The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is your best friend. It contains crucial information about the car’s original specifications, including the engine.
  • Fender Tag: The fender tag provides additional details about the car’s factory options and paint codes.
  • Broadcast Sheet: If you’re lucky enough to find a car with its original broadcast sheet, you’ve hit the jackpot. This document details everything about the car as it left the factory.
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Authenticating a 1968 Dart GTS 440 is crucial to ensure you’re getting what you pay for. The rarity and desirability of these cars make them prime targets for counterfeiting.

1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 VIN and Fender Tag Verification1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 VIN and Fender Tag Verification

Beyond the Engine: The GTS Package

The GTS package wasn’t just about the engine. It included a host of performance and styling upgrades that set the Dart GTS apart from its lesser siblings. These included:

  • Heavy-duty suspension: The GTS received upgraded suspension components to handle the increased power and improve handling.
  • Performance tires: Wider tires provided improved grip and handling.
  • Dual exhaust: The dual exhaust system not only enhanced the car’s sound but also improved engine performance.
  • Styling cues: Unique badging, stripes, and interior appointments differentiated the GTS from the standard Dart.

What did these upgrades mean for the driver? A muscle car that could not only accelerate fiercely but also handle corners with confidence.

“The ’68 Dart GTS 440 was a game-changer,” says Richard Palmer, a renowned Mopar historian. “It proved that you didn’t need a big, heavy car to deliver exhilarating performance.”

Owning a Piece of History: The 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 Today

Owning a 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 is more than just owning a car; it’s owning a piece of automotive history. These cars are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Values can vary widely depending on the car’s condition, originality, and provenance.

Restored 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 in Classic RedRestored 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 in Classic Red

What should you expect to pay for a 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440? Prices can range from $50,000 for a project car to well over $100,000 for a concours-quality example.

“These cars are an investment,” adds Palmer. “Not just a financial investment, but an investment in driving enjoyment and automotive history.”

The Thrill of the Hunt: Finding Your 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440

Finding a 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 for sale requires patience and persistence. These cars don’t come up for sale often, and when they do, they tend to sell quickly.

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Here are some resources to help you in your search:

  • Online classifieds: Websites like Craigslist and eBay can be good starting points, but be wary of scams and misrepresented cars.
  • Specialized forums and websites: Mopar-specific forums and websites are excellent resources for connecting with sellers and learning more about these cars.
  • Classic car auctions: Auctions can be a good place to find rare and desirable cars, but be prepared to pay a premium.

The search for a 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 can be a challenging but rewarding experience.

1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 Displayed at a Car Show1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 Displayed at a Car Show

Conclusion

The 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 is a true muscle car icon. Its combination of powerful performance, compact size, and distinctive styling makes it a highly desirable classic. If you’re in the market for a “1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 for sale,” be prepared for a rewarding search and the thrill of owning a piece of automotive history.

FAQ

  1. What is the average price of a 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440? Prices vary greatly depending on condition, ranging from $50,000 to over $100,000.

  2. How can I verify the authenticity of a 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440? Check the VIN, fender tag, and broadcast sheet for matching information.

  3. What makes the 440 Magnum engine so special? Its combination of robust construction, high-performance camshaft, and four-barrel carburetor delivers impressive power and torque.

  4. What are the key features of the GTS package? Heavy-duty suspension, performance tires, dual exhaust, and unique styling cues.

  5. Where can I find a 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440 for sale? Online classifieds, specialized forums, and classic car auctions are good places to start.

  6. What are some common issues to look for when buying a 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440? Rust, mechanical wear and tear, and modifications that deviate from the original specifications.

  7. What is the fuel economy of a 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440? Expect fuel economy to be low, typical of muscle cars of this era.

  8. Are parts readily available for a 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440? Many parts are available through aftermarket suppliers and Mopar specialists.

  9. What is the value of a fully restored 1968 Dodge Dart GTS 440? A fully restored example in excellent condition can command top dollar, often exceeding $100,000.

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