Needs Room: 1965 Dodge Polara 500 Convertible – SOLD!

February 2, 2021 Update – we confirmed the seller of this “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call Rudy directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

Many automakers shift the names of some of their car brands around often to the confusion of consumers as the brand names moved up- and down-market in both size and target market.  Through the 1960s, Dodge’s Polara endured such a fate.  This 1965 Dodge Polara 500 Convertible originally listed in October 2020 on Craigslist in Bourne, Massachusetts (Cape Cod) represents Dodge’s redesign of the brand at the time with an asking price of $25,000.  Researching the Collector Car Market Review Online Tool reveals the private seller has their Polara priced $3,600 higher than this guide’s #1 “Excellent” estimate of $21,400.  However, using the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool as a second data point confirms this private seller has his Polara priced between the #2 “Excellent” appraisal of $27,300 and the #3 “Good” estimate of $15,300.

Dodge introduced the Polara for 1960 as its top-of-the-line full-size car where it stayed through 1964.  Then for 1965, Chrysler moved the Polara back to Chrysler’s “C” full-size platform shared with other division models. Once again offered in a full range of bodies (sedans, hardtops, station wagons, etc.), the Polara replaced the 880 and remained a step below the Custom 880, and the new Monaco hardtop coupe was now Dodge’s top model. The previous mid-sized Dodges sold under the names Polara 500, Polara, 440, and 330 continued in production under the name Dodge Coronet, with their wheelbase shrinking to 117 inches.  Critics panned these heavy Polaras for their low fuel economy, with some configurations getting on 12 miles per gallon.

The Osborn Tramain® YouTube Channel Provides a 1965 Dodge Commerical highlighting the redesigned Polara and other models:

We like the look of convertibles featuring matching interior and exterior colors, and this Polara does not disappoint.  The bucket seats, factory air conditioning, and other options on this car belie the fact it was moved downmarket for 1965.  Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

“Rare C body convertible w/bucket seats, center console w/floor shift & factory a/c (not working).
383ci w/2brl, 727 auto on the floor. All matching numbers, very little has been changed.
73,000 original miles
This is a southern car. No rust.
Don’t want to sell but need the room.
Price is negotiable.“

Do you have a Dodge Polara story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!