Restoration Ready: 1968 Dodge Dart GT Convertible – Sold?

by | Jul 2021 | Classifinds, Topless Thursday

August 11, 2021 Update – We just confirmed the listing for this Dodge Dart “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

Often the challenge with finding a suitable Mopar restoration project is finding an example that hasn’t been chopped up or modified into a street machine.  While far from perfect, this buck-seat-equipped, Slant-Six-powered 1968 Dodge Dart GT convertible originally listed in July 2021 on Craigslist in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania appears to have great bones that is in need of professional cosmetic restoration. Currently offered at $15,000, comparing that price against the Collector Car Market Review Online Tool confirms the private seller has their Dart GT priced between this guide’s #3 “Good” estimate of $10,950 and its #2 “Very Good” appraisal of $16,400.

The Dart and its sister model—the Plymouth Valiant—were substantially redesigned for the 1967 model year. In addition to new styling, the cars received revised steering systems, wider front track, and frame rail spacing, and redesigned K-members capable of accepting larger engines.  The 1967 redesign removed all traces of the older Virgil Exner styling that proved less popular by the early 1960s.  The newer body was trimmer and proved extremely popular, causing sales of the Dart to surpass compacts from Ford and GM.  The styling proved to be so popular the Dart kept this basic form with only minor facelifts until the end of A-body production in 1976 for North America.

As part of the redesign, Chrysler limited body styles to two- and four-door sedans, a two-door hardtop, and a convertible. The base 170 model was now badged simply as “Dart”. The 270 and GT versions carried on unchanged for the most part. In late 1967, the GTS model debuted but was built in limited quantities due to its lateness in the model year; the 1968 GTS would be, arguably, improved by fitting the new high-output 340 cu in (5.6 L) V8 as standard equipment.
 
Changes for 1968 were relatively subtle. The park and turn lights in the grille were moved slightly inboard and made round while side marker lights could now be found on every corner.   Additional safety features needed to comply with new federal standards included separate shoulder harnesses and a non-glare matte finish on the windshield wiper arms. Chrysler’s “Clean Air Package” emission control system became standard equipment on cars sold in all 50 states.

We love the potential for a nice restoration this Dart GT has and we pray the person who buys this resists the temptation to drop a V8 in it and restores it to its entry-level glory.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1968 Dodge Dart GT Convertable- 225 6 cyl Auto/power steering/bucket seats with console/ am radio/power top.
Extremely original car other than 1970’s body and paintwork. Purchased from original owner’s family 10 years ago. The vehicle has antique plates and is rarely driven. Items which have been replaced include: rebuilt brakes/master cylinder/u-joints when trans serviced/muffler/shocks/rebuilt carburetor/fuel tank and sending unit/alternator/voltage regulator/ belts and hoses/water pump/washer reservoir and pump/valve seals/fuel pump/14″ wheels and tires. The 13″ wheels and hubcaps are included. Dart needs a complete cosmetic restoration but is very solid underneath. I don’t know how many of these were made but my guess is not many with only a few remaining intact which are not cut up or turned into a clone of something or other. Don’t miss your chance. $15000“

Restore or Restomod: what would you do with this Dart GT?  Comment below and let us know!

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