Imagine the 1967 models were just introduced. The Mustang has been redesigned, and Ford was smart enough to stuff a 320-hosepower 390 in it. The Camaro also debuted and, a few months later, Chevrolet introduced a 396 available in both 325- and 375-horse flavors. Chrysler’s answer to these big-block pony cars was to offer a 383 for the Plymouth Barracuda Formula S and Dodge Dart GT. One of those cars, a 1967 Dodge Dart GTS, is our Pick of the Day. It is listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Solon, Ohio. (Click the link to view the listing)
If you’re confused how both the Dart GT and GTS are mentioned above, allow me to explain: In 1967, the Dart GT topped the Dart range and was available with a six or V8 and as a hardtop or convertible. The GT included bucket seat interior (split bench for the ragtop), rocker panel and wheel opening trim, beltline molding, and aluminum trunklid applique. Top engine was a 235-horsepower 273.
However, in April 1967, a 280-horsepower 383 was introduced. When that engine was ordered, the car became the Dart GTS, a submodel of the GT series. The same engine in the Coronet was rated at 325 horsepower, so why the difference? The 383 was such a tight fit that it required exhaust manifolds that were quite restrictive. In fact, power steering was not available for the 383-powered Dart GTS because there was no room. Must have been a delight to drive!
While the market was demanding bigger engines and more horsepower, the Dart GTS simply didn’t compare to solid-lifter big-block Camaros — at least in stock form. Through 1969, the Dart’s 383 was tweaked thanks to better cylinder heads and exhaust manifolds to the tune of 330 horsepower. Power steering was even available. Of course, the competition was tough, which was why Dodge upped the ante and offered a 375-horsepower 440.
Starting in 1968, the Dart GTS became an official model. Standard power was the all-new 340 small-block, with the 383 as an option. After 1969, the GTS was no more, superseded by the slightly down-market Dart Swinger 340 and, eventually, the Demon 340.
This restored 1967 Dodge Dart GTS featured the extra-cost Buffed Silver paint complemented by a black vinyl top and red interior. Front disc brakes, console, right-side mirror, and fast manual steering are some of the features ordered for this particular vehicle. “The previous owner [installed] a new fuel tank, fuel pump, points, water pump, hoses, idler arm, shocks, brakes, redline tires, and torque converter,” says the seller. “He also had the engine and transmission rebuilt, which the odometer reflects as 907 miles.”
Only 457 GTSs were built in 1967 (both hardtop and convertible combined), making it quite a rare piece. “With over 10 grand recently invested, this gem is definitely worthy of a spot in your collection,” adds the dealer. We can’t tell you how much it would take to get it in your garage — you’ll have to message the dealership — but finding a big-block Dart in a stellar color combo would take some effort.
To view this listing on ClassicCars.com, see Pick of the Day.
Source: www.classiccars.com