1968 Dodge Dart: A Lean and Mean Machine
The 1968 Dodge Dart represented a significant evolution for Chrysler's compact offering, bridging the gap between affordability and performance. It was a year of subtle but impactful styling refinements and the introduction of a potent new engine option that would cement the Dart's reputation as a serious contender in the muscle car era.
Styling and Design: A Sharper Silhouette
While retaining the general proportions of its predecessor, the 1968 Dart received a refresh that made it appear sleeker and more aggressive. The most noticeable change was the introduction of a single, large rectangular headlight design on each side, replacing the quad headlights of previous years. This gave the front fascia a more focused and modern appearance.
The grille was also revised, featuring a horizontally split design with a prominent Dodge crest in the center. The overall lines of the car were sharpened, with a more pronounced character line running along the side. The rear saw updated taillights, often featuring a clean, horizontal arrangement.
Body styles continued to offer a versatile range:
- 2-Door Sedan: The most basic and affordable option.
- 2-Door Hardtop: A sportier coupe with a pillarless design.
- 4-Door Sedan: A practical choice for families.
- GTS (Gran Turismo Sport) Convertible: The highly desirable performance convertible, often associated with the iconic "Shaker" hood scoop.
Powertrain Options: From Efficient to Electrifying
The 1968 Dart offered a diverse range of engines to cater to various budgets and performance expectations.
- Slant-Six Engines:
- 225 cubic inch (3.7L) Slant-Six: The standard powerplant, known for its exceptional fuel efficiency and surprising smoothness. Available in single or two-barrel carburetor configurations, it provided adequate performance for everyday driving.
- V8 Engines:
- 318 cubic inch (5.2L) V8: A popular choice for those seeking more power than the Slant-Six, offering a good balance of performance and drivability. Typically equipped with a two-barrel carburetor.
- 340 cubic inch (5.6L) V8: This engine truly defined the performance image of the 1968 Dart. Developed specifically for Chrysler's compact performance cars, the 340 was a high-revving, potent motor. Available in both the GT and the coveted GTS models, it featured a three-barrel carburetor and was often paired with performance-oriented transmissions. It was a key component in making the Dart a legitimate street racer.
- 440 cubic inch (7.2L) V8 (Optional on GTS): For the ultimate in Mopar muscle, the massive 440 V8 was available as an option on the GTS models. This engine, often referred to as "Magnum," brought serious torque and straight-line acceleration, firmly placing the Dart in the muscle car territory.
Transmission options typically included:
- 3-speed manual
- 4-speed manual (often preferred with performance engines)
- 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic
Performance and Handling: The GTS and Beyond
The 1968 Dart's performance capabilities varied significantly depending on the chosen engine and trim level.
- Dart GT: Positioned as a sportier model, the GT often featured upgraded interior appointments and the availability of the 318 and 340 V8 engines.
- Dart GTS: This was the performance flagship. The GTS came standard with the 340 V8 and was available with the potent 440. Key GTS features included:
- Performance suspension: Upgraded springs and shock absorbers for improved handling.
- Front disc brakes: Essential for managing the increased performance.
- Performance exhaust system: Often a dual exhaust setup for a more aggressive sound.
- "Shaker" hood scoop (optional on GTS): A functional, engine-mounted scoop that vibrated with engine movement, a hallmark of Mopar muscle.
- Performance wheels and tires: Wider tires and distinct wheel designs further accentuated its sporting nature.
While not as refined in terms of handling as some of its competitors, the 1968 Dart, especially in its GTS guise, offered an exhilarating driving experience, particularly in a straight line. Its compact size and potent V8s made it a formidable opponent on the street.
Interior and Features: Practicality Meets Sportiness
The interior of the 1968 Dart was generally functional and straightforward, with variations depending on the trim level. Standard features included:
- Bench seats or bucket seats (available on sportier models)
- Basic dashboard instrumentation
- Optional radio, heater, and defroster
Higher trim levels, like the GT and GTS, offered more amenities and sporty touches:
- Bucket seats: Providing a more supportive driving position.
- Center console: Often available with bucket seats.
- Upgraded upholstery: More premium materials.
- Rallye instrument cluster: Offering additional gauges like a tachometer.
Legacy and Collectibility: A Mopar Icon
The 1968 Dodge Dart, particularly the GTS models equipped with the 340 or 440 engines, has achieved iconic status among Mopar enthusiasts and muscle car collectors. They represent a time when performance was accessible and a compact car could deliver incredible thrills. Their relatively low production numbers, especially for the V8-powered models, and their reputation for raw power make them highly sought-after vehicles today. The 1968 Dart stands as a testament to Dodge's ability to blend practicality with potent performance, creating a legend in the process.