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A Nod to Mr. Norm’s Legacy: This 1969 Dodge Dart Hardtop stands as a meticulously crafted tribute to the legendary M Code Darts, those rare factory-built big block A-bodies that shook the muscle car world. While this particular car carries M Code identifiers and tags taken from an original M Code vehicle, it has been fully restored to faithfully follow the specifications outlined in an accompanying build sheet. Power comes from a potent 440 cubic inch V8 engine built to stock 375 horsepower specifications, paired with a correct 727 TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic transmission. The M Code Darts were incredibly rare, with only 640 hardtops produced in 1969, and current estimates suggest only around 100 remain on the road today. This tribute car captures the essence of those elusive machines, even featuring highly sought-after factory exhaust manifolds, a unique big block torque box, and a rare big block A-body radiator. With only 500 miles since its 2021 restoration, and accompanied by its build sheet and a Dave Wise visual inspection report, this Dart Tribute offers a chance to own the spirit of a true Mopar legend.
Big Block Power in a Compact Package: Engine and Performance: This 1969 Dodge Dart M Code Tribute is powered by a formidable 440 cubic inch V8 engine, meticulously built to the original M Code specifications, producing approximately 375 horsepower. This big block Mopar engine delivers significant torque and impressive acceleration, transforming the compact A-body Dart into a serious performance machine. The power is channeled through a correct 727 TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic transmission, known for its robustness and reliable performance. The M Code Darts were specifically engineered for drag racing dominance, a direct result of Chicago dealer Norman “Mr. Norm” Kraus’s ingenuity in shoehorning big blocks into Darts. While power steering and power brakes were not factory options on the M Codes to save weight and maximize performance, the sheer grunt of the 440 V8 ensures an exhilarating driving experience. The inclusion of the factory exhaust manifolds, extremely rare and valuable components unique to these big block A-bodies, further underscores the commitment to replicating the M Code experience.
Tribute to Rarity and Ingenuity: The M Code story is a fascinating chapter in muscle car history. As detailed in Motor Trend, it began with Mr. Norm proving Chrysler wrong by installing a big block in a Dart, leading to the factory’s eventual production of the 440-powered Dart GTS in 1969. This tribute car honors that legacy, capturing the essence of a vehicle born from a desire for ultimate drag strip performance. The fact that only 640 M Code hardtops were ever built, with a tiny fraction surviving today, highlights the exclusivity that this tribute seeks to emulate. The presence of the unique big block torque box, a structural reinforcement specific to these high-performance A-bodies, and the rare big block radiator further contribute to the authenticity of this tribute.
Fully Restored to Specification: This 1969 Dodge Dart M Code Tribute has undergone a full restoration completed in 2021, with only 500 miles driven since. The restoration was undertaken with the aim of faithfully recreating the specifications of an original M Code Dart, utilizing the accompanying build sheet as a guide. The attention to detail in sourcing and installing correct components, including the highly desirable factory exhaust manifolds, demonstrates a commitment to accuracy. The inclusion of a visual inspection report from Dave Wise, a renowned Mopar expert, adds further credibility to the quality and correctness of the restoration.
Classic Mopar Styling: The 1969 Dodge Dart Hardtop boasts classic muscle car styling, and this tribute retains that iconic look. While the description notes a red exterior and black interior, consistent with many high-performance Mopars of the era, the focus remains on the mechanical and historical significance of the M Code. The presence of a factory vinyl top and factory tachometer are further nods to the original M Code equipment.
VIN and Provenance: The VIN LS23M9B348239 identifies this specific Dodge Dart Hardtop. While the M Code identifiers and tags are sourced from an original M Code car, the restoration was guided by a build sheet to accurately represent those rare vehicles. The included build sheet and Dave Wise visual inspection report provide valuable documentation and insight into the car’s build and restoration. The car’s origin is noted as potentially being from North Carolina.
Summary:
- Fully restored 1969 Dodge Dart Hardtop built as a tribute to the rare M Code.
- Car carries M Code identifiers and tags from an original M Code vehicle.
- Powered by a 440 cubic inch V8 engine built to stock 375 horsepower specifications.
- Equipped with a correct 727 TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic transmission.
- Features highly sought-after factory exhaust manifolds, a unique big block torque box, and a rare big block radiator.
- Fully restored in 2021 with only 500 miles since completion.
- Comes with the build sheet and a visual inspection report from Dave Wise.
- Represents the spirit of the ultra-rare factory big block A-body Darts.
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
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