The 1969 Dodge Daytona is a muscle car icon, revered for its distinctive aerodynamic design and powerful performance. This particular Daytona, set to cross the block at Mecum Auctions Kissimmee 2025 on Friday, January 17th, is one of just three remaining examples finished in the factory-correct A4 Silver Metallic with a black tail stripe. A product of meticulous restoration and modern upgrades, it is not only a rare sight but a formidable machine on the road.
A Meticulous Restoration
This Dodge Daytona underwent a multi-year rotisserie restoration, performed by Troy Angelly & T/A Restorations of Eldorado, Illinois, with the final assembly completed by US-12 Speed & Custom in New Buffalo, Michigan, in 2019. Over $650,000 was invested in the restoration, ensuring that every detail of this classic muscle car is perfected.
During the restoration, this Daytona’s powertrain was significantly upgraded. Originally fitted with a 440 CI V-8, it now boasts a 542 CI Hemi V-8 engine from Best Machine Racing Engines in Farmington Hills, Michigan. This powerhouse was dyno-tested at 631 horsepower at 5,800 rpm, transforming the car into an aggressive track-ready machine.
Modern Upgrades for Maximum Performance
This 1969 Dodge Daytona isn’t just about preservation—it’s also about performance. The engine was built to racing specifications, featuring Diamond Hemi pistons, a Molnar stroker crank, and Johnson high-rev lifters. It’s mated to a 4-speed manual transmission that includes a Gear Vendors overdrive unit, enhancing its road performance. A Dana 60 Positraction rear end with 4.10 gears ensures the power is properly delivered.
Handling has been significantly improved with a Hotchkis suspension system lowering the car’s stance by two inches in the front and one inch in the rear, complemented by custom Bilstein gas shocks and Cal-Trac traction bars. A new fast-ratio steering box and 4-wheel SSBC disc brakes with ceramic pads provide sharper control and stopping power, while the 17-inch OEM Mopar mag wheel replicas wrapped in Nitto NT 555 G2 tires ensure optimal grip.
A Unique Heritage
One of the most fascinating aspects of this Dodge Daytona is its unique factory paint story. Of the 12 Daytonas originally finished in A4 Silver, all were accidentally painted with a slight hint of green, making them the only Chrysler cars to bear this one-of-a-kind hue. Along with the original fender tag and broadcast sheet, this Daytona stands as a true piece of Mopar history.
Interior Comfort Meets Classic Style
Inside, the Daytona features a newly upgraded Black interior with a Vintage Air system for added comfort. The updated console complements the manual transmission conversion, creating a perfect blend of classic styling and modern convenience.
Key Specifications:
- Engine: 542 CI Hemi V-8, 631 HP
- Transmission: 4-Speed Manual with Gear Vendors Overdrive
- Suspension: Hotchkis with 2-inch front and 1-inch rear lowering, Bilstein gas shocks
- Brakes: 4-wheel SSBC disc with ceramic pads
- Interior: New Black interior with Vintage Air
- Wheels: Custom-made 17-inch Mopar mag wheel replicas
- Tires: Nitto NT 555 G2 (285/40ZR17)
Summary:
This 1969 Dodge Daytona is more than just a collector’s dream—it’s a modernized beast ready to roar on the road or track. With only three remaining in this color and a powerful, upgraded 542 CI Hemi V-8, this rare Daytona offers an incredible blend of heritage, engineering, and performance. Whether for its $650,000 restoration or its unique paint history, this Daytona is set to command attention when it crosses the block in Kissimmee 2025.
Source: mecum.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
