The 1966 model year holds immense significance for Mopar enthusiasts worldwide. This was the first year the legendary 426 cubic inch Street Hemi was made available for general public consumption. The high-performance 1966 Dodge Hemi Coronet 440 was one of the debut models to receive this powerhouse engine option. This specific Hardtop is presented in a desirable color combination. It retains the essential 4-speed manual transmission.
The Debut of the Street Hemi
The 426 Hemi engine was initially created for NASCAR dominance. It was temporarily banned from competition for being too powerful in 1965. Chrysler needed to offer a street version for homologation requirements. Therefore, the Street Hemi was introduced to the Dodge and Plymouth intermediate car lines in 1966. This made the Coronet a street-legal racing machine. Few buyers selected the expensive Hemi option, making these cars instantly rare.
Performance and Drivetrain
The engine is officially rated at 425 horsepower. A significant detail is the car’s 4-speed manual gearbox. This combination of the Hemi engine and the manual transmission is very scarce. It is believed to be one of just 288 Hemi 4-speed Coronets built in 1966. The car also features desirable styled road wheels. They are correctly wrapped in performance redline tires.
Classic Mopar Aesthetics
The exterior of this Hardtop is finished in a vibrant, high-gloss Red paint. This color choice emphasizes the Coronet’s clean, aggressive lines and muscular profile. The styling cues are pure mid-sixties Mopar. The car’s condition is further enhanced by the presence of a Painless wiring system. This upgrade provides modern electrical reliability while maintaining a classic look.
Interior and Cockpit Features
The interior is trimmed in contrasting Black upholstery. This simple, functional cabin features a traditional bench seat. The absence of bucket seats emphasizes the car’s no-nonsense, drag-ready intent. The 4-speed manual shifter is floor mounted for quick gear changes. An odometer reading of 54,805 miles suggests this Hardtop has been preserved. The correct VIN confirms the car is a factory Hemi example.
Engine Specification and Raw Power
The 426 Hemi V-8 engine is the heart of this Mopar legend. It features the iconic hemispherical combustion chambers that give it immense power. The engine utilizes dual 4-barrel carburetors, delivering a conservative 425 horsepower. It produces a massive 490 lb-ft of torque. The compression ratio is 10.25:1, suitable for period premium pump gasoline. This robust engine and the 4-speed manual provide a truly visceral experience.
Summary of the Hemi Coronet
In summary, this 1966 Dodge Hemi Coronet 440 is a highly significant Mopar muscle car. It is a rare factory Hemi and 4-speed example from the first year of Street Hemi production. The striking Red paint and Black interior are complemented by essential upgrades like Painless wiring. This hardtop is an important piece of automotive history. It represents one of the most powerful and collectable combinations offered by Dodge.
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Source: mecum.com
