The 1963 Dodge Polara Custom represents a fascinating intersection of classic Mopar muscle and modern hot rod artistry. This specific car gained national fame through its construction on the TLC television series American Hot Rod. Legendary builder Boyd Coddington oversaw the project, ensuring every detail met his exacting standards. Finished in a deep, glossy black, the sedan exudes a menacing presence that few cars can match. It successfully blends the boxy charm of the early sixties with high-end performance components.
Engineering the Coddington Masterpiece
Beneath the expansive hood lies a monstrous 472 cubic inch Hemi V8 engine. This power plant utilizes a Mopar cross ram intake manifold for a distinct period-correct appearance. Dual Holley four-barrel carburetors sit atop the engine to feed the massive displacement. Magnum Force Race Car Fabrication handled the suspension duties to ensure the chassis could manage the power. Every component was chosen to improve the driving dynamics while maintaining a low, aggressive stance.
Custom Interior Artistry by Gabe
Inside the cabin, the 1963 Dodge Polara Custom features work by the renowned Gabe Lopez. The custom red leather interior provides a sharp, vibrant contrast to the dark exterior paint. A specialized dashboard houses unique UFC-themed telemetry for a one-of-a-kind look. Occupants sit in bespoke seats that offer far more support than the original factory benches. Even the trunk received full upholstery to match the high standards found throughout the rest of the vehicle.
Stopping Power and Modern Footwork
Performance on this scale requires serious hardware to keep the car under control at all times. This 1963 Dodge Polara Custom utilizes Baer four-wheel disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors. These brakes hide behind staggered 17 and 20-inch wheels designed by Boyd Coddington himself. The Currie nine-inch rear axle handles the massive torque output with ease during hard acceleration. Furthermore, the three-inch stainless steel exhaust creates a resonant tone that announces the Hemi’s arrival.
Hemi Performance and Drivetrain Specs
The mechanical heartbeat of this build produces a staggering 525 horsepower and 540 lb-ft of torque. An A727 TorqueFlite automatic transmission manages this output, shifted via a color-keyed B&M unit. Flow is optimized through mandrel-bent pipes and high-performance Magnaflow mufflers. The combination of dual carburetors and massive cubic inches ensures instant throttle response. This setup allows the heavy sedan to accelerate with the urgency of a modern sports car.
Summary of the Polara Build
This 1963 Dodge Polara Custom stands as a tribute to one of the most famous names in car culture. It offers the rare chance to own a vehicle with documented television provenance and professional pedigree. Every system has been upgraded to provide a modern experience without losing the classic Dodge identity. Whether on the show field or the open road, it commands immediate attention. This build remains a high-water mark for custom Mopar sedans across the globe.
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Source: mecum.com
