The 1972 Dodge Demon 340 Sunroof represents a fascinating and exceptionally rare niche within the Mopar muscle car hierarchy. Out of the 8,700 Demon 340 sport coupes manufactured for the 1972 model year, only approximately 95 units were equipped with the V3 soft folding sunroof. This specific vehicle is one of just six currently documented by the Mopar Sunroof Registry and holds the distinct honor of being the only known example produced with factory air conditioning. Following an extensive rotisserie refurbishment, this Demon stands as a pinnacle of preserved 1970s performance and unique factory options.
Aggressive FE5 Red Styling and Manual Folding Roof
The silhouette of this Demon is defined by its striking FE5 Red paint, applied during a meticulous multi-year refurbishment using DuPont two-stage products. Its visual character is dominated by a dual-scoop black hood, a matching rear deck-lid wing, and longitudinal white tape stripes that provide a sharp contrast. The centerpiece is the factory-installed V3 soft folding sunroof, a manual slide-back unit that extends beyond the B-pillar to offer an open-air driving experience. Other period-correct details include fender-mounted turn-signal monitors, chrome bumpers, and Rallye wheels in a staggered 14-inch front and 15-inch rear configuration.
Luxury White Vinyl Cabin with Center Console
Inside, the cabin has been completely retrimmed in white vinyl, creating a high-contrast environment against the black carpeting and woodgrain accents. The front bucket seats are separated by a center console that houses the shifter for the three-speed automatic transmission. This interior is unique due to its sunroof-specific dual dome lights, which replace the standard centered single unit to accommodate the folding roof mechanism. Modern safety is addressed via lap and shoulder belts, while the dashboard remains a classic focal point featuring the Tuff steering wheel and a 120-mph speedometer complemented by auxiliary engine monitors.
Rebuilt 340ci V8 and Heavy Duty Rallye Suspension
Mechanical prowess is provided by a replacement 340ci V8 engine, which was factory-rated at 240 hp (243 PS) and 290 lb-ft (393 Nm) for the 1972 model year. The engine features a Carter ThermoQuad four-barrel carburetor and delivers power through a rebuilt TorqueFlite 727 three-speed automatic transmission. Driving dynamics are sharpened by the factory Rallye suspension, which utilizes stiffer torsion bars, heavy-duty springs, and shocks for improved cornering stability. A Sure Grip limited-slip differential within the 8.75-inch rear end ensures that power is distributed effectively to the rear wheels during spirited acceleration.
| Technical Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 340ci V-8 w/ 4-Barrel Carburetor |
| Transmission | TorqueFlite 727 3-Speed Automatic |
| Rear End | 8.75-inch w/ Sure Grip LSD |
| Factory Sunroof Code | V3W (White Folding Sunroof) |
| Suspension | Rallye Package (Heavy Duty) |
| Brakes | Power Front Discs / Rear Drums |
Market Rarity and Registry Documentation
In the world of high-value Mopars, documentation and rarity are the primary drivers of market value. This 1972 Dodge Demon 340 Sunroof sits at the very top of its class, as it is documented as the only sunroof example built with factory air conditioning. While standard Demon 340s are highly collectible, the combination of the V3 roof and the H51 A/C code makes this a “one-of-one” specification in the eyes of many enthusiasts. This rarity has already been recognized by the automotive media, with the car receiving a full feature in Hemmings Muscle Machines.
Restoration Quality and Provenance
The value of this Demon is further bolstered by the quality of its rotisserie restoration, which took four years to complete. The sale includes an extensive album of photographs documenting the process, along with manufacturer literature and service records that verify its mechanical health. Since the engine and transmission rebuild, the car has traveled approximately 15,000 miles, while the new odometer shows just 450 miles since its installation. For the collector, the inclusion of the original build codes on the fender tag provides the necessary verification that this is a genuine factory-built sunroof car.
Verdict on a Mopar Unicorn
The 1972 Dodge Demon 340 Sunroof is a rare opportunity to own a muscle car that defies standard production trends. Its unique combination of a high-performance 340 V8, an open-top experience, and factory air conditioning creates a driving experience that is as comfortable as it is exhilarating. For the serious collector, this documented registry car represents a unique chapter in Dodge’s performance history that is unlikely to be found again in this condition.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
