Dodge originally introduced the nameplate for the 1960 model year. It was created to replace the Coronet but was also slightly smaller than the average full-size vehicle of that time. This was part of Chrysler’s plan to replace Plymouths in the low-priced car segment for Dodge dealers after a divisional restructuring.
The Dart was positioned just below the Matador, which Dodge released in 1959 and discontinued after 1960. The Matador was only 3.5 inches longer than the Dart. The full-size lineup was completed by the Polara, which was also brand-new in 1960.
Similar to its larger and more expensive counterparts, the Dart offered a variety of body styles, including two-door and four-door sedans and hardtops, a convertible, and a station wagon. It underwent a redesign in 1961 and was downsized in 1962 to become an intermediate model. However, its time in the midsize market was short-lived as Dodge moved it into the compact segment in 1963.
Although it was a popular car with over 300,000 units produced, the full-size Dart was quickly forgotten. These cars have a very low survival rate, making the 1960-1961 Darts a rare sight today. I’m specifically referring to well-preserved or restored examples. The 1961 Dart Phoenix featured here is one of those cars.
If you’re wondering about the “Phoenix” badge, it was one of three trim levels offered by Dodge at the time. The Dart lineup included the entry-level Seneca, the mid-range Pioneer, and the premium Phoenix. The Phoenix came with an inline-six engine as standard, but it could also be equipped with 318- and 361-cubic-inch V8 engines. The 361 engine was available with two- or four-barrel carburetors.
In 1961, Dodge introduced the iconic 383-cubic-inch big-block engine to the Dart lineup, which is exactly what this Phoenix model has under the hood. Not only is it a top-of-the-line model with the highest-performing V8, but it is also a one-year rarity.
This is because even though the full-size Dart was sold for two model years, each car had noticeable differences in appearance. While the 1960 version resembled the 1959 Coronet, the 1961 variant featured a more modern design. Key highlights included a new front fascia with quad headlamps integrated into the grille and a sleek rear end with slanted fins. It’s a somewhat divisive look, but personally, I find it appealing.
Spotted at a local car show, this Dart Phoenix is immaculate both inside and out. It showcases a red-over-red color combination that epitomizes the early 1960s. There is no information available about its originality, but it certainly looks like it could win awards at classic car shows. See for yourself in the video below.