The compact Dart didn’t have much power in its early days. It was designed with fuel efficiency in mind and came with a standard six-cylinder engine that produced 101 horsepower. There was also a larger engine option with a similar cylinder configuration that offered 145 horsepower.
Dodge also offered an optional V8 engine, but the 1964 model only had 180 horsepower. This increased to 235 horsepower in 1965. In 1967, the Dart underwent a redesign and received its first big-block V8 engine. The optional 383-cubic-inch unit debuted with 280 horsepower and reached 300 horsepower in 1968. The Dart reached its peak performance in 1969 with the limited-edition GTS model, which featured a 440-cubic-inch engine.
Unlike other Dodges of the time, the Dart never received the powerful 426-cubic-inch HEMI engine. There was a 1968 model equipped with this engine, but it was a factory dragster and not intended for street use. The most desirable variant of the Dart is considered to be the early fourth-generation model (1967-1972) in terms of design and performance. If you prefer the third-generation version (1963-1966) with its unique styling and lighter build, you’re limited to low-output engines unless you choose to swap in a big-block engine.
The 1966 two-door hardtop Dart featured in the video may look ordinary on the outside, but it has a surprise under the hood. It has a bigger engine than the 383 introduced in 1967, with a displacement of 400 cubic inches. This engine is similar to the one introduced by Chrysler in 1972 as a replacement for the 383. It was used in various Chrysler vehicles, including muscle cars like the Dodge Charger and Plymouth Road Runner. The engine was discontinued in 1979.
Although the 400 engine wasn’t as powerful as the 383, it became popular for custom builds due to its large bore size and short deck height. It’s possible that this Dart has more than 400 horsepower. Despite its potential power, the car maintains a stock appearance, with the exception of the blacked-out front grille, rear fascia trim, and wider tires. The wider rear wheels suggest that this Dart could be a strong performer at the drag strip.
While it may not be the most sleek or flashy build, this Dart demonstrates that a seemingly ordinary third-generation model can be transformed into a powerful muscle car without major modifications. Watch the video below to see it in action.