1967
Dodge Coronet R/T: A No-Nonsense Muscle Car with a Racing Soul
"The
Dodge Coronet R/T isn’t just a car; it’s a bold statement, a roaring homage to
the unbridled spirit of American muscle."
When the 1967 Dodge Coronet R/T rolled off the assembly line, it did not just enter the market; it made an entrance. With its aggressive stance and powerful performance, the Coronet R/T quickly became a beloved choice for muscle car enthusiasts. The Coronet was first introduced in 1949 as a more luxurious offering from Dodge but evolved into the muscle car we recognize today in the mid-1960s, with the R/T (Road/Track) designation solidifying its racing pedigree.
The
1967 model year marked a pinnacle of performance and style for the Coronet R/T.
Under the hood, it offered an optional 426 HEMI engine, allowing it to roar
down the streets with an impressive 425 horsepower. This was a no-nonsense
muscle car, designed for those who appreciated raw power and unadulterated
speed. The R/T's design was complemented by a sporty interior, providing a
thrilling driving experience without the fluff—perfect for the racing
aficionado. It was said that “the
only thing better than the sound of a Dodge V8 is the sound of it leaving the
competition behind.”
One
of the lesser-known facts about the Coronet R/T is that Dodge introduced the
model during a time of fierce competition in the automotive industry, where
each manufacturer was striving to outdo the other in terms of speed and style.
In fact, 1967 was a landmark year for Dodge, with the Coronet R/T becoming one
of the best-selling muscle cars of its time, partly due to its appeal in both
street and drag racing.
Market
Performance and Historic Sales
The
success of the 1967 Dodge Coronet R/T was reflected in its sales figures. It
sold more than 38,000 units that year, driven by its affordability and
performance. The base price for a new R/T was around $3,000, making it accessible
for many enthusiasts.
Today,
however, a well-preserved 1967 Coronet R/T can fetch anywhere from $40,000 to
$100,000 at auction, depending on its condition and originality.
Pricing
Overview
|
Feature |
1967
Coronet R/T (Original Price) |
Current
Market Value (Well-preserved) |
|
Base Price |
$3,000 |
$40,000 - $100,000 |
Dodge
produced the Coronet R/T with a passion that resonated throughout the
automotive community. The lead designer, Carl Cameron, infused the car with a
sense of daring and aggression that matched its performance capabilities. The
available colors for the Coronet R/T were as bold as its performance, with
options like Plum Crazy, Go Mango, and Bright Blue Metallic. However, the most
iconic color that stands out in the minds of enthusiasts remains Redthe
quintessential muscle car hue.
Memorable
Moments and Events
The
Coronet R/T has been featured prominently in various racing events and pop
culture, solidifying its status as an icon. Notably, the car made appearances
in films and TV shows that celebrated the muscle car culture of the era,
drawing even more admiration from fans.
One
of the most talked-about moments was its impressive performance at the NHRA
drag races, where it competed fiercely against rival brands.
Competition
In
the spirit of camaraderie and friendly rivalry, Dodge embraced competition,
challenging brands like Chevrolet and Ford on the drag strip and on the
streets. As muscle cars gained popularity, the Coronet R/T was often regarded
as a fierce competitor, capable of leaving its rivals in the dust.
Engine
Specifications
|
Engine
Type |
Size |
Carburetor |
Horsepower |
Torque |
|
383 V8 |
6.3L (383) |
4-barrel |
335 HP |
425 lb.-ft |
|
426 HEMI |
7.0L (426) |
2 x 4-barrel |
425 HP |
490 lb.-ft |
|
440 V8 |
7.2L (440) |
4-barrel |
375 HP |
480 lb.-ft |
Performance
Statistics
|
Performance
Metric |
0
to 60 mph |
Quarter
Mile |
Engine |
Engine
Source |
|
383 V8 |
6.5 seconds |
14.5 seconds |
383 CID V8 |
Chrysler Corp. |
|
426 HEMI |
5.5 seconds |
13.4 seconds |
426 CID HEMI |
Chrysler Corp. |
|
440 V8 |
6.0 seconds |
14.0 seconds |
440 CID V8 |
Chrysler Corp. |
Conclusion
The
1967 Dodge Coronet R/T is not just a car: it is a celebration of a golden era
in automotive history. Its blend of style, performance, and raw power continues
to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether you are cruising down
the highway or tearing up the drag strip, the Coronet R/T serves as a testament
to American muscle—bold, unapologetic, and full of soul. As the saying goes, “It’s not just a car; it’s an
experience,” and
there is no denying that the 1967 Dodge Coronet R/T offers one unforgettable
ride.
A Legacy in
Production
|
Year |
Model |
Production
Volume |
|
1960 |
Dodge Coronet |
20,000 |
|
1961 |
Dodge Coronet |
25,000 |
|
1962 |
Dodge Coronet |
30,000 |
|
1963 |
Dodge Coronet |
35,000 |
|
1964 |
Dodge Coronet |
30,000 |
|
1965 |
Dodge Coronet |
32,000 |
|
1966 |
Dodge Coronet |
40,000 |
|
1967 |
Dodge Coronet R/T |
38,000 |
|
1968 |
Dodge Coronet |
25,000 |
|
1969 |
Dodge Coronet |
18,000 |
|
1970 |
Dodge Coronet |
15,000 |
With each generation, the Coronet solidified its legacy, and while many cars have come and gone, the essence of the Dodge Coronet R/T remains timeless. So, whether you are a collector or a casual enthusiast, this muscle car is bound to ignite your passion for the open road and racing history.