The 1966 Plymouth Belvedere II has long represented the pure, no-nonsense side of Mopar performance history. Simple lines, a straightforward interior, and a power-to-weight balance that made it a favorite among weekend racers in the late ’60s. But every so often, one of these cars is taken far beyond what Plymouth ever imagined. That’s exactly the case with this stunning Belvedere II now listed on BringATrailer.com.
Originally sold new by Melrose Motors in Oakland, California, this hardtop coupe spent most of its life with its first owner before undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment in 2014. During that process, its factory 361 cubic-inch V8 was removed in favor of a far more formidable package — a Stanton Racing Engines 7.0-liter (426 cubic-inch) Gen3 HEMI® stroker V8. With dyno results showing a stout 529 horsepower and 534 lb-ft of torque sent to the rear wheels, this Belvedere carries significantly more performance capability than its original engineers ever intended.
Supporting that modern muscle is an impressive lineup of chassis and drivetrain upgrades. The Gen3 HEMI is paired with a Tremec TKX 5-speed manual transmission, delivering crisp shifting and better cruising manners than the car’s original 4-speed. Out back, a Currie Ford 9-inch rear end fitted with a Strange limited-slip differential ensures consistent traction when that torque comes online.
The suspension has likewise been modernized to enhance stability and road manners. A Reilly MotorSports AlterKtion K-member with power rack-and-pinion steering replaces the factory torsion-bar setup, while a matching Reilly Street-Lynx rear suspension and Viking adjustable coilovers at all four corners give the Belvedere improved agility. Braking performance is dramatically upgraded thanks to Wilwood power-assisted disc brakes featuring six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers clamping drilled and slotted rotors.
From the outside, the Belvedere remains faithful to its original appearance — but with refinements. It was fully stripped and repainted in its correct Dark Green Poly (GG1) exterior color, with body seams meticulously welded and smoothed during the restoration. Chrome bumpers, bright side trim, a fender-mounted antenna, and dual exhaust outlets maintain a factory-authentic look, while Hella headlights and 17-inch American Racing Special Edition wheels wrapped in Continental ExtremeContact tires introduce a modern edge.
The interior blends vintage style with subtle additions for comfort and monitoring. Both bench seats have been reupholstered in black vinyl and cloth. Amenities include Vintage Air climate control, an Alpine CD stereo with aftermarket speakers, and a leather-wrapped Lecarra steering wheel. A Hurst shifter commands the TKX transmission, while a series of AutoMeter instruments supplement the original gauges — including a centrally mounted tachometer for improved driver awareness.
The current five-digit odometer shows approximately 3,000 miles, with about 400 miles added by the seller since the car was acquired in 2024. While the total chassis mileage is unknown, the car’s exceptional presentation, supporting documentation, and mechanical upgrades indicate it has been well cared for since its transformation.
Documented provenance accompanies the sale, including copies of the original 1965 paperwork and window sticker, the car’s Certicard, refurbishment photos, and service records. A clean California title further supports its quality and collector appeal.
For enthusiasts seeking a classic Mopar with show-quality presentation and modern performance you can confidently enjoy, this 1966 Plymouth Belvedere II offers the best of both eras — unmistakable 1960s character backed by 21st-century HEMI muscle. This upgraded and beautifully restored 1966 Plymouth Belvedere II is now live on BringATrailer.com, with bidding scheduled to conclude on Wednesday, December 10th at 3:55 p.m. EDT.
Custom Gen3 426 HEMI-Powered 1966 Plymouth Belvedere II:
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