AUCTION: 1968 Dodge Charger 494 HEMI® Land Speed Racer

In the world of automotive enthusiasts, few cars capture the imagination quite like the iconic 1968 Dodge Charger. This particular Charger, however, carries a unique tale that adds to its allure. Acquired by the current owner in 2004, it underwent a remarkable transformation under the skilled hands of Shine Speedshop in Orange, California.

Initially intended to attempt a land-speed record for a television show that was never aired, this Charger boasts a host of modifications that make it a true one-of-a-kind. Now, it is being offered for sale through BringATrailer.com, accompanied by a photo binder documenting its build and a clean California title.

The Charger’s steel body was meticulously stripped down to bare metal and treated to a vibrant orange paint job, complemented by a striking black over-the-top stripe. Its aggressive appearance is further enhanced by a scooped hood, cable-actuated hideaway headlamps, front and rear window braces, wind strakes, and hood pins. Dual mirrors, chrome bumpers, and a quick-release fuel door add to the car’s attention-grabbing aesthetics. The rear of the Charger features a tail-panel-mounted battery cut-off switch, polished dual exhaust finishers, and Jimmy Shine’s signature adorning both sides of the roof.

Notably, competition class AA/CGC is indicated on the rear quarter windows, while the front vent windows bear labels from Dick Landy Industries Performance. The car still retains its door glass, and a recent license plate suggests it was registered for street use in California as recently as August 2023, adding an intriguing duality to its character.

This Charger sits on custom black 16-inch front and 18-inch rear steel wheels, accentuated by Moon discs and wrapped in Dunlop racing tires. The suspension setup incorporates Magnum Force components, Aldan American adjustable coilovers, boxed frame connectors, tubular control arms, ladder bars, and oversized front and rear sway bars. Remarkable stopping power is provided by four-wheel Wilwood disc brakes, further bolstered by the inclusion of a Deist 10-foot parachute for those high-speed moments.

Stepping into the Charger’s cabin reveals a purposeful racing-inspired interior. Jaz Products aluminum bucket seats, clad in black upholstery, firmly hold occupants in place, while a 12-point roll cage with removable door bars ensures safety during spirited driving. The interior also features an interior fire-suppression system, an Art Carr Performance Products shifter, a parachute pull handle, and Simpson five-point harnesses. Toggle switches for various vehicle functions offer a tactile and functional touch. Notably absent are a speedometer and an odometer, indicating that this Charger was built with pure performance in mind.

The heart of this Charger is a potent 494 cubic-inch HEMI® V8, originally sourced from the Keith Black estate and masterfully built by JMS Racing in El Monte, California. The engine, based on the legendary 426 cubic-inch HEMI, features a Scat stroker forged crankshaft, Keith Black aluminum cylinder heads, and dual Weber four-barrel carburetors. Other notable components include a Meziere Enterprises electric water pump, electronic ignition, magnesium valve covers, and TTi headers.

The powerplant churns out an impressive 510 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and a tire-smoking 566 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm, as evidenced by dynamometer results. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission, complemented by a Currie 9-inch rear axle equipped with a Strange Engineering third member, 3.00:1 gears, and 31-spline axles. A custom 3½-inch dual exhaust system, complete with MagnaFlow mufflers, ensures an intoxicating soundtrack.

With its eye-catching orange exterior, formidable HEMI V8, and an assortment of performance upgrades, this Charger is a testament to automotive / motorsport passion. The auction will end on Sunday, July 9th at 4:20 p.m. EST, giving a limited opportunity to seize the reins of this remarkable machine.

494 HEMI® 1968 Dodge Charger Image Gallery:

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