The Dodge Dart is mostly known for the fourth-generation compact version built during the golden muscle car era, but the nameplate also spent a few years on the full-size and midsize markets in the early 1960s. Around for just one model year, the midsize variant is the rarest of them all, but that’s not the only thing it can brag about. It was the first Dodge to get the iconic Max Wedge engine.
An evolution of the RB unit that Chrysler had introduced in 1958, the Max Wedge powered a series of drag-ready Mopars from 1962 to 1964. It debuted as a 413-cubic-inch mill rated at up to 420 horsepower, but it was enlarged to a 426-cubic-inch unit in 1963. The latter delivered up to 425 horses, as much as the iconic 426 HEMI that followed.
While the Max Wedge-powered Plymouths were known as the Super Stocks, the Dodge versions were dubbed Ramchargers. And many of these cars are famous for their white liveries with candy apple red stripes over the roof and the rear deck.
And this brings me to the 1962 Dodge Dart you see here, which is the only Ramchargers wagon ever built. Yes, it’s not an original Ramcharger crafted by Chrysler engineers, but it’s a perfect tribute that looks as authentic as tributes get.
And it’s not just the Ramcharger conversion that makes it unique. Take a closer look and you’ll notice that this Dart is a two-door wagon. That’s right, Dodge built only four-door wagons in 1962, so this Ramcharger is a unique conversion. One that displays a fabulous fit and finish. I dare you to find the smallest hint that this wagon is not a factory two-door.
So is this cool tribute a proper Ramcharger under the hood? Well, it doesn’t have a Max Wedge V8, but there’s no need to feel disappointed. Because this Mopar was fitted with something even better in the form of a dual-quad 426 HEMI.
Horsepower? Well, the ad doesn’t say, but the engine is described as a “beast” that’s “tame and quiet enough to drive daily” but can be opened up with the electric exhaust cutouts for drag racing. The mill mates to a 727 TorqueFlite automatic and a 3.54 rear end. Fortunately, the seller provides a video that shows just how brutal it sounds with the exhaust fully open.
If you want a unique Ramchargers tribute and you’re not bothered by the lack of an authentic Max Wedge V8, this badass wagon is for sale as we speak. eBay seller “bluelineclassics” wants $84,900 for it, which is a bargain given the pristine look and the awesome HEMI, but he’s entertaining offers.