A 1965 Plymouth Satellite convertible that spent a lot of time in a barn is certain it has what it takes to get back on the road and is looking to impress potential buyers with a sturdy body and an uncommon engine setup.
For the 1965 model year, Plymouth built 23,341 Satellite hardtop coupes. Only 1,860 convertibles were produced, making them far rarer than the coupe. The 2-door hardtop cost $2,612, but the convertible cost $2,827, making it more expensive.
I couldn’t find production numbers for each engine configuration, but the owner of this convertible claims their project car is one of only 330 units that rolled off the assembly lines with a 361 V8 engine under the hood.
Starting with lethargic six-cylinders for those searching for a shopping companion and concluding with enormous big-blocks for those consumers specifically seeking performance, the Plymouth engine lineup for the 1965 model year offered a little bit for everyone.
With 230 horsepower, the 361 V8 was about in the middle. For reference, the renowned 426 had 365 horsepower for this model year, compared to the 170 six-cylinder’s 101.
Claims their convertible could be even rarer, as only 10 to 15 percent of the cars left the factory with an air conditioning unit.
The vehicle was recently discovered in a barn, though we’re not getting additional information in this regard, and it’s quite a shame. Based on the photos, it’s safe to assume the car has been sitting for at least one decade, so should expect typical rust on the floors and in the trunk. The owner admits the convertible needs new floor pans, but they’re included in the sale, so the buyer only needs to install them.
The body is otherwise solid, but an in-person inspection should help determine more information, especially as the photos don’t reveal too many specifics. The close-ups reveal only general condition details, and we can’t even see the interior.
The 361 V8 engine behind the hood is as enigmatic as they come because I have no idea if it is still running or at the very least manually turns over.
The Satellite convertible comes with a partner, which is wonderful news. According to the owner, they also include a 1964 Fury convertible for components, so chances are good that you’ll find whatever is lacking from the primary vehicle on the Fury.