In the world of classic cars, few vehicles can command the attention and admiration that the 1960 Dodge Dart Phoenix D500 does. This automotive masterpiece, boasting a lineage of only 586 Phoenix D500s ever built, represents the pinnacle of 1960s American automobile engineering. With every available option, an impeccable original drivetrain, and pristine sheet metal, this Dodge Dart Phoenix D500 is a true testament to the golden age of American automotive craftsmanship.
Under the hood of this remarkable specimen lies a roaring 383 cubic inch V-8 engine, a powerhouse of its time. Equipped with the legendary D500 Ram Induction system and dual 4-barrel carburetors, this engine not only produces thrilling levels of power but also boasts the unmistakable sound that classic car enthusiasts cherish. The Torqueflite automatic transmission ensures a smooth and responsive ride, making this Phoenix D500 an absolute pleasure to drive.
Painted in a captivating shade of red and adorned with a matching red interior, this 1960 Dodge Dart Phoenix D500 exudes timeless elegance. But it's not just about aesthetics; this classic gem comes equipped with a host of modern conveniences for its era. Power windows and swivel seats add a touch of luxury, while the electric clock and power steering make driving a breeze. Power brakes provide reliable stopping power, enhancing both safety and confidence behind the wheel.
One unique feature of this Phoenix D500 is the foam-cushioned rear seat, which ensures that passengers ride in comfort. The front bumper guards, back-up lights, and door edge moldings not only enhance the vehicle's aesthetics but also showcase the attention to detail that went into its design.
Inside the cabin, you'll find an Astrophonic AM Radio complete with a rear seat speaker, promising an immersive audio experience reminiscent of the 1960s. Stone shields and deluxe wheel covers protect this beauty on the road while adding a touch of sophistication.
What sets this particular 1960 Dodge Dart Phoenix D500 apart is its impeccable documentation. It comes with a copy of the IBM Data Card and Chrysler production records, providing a comprehensive history of its journey from the factory to the present day. Additionally, the previous owner's fastidious care is evident in the several boxes of spare parts included, ensuring that this Phoenix D500 can be cherished for generations to come.
For collectors and enthusiasts, this 1960 Dodge Dart Phoenix D500 is a piece of automotive history. Not only is it a rare find among the limited production run of Phoenix D500s, but it also embodies the spirit and innovation of a bygone era in American automotive manufacturing. Documented in Darrell Davis's book 'The 1960 Dodge D500 Guide,' this classic vehicle stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of vintage automobiles. Whether you're a collector or simply an admirer of automotive craftsmanship, the 1960 Dodge Dart Phoenix D500 is a true treasure waiting to be discovered.
THE STORY
The 1960s opened with great promise. The Dodge Dart was a new model that year, based on a mid-sized 118-inch wheelbase unibody design adopted from Plymouth, and the Phoenix was the premium trim package for it. This special Phoenix was further equipped with the performance-oriented D500 package; indeed, this amazing motorcar features not only its original drivetrain and sheet-metal, but nearly every available option that could be added to this vehicle platform in 1960. Dodge created 586 Phoenix D500-optioned Darts in 1960, but few were as spectacular as this one. The car is equipped with the 383/330 HP V-8 engine with Chrysler’s special long-tube D500 ram induction, which featured dual 4-barrel carburetors mounted on sonically tuned cast manifolds that looped across each opposing valve cover. It is backed by the pushbutton-activated TorqueFlite automatic transmission. The car, featuring its Ghia-inspired finned-and-piped panels as executed by designer Virgil Exner, is painted red and augmented by front bumper guards, backup lights, door-edge moldings and dual side mirrors; lower-body stone shields and deluxe wheel covers complete the picture of Dodge luxury. Inside are red interior components, complete with rare power-swivel front seats, power windows, factory electric clock, foam-cushioned rear seat and an Astrophonic AM Radio with rear-seat speaker. Driving ease was accomplished with power steering and power brakes. Documented in Darrell Davis’ book, “The 1960 Dodge D500 Guide,” the car will include a copy of its IBM Data Card, Chrysler production records and several boxes of rare parts leftover from the restoration. Management issues atop Chrysler’s upper hierarchy rapidly deteriorated during this era, resulting in the disastrous styling revisions for 1961 and Exner’s forced exit; coupling the unique inaugural-year design with this example’s extensive optional equipment, the 1960 Phoenix D500 offered here is a reflection of the jet-age styling of the late 1950s and the cataclysms that brought about the legendary Chrysler products of the 1960s.
