Mopar Muscle Car, 1966 Dodge Charger 426 Hemi

When Pontiac introduced the GTO into the American Muscle Car era in 1964, GM was quick to establish itself in the Muscle Car market. Buick followed with the Gran Sport, and Oldsmobile with the 442. Dodge had cars that could compete on the street and strip, they did not have a performance “image” Muscle Car of their own. Even with Coronet’s performance engines and styling image it was considered “conservative” by most standards.

In 1966 the Dodge Charger was born. The introduction of Dodge’s Mopar muscle car contribution coincided with the new street version of the 426 Hemi, giving Charger a performance image as well as a performance engine.

Three engines were available in 1966; the 318cid – 2bbl, 383cid – 4bbl, and the street model of 426 Hemi – 4bbl.

The Charger’s “electric shaver grille” using fully rotating headlights gave the grille a one piece look even when they were open.

Dodge introduced the Charger to NASCAR in 1966 with hope that the fastback would be a winner on the high bank tracks. The Charger proved to have extensive rear end lift in the corners making it slippery on the faster tracks, causing an airplane wing effect. Dodge installed a small lip spoiler on the trunk improving traction. The 1966 Charger became the first US production car to come with a spoiler.

The Dodge Charger; driven by David Pearson, prepared by Cotton-Owen won the NASCAR Grand National Championship in 1966