The Black-on-Black 1967 Dodge Coronet R/T holds a special place in the hearts of muscle car enthusiasts. As one of the earliest R/T models ever built, it signifies the birth of a legendary trim level that would go on to grace high-performance Charger and Challenger models. Powered by the formidable 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) V8 engine, this Coronet R/T combines sleek aesthetics with exhilarating performance. Let’s delve into the history and unique features of this iconic vehicle.
The Dodge Coronet: A Resurrected Legacy
Originally introduced as a full-size car in 1949, the Dodge Coronet was discontinued in 1959. However, in 1965, the nameplate made a triumphant return, finding its place in Dodge’s intermediate lineup. Positioned below the Polara, the fifth-generation Coronet not only served as a foundation for the iconic Charger but also gave birth to another Mopar legend—the Super Bee in 1968. The Coronet’s significance cannot be overstated, as it spawned two of the hottest muscle cars during the golden era of American automotive history.
Unveiling the Coronet R/T: Performance at its Core
In a bold move, Dodge utilized the Coronet as a platform to introduce the high-performance R/T trim level. This badge, now synonymous with Charger and Challenger models, first made its mark on the company’s bread-and-butter intermediate—the Coronet.
The year 1967 witnessed the debut of the Coronet R/T, a full year before a similar package was available for the Charger and three years ahead of the birth of the Challenger. Exclusive to the two-door hardtop and convertible models, the R/T trim boasted the formidable 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) 440 V8 as standard, with the option of the mighty 426 HEMI V8. These powerhouses generated impressive horsepower ratings of 375 and 425, respectively.
A Rare Gem: Rarity and Elegance
While the Coronet enjoyed considerable popularity in 1967, with nearly 185,000 units sold, the higher-priced R/T package found favor with only 10,181 customers. Convertible models were particularly rare, accounting for just 628 of those sales. Consequently, a mere 9,553 two-door hardtops were adorned with the iconic R/T badge. While not extremely scarce, locating well-preserved examples of the 1967 Coronet R/T has become a challenging task. Thankfully, we have this exquisite black-on-black specimen to appreciate.
Unveiling the Sleeper: Beauty in Disguise
As an avid Mopar enthusiast, I must admit my inclination towards the vibrant High Impact colors that adorned late 1960s vehicles. However, this particular Coronet R/T, resplendent in black, exudes an aura of understated elegance and sleeper appeal.
Interestingly, this R/T had the same owner for most of its existence but spent a significant portion of its life in storage. As a consequence, rust became a persistent issue, necessitating a comprehensive restoration.
In 2012, the long-awaited restoration breathed new life into the Coronet R/T, preserving its captivating appearance for over a decade. The best part? The original V8 engine still resides under the hood. While not equipped with the coveted 426 HEMI, which was limited to a production run of only 283 units, the 440 RB V8 offers an exhilarating driving experience and a symphony of exhaust notes. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness its power and presence in the accompanying video below.
Conclusion
The Black-on-Black 1967 Dodge Coronet R/T stands as a testament to the rich heritage of American muscle cars. From its humble beginnings as an intermediate offering, the Coronet emerged as a catalyst for the iconic Charger and Challenger models. Boasting the legendary 440 V8 engine and a striking black-on-black aesthetic, this rare gem captures the essence of power and elegance. While preserving its originality, the Coronet R/T is a living embodiment of the golden era of muscle cars—a captivating piece of automotive history.