1963 Dodge 330 Lightweight with Original Numbers-Matching Max Wedge V8 Turns Heads!

Chrysler's iconic 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) HEMI V8 is widely celebrated, but before its dominance, there was another powerhouse under the hood of Mopar vehicles in the 1960s—the Max Wedge.

In 1951, Chrysler introduced hemispherical combustion chambers to its production cars, but it momentarily shelved the design in 1958. The HEMI resurgence occurred in 1964 with the arrival of the famous 426 V8, earning it the nickname "elephant engine." Initially developed for NASCAR, it later powered Plymouth Belvedere on racetracks and found its way into production cars for homologation.

Max Wedge's Drag Racing Legacy

Before the HEMI took center stage, the Max Wedge emerged during the drag race wars of the early 1960s. Debuted in 1962 as a 413-cubic-inch (6.8-liter) mill, it was a formidable force on the drag strip. The engine, based on the RB block, evolved to 426 cubic inches in 1963, delivering comparable power to the later HEMI.

The Max Wedge was exclusive to intermediate Mopars of the B-body variety, finding its place in models like the Dodge Dart, Polara, 330, and 440, as well as the Plymouth Fury, Savoy, and Belvedere. It played a pivotal role in Chrysler's dominance in drag racing during this era.

While not as popular as the HEMI Mopars, Max Wedge cars are notably rarer. Only a few hundred were built from 1962 through 1964. A prime example is the 1963 Dodge 330, one of just 34 made that year and the sole one in silver over red.

Racing Legacy of a One-of-One Gem

This unique 1963 Dodge 330, a street-legal drag racer, participated in local races and the 1963 NHRA Nationals in Indianapolis. Despite being sold in 1965, it continued racing in various classes until the 1970s. A recent restoration returned it to its 1963 specifications, retaining its factory lightweight components.

What sets this 330 apart is its rare survival with factory lightweight features intact. The aluminum hood, fenders, and bumper are original, as is the 425-horsepower Max Wedge engine and the 727 push-button automatic gearbox.

# FAQs

## How Many Max Wedge Cars Were Built?

Dodge and Plymouth produced only a few hundred Max Wedge cars each from 1962 through 1964.

## What Makes the 1963 Dodge 330 Unique?

The 1963 Dodge 330 is one of only 34 made that year, and it stands out as the sole example in silver over red.

##  Did the 330 Have a Racing History?

Yes, the 330 raced locally at Minnesota Dragway and participated in the 1963 NHRA Nationals in Indianapolis.

## How Original is the 1963 Dodge 330?

The car underwent a recent restoration, returning it to 1963 specifications, and it retains its factory lightweight components, including the aluminum hood, fenders, and bumper.

## What's the Significance of the Max Wedge Engine?

The Max Wedge engine, with its 425 horsepower, was a potent force in drag racing during the early 1960s and paved the way for the later HEMI.

Check Out the Sneaky Upgrade in the Engine of This 1969 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am!

Fashionably Late to the Pony Car Party

Introduced in 1967, the Pontiac Firebird joined the pony car market fashionably late, with the Ford Mustang and Plymouth Barracuda having already set the stage three years earlier. While the Chevrolet Camaro hit the scene in September 1966, the Firebird didn't roll off the production line until February 1967. Despite its tardiness, it went on to carve a niche as an enduring classic.

Setting itself apart from the Mustang and Barracuda, the Firebird didn't wait around for potent V8 engines. Right from the start, it offered powerful options, including an entry-level inline-six, a 326-cubic-inch small-block, and a robust 400-cubic-inch V8.

The Firebird's 400-cubic-inch V8, initially rated at 325 horsepower, received upgrades over the years, culminating in the 1969 Trans Am. This sportier variant featured enhanced suspension, steering, and distinctive body modifications, solidifying its popularity and continuous production until 2002.

The Evolution of a 1969 Trans Am Replica

The 1969 Trans Am, particularly its debut version, remains highly sought-after among collectors, with only 697 units produced. However, many present-day sightings are likely replicas, such as the one featured here.

This replica, despite its questionable authenticity, undergoes a unique transformation under the hood. The original engine makes way for a modern LS2 V8, a 6.0-liter powerhouse introduced in the 2005 Chevrolet Corvette, boasting 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.

In an intriguing twist, the owner adorns the replica with "428" and "Bobcat" badges, paying homage to Royal Pontiac fame. This references Pontiacs from a bygone era, stuffed with 428-cubic-inch V8s by the dealership, known as Bobcats, and deemed rare and desirable today.

Despite its identity crisis, this 1969 Firebird emerges as a captivating build, especially for restomod enthusiasts. While the additional stripes and "428 Bobcat" emblem might raise eyebrows, the allure of a 400-horsepower Pontiac remains undeniable, whether it's an original Trans Am or a modified Firebird. The car also stands out for its remarkable cleanliness inside and out.

 

 

# FAQs

## FAQ 1: Why was the Pontiac Firebird introduced later than its pony car counterparts?

The Firebird made its debut in 1967, arriving later than the Ford Mustang and Plymouth Barracuda, which had established the pony car segment three years earlier.

## FAQ 2: What set the Firebird apart in terms of engine options?

Unlike its counterparts, the Firebird offered powerful engine options from the beginning, including an inline-six, a 326-cubic-inch small-block, and a robust 400-cubic-inch V8.

## FAQ 3: Why is the 1969 Trans Am, especially its debut version, sought after among collectors?

The first-year 1969 Trans Am is highly coveted among collectors due to its rarity, with only 697 units produced.

## FAQ 4: What engine transformation does the featured replica undergo?

The replica swaps its original engine for a modern LS2 V8, a 6.0-liter powerhouse with 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, introduced in the 2005 Chevrolet Corvette.

## FAQ 5: What historical nods does the replica make with its "428" and "Bobcat" badges?

The owner pays homage to Royal Pontiac fame by adding "428" and "Bobcat" badges, referencing the dealership's practice of installing 428-cubic-inch V8s in Pontiacs of that era.

Vintage 1969 Plymouth HEMI Road Runner Unearthed After Years in Storage – Surprising Findings Beneath the Hood!

It's been half a century since the golden age of muscle cars began, and remnants of that era still emerge from forgotten corners. Among them is a 1969 Plymouth HEMI Road Runner, a relic from the past that's found new life.

Saved by Dale from "Old Skool Rides," this Mopar carries a bit of mystery in its history. Left idle for years, the details of where it rested remain unclear. However, judging by the well-preserved body panels, it's safe to assume it spent its downtime sheltered indoors.

As it stands, the Road Runner is a mere project car. The original paint has vanished, and some body panels have seen updates over the years. Despite a touch of rust on the rear fenders, the overall structure remains impressively straight. The interior is a shell, with missing chrome and components, but Dale assures that most parts are safely boxed up.

What about the powerhouse? Unfortunately, the original 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) V8 HEMI is absent, leaving a void under the hood. However, the original transmission remains. The specific type—manual or automatic—remains a mystery.

While it might seem disappointing that this HEMI Road Runner is currently a rolling shell, its rarity adds a layer of intrigue. In 1969, the Road Runner hit its peak with sales reaching 81,105 units. Yet, only a minuscule fraction featured the top-tier HEMI engine.

A mere 787 units boasted the NASCAR-spec powerplant, constituting just 1% of the total production. This particular Road Runner, however, is even more exclusive. As a post car, it's one of 356 coupes sold that year. If it's equipped with a four-speed, the count drops to 194 units, and with an automatic gearbox, it becomes one of just 162.

Despite its current state, this Road Runner is a true rarity in the muscle car realm. A full restoration is in its future, complete with a replacement HEMI engine. Dale's immediate plan, though, involves installing an engine, resurrecting the transmission, and making the car roadworthy for some initial enjoyment.

FAQs

What's the Production History of the 1969 Road Runner?

In 1969, the Road Runner achieved its highest sales with 81,105 units.

How Rare is the HEMI Model?

Of the 787 HEMI-equipped models, this post car variant is one of 356 coupes, further narrowed down to 194 units if it's a four-speed and 162 units with an automatic gearbox.

What's the Plan for the Missing Engine?

While the original HEMI engine is missing, the plan is to perform a complete restoration with a replacement HEMI engine in the future.

What's the Current Value Potential?

Despite the missing numbers-matching HEMI, the Road Runner holds significant value, with potential for a six-figure sum, especially if restored to Concours-winning standards.

1965 Pontiac GTO Packed with Racing Upgrades Unveiled After 15 Years under a Tarp!

Introduction to the GTO Legacy

The Pontiac GTO holds a special place in automotive history, often credited with igniting the muscle car craze in the United States. While debates persist about its status as the first muscle car, its significance as one of the coolest American classics remains undisputed.

As we fast forward to 2023, the high-performance Pontiac GTO is a notable presence, though not as prevalent as other cars from the golden era of muscle cars. Solid survivors are becoming increasingly rare, with restored examples commanding substantial prices. Yet, scattered across barns and junkyards, some GTOs patiently await a second chance.

Amidst the GTOs of varying conditions, a bright red 1965 version stands out. Unlike some, it hasn't succumbed to rust or the decay of time. However, it has been off the road since 2008, spending 15 years under a tarp on a trailer, shielded from the elements.

 Unveiling the Racing Legacy

While it may appear stock from a distance, this particular GTO bears the marks of a drag racer. Mickey Thompson rubber adorns all four corners, with skinnies in the front and fatties in the rear. The cabin tells a similar story — a modified dash, modern bucket seats replacing the original, and an unexpected presence of a roll cage.

Pop the trunk, and a race-spec fuel cell emerges; lift the front hood, revealing a mysterious engine. Although it resembles an authentic Pontiac mill, details about upgrades or stock components remain elusive. Indications point to a modified version of the original V8, possibly a 389-cubic-inch (6.4-liter) powerhouse.

With a single carburetor, this GTO was born with an entry-level mill, likely boasting more power during its racing days. Retired from public roads in 2008 after gracing the drag strip, its history is well-documented in trophy-laden photos found in the owner's house.

 Potential Revival and Restoration

Despite its 15-year hiatus, this GTO seems poised for revival with minimal effort. A unique drag racer, it retains the potential to be reverted to factory specs. Except for cutouts in the front wheel wells and a cut-off switch, the sheet metal remains remarkably intact.

For a visual walkthrough of this iconic Pontiac GTO and its racing legacy, check out the video below.

# FAQs

**Q1: Is the Pontiac GTO considered the first muscle car?**

A1: While debates persist, the GTO is widely recognized for catalyzing the muscle car craze, though it may not be the first.

**Q2: How common are high-performance GTOs in 2023?**

A2: GTOs from the golden era are not as prevalent as some other muscle cars, and finding solid survivors is increasingly challenging.

**Q3: What makes the featured 1965 GTO unique?**

A3: Despite its 15-year dormancy, this GTO retains its racing modifications, including drag racing equipment and a mysterious, potentially modified engine.

**Q4: Can the GTO be restored to factory specifications?**

A4: Yes, aside from specific modifications for racing, the GTO featured in the video has preserved its original sheet metal, making restoration to factory specs feasible.

Exclusive: Rare 1978 Chevy Corvette Hits Streets Again After Two Decades!

Introduced in 1968, the third-generation Chevrolet Corvette, also known as the C3, stands as the longest-running version of this iconic sports car. Its production spanned from 1968 to 1982, witnessing both the glory days of the muscle car era and the less favorable malaise era.

Despite a decline in performance after 1972, the Corvette's popularity surged towards the end of the 1970s. Notably, sales exceeded 40,000 units in 1976 and surpassed 50,000 in 1979, marking a significant milestone for the model. Moreover, the C3 played a pivotal role in commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Corvette nameplate in 1978.

In 1978, Chevrolet unveiled two special-edition models: the Indy 500 Pace Car and the Silver Anniversary Edition. The latter, conceived in line with Bill Mitchell's vision, featured a distinctive silver finish with a gray lower body and a pinstripe. This special edition marked a departure from the single-tone tradition since 1961. The package included aluminum wheels and dual sport mirrors, costing buyers an additional $399, with wheels and mirrors adding another $380 to the total.

The Silver Anniversary Edition struck a chord with Corvette enthusiasts, with 15,283 units sold—nearly a third of the total Corvette sales for that year. In contrast, the Indy 500 Pace Car edition, priced 46% higher than the base model, found homes in only 6,502 garages.

Fast forward to 2023, and the 25th Anniversary Edition remains a notable chapter in the Corvette's history. Although no longer rare, it continues to be a favored iteration of the 1978 model year. Unfortunately, many of these special Corvettes have fallen into disrepair due to neglect or abandonment by their owners.

One such Corvette, featured here, deviates significantly from its original Silver Anniversary specifications. Rescued by "Vice Grip Garage" after spending two decades off the road, this particular example underwent a drastic transformation. Refinished in a vibrant lime green, a departure from the original silver, it now stands as a one-of-a-kind Silver Anniversary edition.

Despite its altered appearance, the Corvette remained in relatively good shape, thanks to spending its dormant years under a protective tarp. While the lime green paint and reupholstered seats may deviate from the original allure of the 25th Anniversary model, the core integrity of the car remains intact. The original 350-cubic-inch (5.7-liter) V8 engine still resides under the hood, and with minimal effort, the team at "Vice Grip Garage" managed to bring it back to life.

Although not without challenges, including faulty lines and heating issues, the Corvette embarked on a 750-mile journey back to the garage. Despite the hurdles, it made it home safely, signaling that this Corvette will soon regain its status as a road-worthy classic.

## FAQs

### FAQ 1: How many Silver Anniversary Editions were sold in 1978?

In 1978, Chevrolet sold 15,283 units of the Silver Anniversary Edition Corvette, constituting almost one-third of the total Corvette sales for that year.

### FAQ 2: How does the lime green refinished Corvette differ from the original?

The lime green refinished Corvette deviates significantly from the original Silver Anniversary Edition specifications. While the flashy paint and reupholstered seats may alter its appearance, the core structure and the original V8 engine remain unchanged.

### FAQ 3: What challenges did "Vice Grip Garage" face in reviving the Corvette?

The Corvette faced challenges such as faulty lines and heating issues during its 750-mile journey back to the garage. Despite these issues, the team successfully brought the car back to road-worthy condition.

Bold Chevy Vega Dominates with 650 HP and Wheelie Bars, Yet Street-Legal!

Introduced in 1970 as Chevrolet's inaugural subcompact, the Vega aimed to replace the Corvair. Despite initial popularity with two million units sold by 1977, it faced controversy and recalls due to various issues, earning a reputation as an unreliable and unsafe car.

Legacy of Controversy

The Vega, like the Ford Pinto, suffered a negative legacy impacting its resale value. The high-performance Cosworth version failed to redeem its image, resulting in its classification as one of the least desirable classics from that era.

Most Vegas met an untimely end, either scrapped or succumbing to rust. Surviving examples are rare, with only 5% of the initial two million units estimated to remain. Many of these survivors are no longer road-worthy.

Despite its failure, encountering a running and driving Vega is a source of excitement for car enthusiasts. The featured black Vega, a product of Bones Fab, stands out as a unique restomod project, showcasing the potential for a bright future with the right modifications.

This Chevy Vega is a testament to transformation. Keeping only the original shell, Bones Fab replaced nearly every component, providing a custom chassis, a modern V8 engine, and enhanced safety features. Contrary to its drag-racing appearance, this Vega remains road-legal, embodying the restomod concept.

The Drag Racing Heritage

This particular Vega, under the same ownership since 1974, has a rich drag racing history. Rebuilt in 2016 to modern specifications, it boasts substantial upgrades, including fat rear tires, a parachute, a fuel cell, and a formidable 440-cubic-inch V8 engine.

The Mast Motorsports-built LSX-type engine generates a remarkable 650 horsepower on pump gas, aligning with modern muscle car performance. While the Vega awaits action due to its owner's illness, the anticipation for its return to the drag strip remains high.

[gallery columns="1" size="full" td_select_gallery_slide="slide" ids="6464,6465,6466,6467,6468,6469"]

Despite the Chevrolet Vega's controversial past and limited survival rate, the showcased custom project exemplifies the potential for classic cars to find new life through innovative modifications. This Vega serves as a reminder that even the most challenging automotive legacies can be reshaped into something thrilling and noteworthy.

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LvKqsQBKIys[/embed]

# FAQs

**Q1: What issues did the Chevrolet Vega face during its production years?**

A1: The Vega encountered problems such as defective axles, faulty valve-stem seals, and improper rustproofing, leading to three mass recalls and a tarnished reputation for reliability and safety.

**Q2: Why is the Vega considered one of the least desirable classics from its era?**

A2: Similar to the Ford Pinto, the Vega's negative legacy impacted its resale value, making it less appealing to collectors and enthusiasts.

**Q3: What is the survival rate of Chevrolet Vegas from the original production run?**

A3: The survival rate is estimated to be extremely low, with only 5% of the two million Vegas produced still in existence, and many of them are no longer road-worthy.

**Q4: What modifications were made to the showcased Bones Fab project?**

A4: Bones Fab transformed the Chevy Vega by retaining only the original shell and replacing nearly all other components, including a custom chassis, a modern V8 engine, and enhanced safety features, creating a road-legal restomod.

**Q5: Why has the featured Vega not been active on the drag strip recently?**

A5: The owner, who has held the car since 1974, is currently unable to drive due to illness. The hope is for a speedy recovery to witness the Vega's return to the drag strip.

 

Unique 1973 Dodge Challenger T/A: Uncommon and High-Performance Ride

A Brief Overview

Built from 1969 to 1974, the initial iteration of the Dodge Challenger made a fashionably late entrance to the muscle car scene. Despite its brief existence, this classic model left an indelible mark on automotive history.

Dodge showcased its prowess in 1970 and 1971 with the release of the coolest Challenger versions, prominently featuring the renowned R/T. This high-performance variant, distinguished by exclusive features and formidable big-block power, became an icon in its own right.

The R/T came with engine options that included the 383-cubic-inch V8 as standard, while the 440-cubic-inch was available as an option in both four- and six-barrel configurations. For those seeking even more power, a limited number of R/Ts were equipped with the mighty 426-cubic-inch HEMI V8.

In 1970, Dodge introduced the Challenger T/A, designed as a homologation special for the SCCA Trans Am series. Unlike its powerhouse sibling, the R/T, the T/A sported a smaller 340-cubic-inch engine and a track-ready demeanor. Despite a short-lived racing career, it spawned a limited-edition production model.

The T/A, produced for only one year, is a rare gem with just 2,399 examples manufactured. While a 1971 version was initially planned, Dodge canceled the project when the Challenger concluded its SCCA campaign, adding to the T/A's exclusivity.

The 1973 Challenger T/A Tribute

 

Fast forward to 2023, and the Challenger T/A has become a sought-after Mopar, commanding six-figure sums at auctions. Its rarity and premium price tag have led enthusiasts to create tribute cars, such as the green 1973 Challenger featured here.

Though not a true-blue T/A, this tribute car stands out with meticulous attention to detail. Based on a 1973 Challenger, it captures the essence of the original T/A with accurate goodies, paint, and period-correct parts.

The tribute Challenger boasts T/A-specific elements, including the unique scoop, side stripes, and a T/A badge on the rear spoiler. While it may not gain approval from the hardcore Challenger crowd, it's a unique build that pays homage to the iconic T/A.

Under the hood, this 1973 Challenger packs a punch. Originally equipped with a 340-cubic-inch engine, it has been stroked to 418 cubic inches, delivering nearly 500 horsepower. The enhancements make it a powerhouse rivaling even the mighty HEMI.

Adding to its allure, the Challenger sports a High-Impact color not available in 1973. The attention to detail extends to the "four-barrel" script, a nod to its tribute status, distinguishing it from the original "Six-Pack" script found on true T/As.

With a distinctive High-Impact color and enhanced performance, this Challenger T/A tribute is not just a visual delight but also a head-turner on the road. Experience the dramatic sound of its powerful engine in the video below.

 

# FAQs

## What is the Challenger T/A?
The Challenger T/A is a special version developed for the SCCA Trans Am series in 1970, featuring a smaller engine and track-ready components.

## How rare is the Challenger T/A?
Only 2,399 examples of the Challenger T/A were produced, making it a highly sought-after classic.

## Is the featured Challenger T/A an original?
No, the green 1973 Challenger showcased here is a tribute car, faithfully replicating the T/A with modern enhancements.

## What modifications were made to the tribute Challenger's engine?
The original 340-cubic-inch engine was stroked to 418 cubic inches, boosting its horsepower to nearly 500.

## How accurate is the tribute Challenger to the original T/A?
The tribute car meticulously replicates T/A-specific features, including the scoop, stripes, and badge, while incorporating modern performance upgrades.