1968 Dodge Charger Found in Garage Takes Its First Drive and Comes Back to Life

 The Chevelle’s timeless design and powerful performance have made it a symbol of automotive excellence. Among the pantheon of Chevelles, the 1967 SS396 holds a special place as one of the most sought-after variants, with the rare RPO L78 option.

This article delves into the captivating story of a recently rediscovered L78 Chevelle and its journey from neglect to restoration, captivating enthusiasts and cementing its place as a holy grail for first-generation Chevelle lovers.

In the summer of 1967, amidst the hustle and bustle of the Atlanta, GA assembly plant, a remarkable Chevelle rolled off the production line. This particular specimen, assembled during the fourth week of June, was destined to find its first home at Tarr Chevrolet in Jefferson City, TN. It was one of a mere 612 Chevelles equipped with the coveted RPO L78 option. Boasting a Muncie M21 transmission, 3.55 rear axle, tinted windshield, and deluxe seat belts, this SS396 was a formidable presence on the road.

For several decades, this exceptional Chevelle remained hidden from the world’s gaze. It was only two or three years ago that the car reemerged, revealing its status as an unrestored, all-original survivor. Unfortunately, the passage of time had taken its toll, leaving the vehicle with flat tires and an interior infested by rodents. However, despite these challenges, the Chevelle underwent a refreshing transformation and was ultimately resurrected to reclaim its rightful place on the open road.

While the 1970 SS454 LS6 is widely regarded as the pinnacle of Chevelle performance, the 1967 SS396 L78 stands tall as a rare and remarkable classic. Equipped with a 454-cubic-inch (7.4-liter) big-block V8 engine, the LS6 variant boasted an astonishing output of 450 horsepower and 500 pound-feet (678 Nm) of torque. These numbers made it a force to be reckoned with, surpassing even the vaunted HEMI-powered Mopars of its time. Furthermore, with only 4,475 LS6-equipped Chevelles and El Caminos produced, finding an untouched, unmolested example has become increasingly challenging as the years have passed.

Remarkably, the gleaming paint adorning the Chevelle’s exterior is a testament to its endurance, having defied the passage of time for over five decades. Notably, the engine, transmission, and rear end are all original and match the car’s production numbers, further enhancing its value and desirability.

Despite its appearance not meeting the conventional standards of beauty, this L78 survivor has captured the hearts of enthusiasts, including renowned Chevelle expert Nichols. In his own words, this Chevelle is the greatest L78 survivor he has encountered to date, solidifying its status as one of the most desirable Chevelles ever built. With its relatively low mileage of only 68,000 miles (109,435 km) and a powerful yet refined L78 V8 engine, this Marina Blue coupe truly embodies the spirit of a bygone era.

Watch the full story below:

Witness the Magnificence of the 1968 Shelby Mustang GT350 Barn Find

 With only 7,104 units built from 1965 to 1969 (out of 2.2 million), the first-generation Shelby GT350 is one of the rarest Mustangs out there. But even so, many GT350s are still locked away in barns waiting to be restored and put back on the road.

The 1968 GT350 Convertible you see here was one of those cars. I say "was" because it was sold to a gentleman who will restore it shortly after the video below was shot. But this beefed-up classic, still an all-original gem, spent a whopping 40 years in a barn.

How is it possible for a fine muscle car like this to be forgotten in storage since the 1980s? Well, apparently the owner also had a 1968 Shebly GT500KR Convertible in yellow. He preferred the more powerful "King of the Road" Mustang so the GT350 ended up sitting in the back of the garage.

When the owner passed away, his daughter decided to let the GT500KR go and keep the red GT350. The car remained untouched from the early 1980s until 2021, when it was moved to a different barn. But surprisingly enough, the muscle car is in fantastic condition for a classic that hasn't been driven in 40 years.

Yes, it does have a bit of patina here and there, but it's rust-free and 100% percent complete. Not only that, but it still has all of its numbers-matching components, including the high-performance V8 engine under the hood.

In 1968, Shelby replaced the more familiar 289-cubic-inch unit with a 302-cubic-inch V8 with an aluminum Cobra intake manifold and Holley 600 carburetor, and that's exactly what this Shelby has.

On top of that, the red paint looks like it will shine again with a good polishing, while the white top is in surprisingly good condition. This GT350 is also a low-mileage classic at only 24,000 miles on the odometer.

The convertible layout also makes it rarer than the average 1968 Shelby. Ford built 1,664 GT350s that year, but only 404 were convertibles. And if we narrow it down to colors and options, this Shelby is even rarer. Probably one of fewer than 100 built like this.

But the even better news is that the gentleman who bought it plans to get it running again and preserve the original paint and interior. And that's the greatest thing it can happen to a barn-found survivor. Until that happens, see it sitting pretty in a barn in the video below.

1967 Chevelle SS396 L78, a Rare Find, Unearthed After 55 Years in Tennessee's Mountainous Region

 The Chevelle’s timeless design and powerful performance have made it a symbol of automotive excellence. Among the pantheon of Chevelles, the 1967 SS396 holds a special place as one of the most sought-after variants, with the rare RPO L78 option.

This article delves into the captivating story of a recently rediscovered L78 Chevelle and its journey from neglect to restoration, captivating enthusiasts and cementing its place as a holy grail for first-generation Chevelle lovers.

In the summer of 1967, amidst the hustle and bustle of the Atlanta, GA assembly plant, a remarkable Chevelle rolled off the production line. This particular specimen, assembled during the fourth week of June, was destined to find its first home at Tarr Chevrolet in Jefferson City, TN. It was one of a mere 612 Chevelles equipped with the coveted RPO L78 option. Boasting a Muncie M21 transmission, 3.55 rear axle, tinted windshield, and deluxe seat belts, this SS396 was a formidable presence on the road.

For several decades, this exceptional Chevelle remained hidden from the world’s gaze. It was only two or three years ago that the car reemerged, revealing its status as an unrestored, all-original survivor. Unfortunately, the passage of time had taken its toll, leaving the vehicle with flat tires and an interior infested by rodents. However, despite these challenges, the Chevelle underwent a refreshing transformation and was ultimately resurrected to reclaim its rightful place on the open road.

While the 1970 SS454 LS6 is widely regarded as the pinnacle of Chevelle performance, the 1967 SS396 L78 stands tall as a rare and remarkable classic. Equipped with a 454-cubic-inch (7.4-liter) big-block V8 engine, the LS6 variant boasted an astonishing output of 450 horsepower and 500 pound-feet (678 Nm) of torque. These numbers made it a force to be reckoned with, surpassing even the vaunted HEMI-powered Mopars of its time. Furthermore, with only 4,475 LS6-equipped Chevelles and El Caminos produced, finding an untouched, unmolested example has become increasingly challenging as the years have passed.

Remarkably, the gleaming paint adorning the Chevelle’s exterior is a testament to its endurance, having defied the passage of time for over five decades. Notably, the engine, transmission, and rear end are all original and match the car’s production numbers, further enhancing its value and desirability.

Despite its appearance not meeting the conventional standards of beauty, this L78 survivor has captured the hearts of enthusiasts, including renowned Chevelle expert Nichols. In his own words, this Chevelle is the greatest L78 survivor he has encountered to date, solidifying its status as one of the most desirable Chevelles ever built. With its relatively low mileage of only 68,000 miles (109,435 km) and a powerful yet refined L78 V8 engine, this Marina Blue coupe truly embodies the spirit of a bygone era.

Watch the full story below:

First Drive In 28 Years! 1968 Dodge Charger Garage Find Comes Back To Life

 Why are there still numerous classic cars found in junkyards and barns in 2023? Well, many of them were abandoned due to obsolescence, while others were stored away when their owners could no longer drive them. However, some remained hidden away simply because their owners never found the time to address minor incidents or resolve drivetrain issues.

In the world of classic cars, hidden treasures are often waiting to be discovered. Such is the case with this remarkable 1968 Dodge Charger, a forgotten gem that was tucked away in a garage for nearly three decades. With its powerful presence and nostalgic allure, this Charger has finally emerged from its slumber, thanks to the determination of its late owner’s wife and the expertise of the YouTube channel “Dead Dodge Garage.” Let’s dive into the captivating story of how this once rear-ended beauty is making a remarkable comeback.

Parked in a garage since a fateful rear-end collision in 1994, this 1968 Dodge Charger was confined to a life of stillness, collecting dust and memories. Despite the relatively minor damage sustained, the owner’s busy life prevented him from restoring the car to its former glory. Tragically, the owner passed away, leaving his wife with the decision to find a new custodian who would fulfill her husband’s dream of revitalizing the Charger.

Determined to honor her late husband’s passion, the wife resolved to seek a worthy successor for the Charger. Through the power of online communities, she connected with “Dead Dodge Garage” on YouTube. Recognizing the potential of this storied muscle car, they embarked on a mission to breathe new life into the dormant Charger, preparing it for the open road once again.

Resplendent in its original metallic blue finish, the 1968 Charger presents itself with an undeniable allure. Though time has taken its toll, the exterior damage is limited to the rear fascia, a testament to the car’s resilience. The interior, unfortunately, bears the marks of prolonged storage, exhibiting signs of mold and an unpleasant odor. However, these challenges are not insurmountable and can be overcome through professional cleaning and restoration.

Exciting news awaits beneath the Charger’s hood—the original, numbers-matching 318-cubic-inch (5.2-liter) V8 engine still resides within. While it may not possess the legendary status of the 383- and 440-cubic-inch (6.3- and 7.2-liter) powerhouses, the 318 V8 remains a respectable performer, delivering 230 horsepower and 340 pound-feet (461 Nm) of torque. Compared to the base 225-cubic-inch (3.7-liter) inline-six’s meager 145 horsepower, the 318 V8 is undoubtedly a more enticing option.

Remarkably, despite sitting dormant for 28 years, the V8 engine did not succumb to the passage of time. With a little coaxing, it roared back to life, billowing smoke as it reclaimed its purpose. Though not without some signs of wear, the engine displays commendable smoothness and power. It possesses enough vigor to propel the Charger for a short spin in the backyard, even showcasing its ability to spin the rear wheels in a thrilling burnout.

With its timeless design and solid foundation, the 1968 Charger holds immense potential for a full restoration. Once it receives the long-overdue cleaning it deserves, its true beauty will shine through. For now, enthusiasts can witness the Charger’s triumphant revival through the captivating video shared by “Dead Dodge Garage.”

Convertible Oldsmobile 98 Starfire from 1955

 

Completely restored from the ground up, this Oldsmobile 98 Starfire convertible is a gorgeous auto equipped with many factory options. The car is powered by a 324ci Rocket V8 dual-exhaust engine with a 4-barrel carburetor that is completely overhauled and mated to a 4-speed Hydramatic transmission. The optional equipment includes factory padded dash, parking brake light, tinted EZ Eye glass, Wonder Bar radio, and power windows, seat, antenna, steering and brakes. The interior features new, original pattern material and the convertible top also has new material. This beautiful convertible has been kept in a climate-controlled environment. From the John Staluppi Cars of Dreams Collection.

The 1971 Yenko Deuce Nova – Stunning V8 Sound Coming From a Custom Dual Exhaust

 The 1971 Yenko Deuce Nova was a high-performance version of the Chevrolet Nova that was built by Yenko Chevrolet, a dealership in Pennsylvania. It was named the “Deuce” because it was based on the second-generation Nova, which was produced from 1968 to 1974.

The Yenko Deuce Nova was powered by a 450 horsepower, 450 lb-ft of torque 427 cubic inch V8 engine, which made it one of the most powerful cars of its time. It also featured a number of performance upgrades, such as a heavy-duty suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, and a 4-speed manual transmission.

In addition to its performance capabilities, the Yenko Deuce Nova was also known for its distinctive appearance. It featured a blacked-out grille, Yenko stripes and badges, and a rear spoiler, which helped it stand out from other Novas on the road.

This recreation of the classic Yenko Deuce Nova is truly impressive, with its sleek black finish and attention to detail. It is a muscle car that can not only impress at local car shows, but also perform with power and agility on the streets. Upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that every aspect of this vehicle has been expertly crafted to produce a truly unique and eye-catching car.

This 1971 Chevy Nova boasts a body that is straight as an arrow, with gleaming new chrome and glass mounted on wheels that are true to the original model. The black paint is of concours quality and is enhanced by Yenko decals, while the cowl hood adds an aggressive touch that is characteristic of classic American muscle cars. Overall, this vehicle exudes style and attention to detail.

Under the hood, a well-tuned 350 cubic inch V8 with LT1 valve covers and a dual snorkel air cleaner is paired with an overdrive automatic transmission.

The engine produces a satisfying roar through a custom dual exhaust system. Overall, this vehicle offers a blend of classic style and modern performance.Youtube/HotRodDirtys

Freeing the 1964 Chevrolet Impala from Barn Confinement: Elevating Its Stature to New Heights

 A 1964 Impala that has returned after a long sleep in storage is ready for a new life because that’s precisely what such a great classic deserves in the first place.

Posted on eBay by seller woodrow2006, this 1964 Impala isn’t by any means a rust bucket, and if anything, it still seems to be a very solid candidate for a restoration.

Historically speaking, the 1964 Impala didn’t introduce too many changes in a lineup that was already preparing for glory. Launched in 1958 as the top version of the Bel Air, Chevrolet’s Impala became an overnight hit, with the yearly sales rapidly going through the roof in the first part of the ‘60s.

In 1964, it was already Chevy’s best-selling car, while a year later, it became the first nameplate in the U.S. after WWII to sell more than 1 million units in just 12 months.

This is the reason many collectors are drooling after a classic Impala, as owning such a gem is like owning a little part of automotive history.

The 4-door example we have here is essentially a project that requires a full restoration, with some parts exhibiting wear and tear that can no longer be fixed. As it turns out, the car spent a long time in a barn, though it was taken outside occasionally to survive in the condition we can all see today.

There’s the typical rust, so be ready for some serious patches, and it’s almost complete, though the “almost” part is the one that should raise more questions. Just make sure you go check it out in person before committing to a purchase.

A 1964 Chevy Impala in tip-top shape is worth a small fortune, and if done right, this could be the case with this model as well. The bidding is underway right now, with the top $1,200 still unable to trigger the reserve.