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1966 Dodge Coronet

The '66 Dodge Coronet: a cool muscle car! Think sleek lines, a bit of a tough-guy vibe, and solid performance. It was a popular choice, part of Dodge's muscle car heyday, appearing in movies and popular culture. Its distinctive long hood/short deck styling made it instantly recognizable. A true classic.

History of the 1966 Dodge Coronet

Back in 1966, Chrysler rolled out the Coronet, a car that swiftly became a staple in American automotive culture. The Coronet emerged at a time when the U.S. auto industry was grappling with shifting consumer tastes and heightened competition. This model wasn't just another vehicle from Chrysler; it was a statement — one that married power with style.

Design and Features

Imagine reclining in deep-pile carpeting while sitting on contour-comfort bucket seats. The 1966 Coronet offered such luxury on wheels. This wasn't just any vehicle, mind you. It came in several configurations, granting buyers the freedom of picking sedans or hardtops with padded dashboards for improved comfort.

Photo of a 1966 Dodge Coronet

1966 Dodge Coronet Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Dodge Coronet Worth?

Original MSRP :$2,551.00

Outstanding

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$28,600

Clean

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$19,100

Average

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$12,700*

Rough

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$7,500

1966 Dodge Coronet Specs

Body Maker: Dodge
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: BW2-H-23
Length: 203 inches
Width: 75.3 inches
Height: 53.1 inches
Wheelbase: 117 inches
Weight: 3,240lbs
Type: Own, V8, OHV, Dual downdraft, Unknown at time of publication
Displacement: 273 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 3 5/8 & 3 5/16 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.8 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 180@4200
Horsepower Rated: 27.7
Torque: 260@1600
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Mechanical
Block Material: Cast Iron
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Ball and Ball
Type:
6 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
10 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
3.02 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.76
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.45
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.23 to 1
Front: Independent torsion bar
Rear: Longitudinal leaf spring
Service Type: Duo-servo, self-adjusting on 4 wheels
Service Front Size: 10 inches
Service Rear Size: 10 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 10 inches
Type: Regular
Tire Size: 7.35 x 14
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 19 Gallons
Oil: 4 Quarts
Rear Differential: 4 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting WH23D6a100001
Total Digits:13
Digits 1-2:Series
Digits 3-4:Body style
Digits 5:Engine
Digits 6:Model year
Digits 7:Assembly plant
Digits 8-13:Production number
All colors may not be available in all models., Silver, Black, Light Blue, Medium Blue, Dark Blue, Light Green, Dark Green, Medium Turquoise, Dark Turquoise, Bright Red, Yellow, Cream, White, Beige, Bronze, Gold, Sandstone, Mauve, Maroon
Hardtop: Opt
Torque Flite Eight Automatic Transmission: Opt
383 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
361 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
426 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
318 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Radio: Opt
Front Disc Rear Drum Brakes: Opt

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Cultural Significance

If there's one thing that anchors the 1966 Dodge Coronet in the annals of pop culture, it's its cameo in the movie "A Serious Man" by the Coen Brothers. Picture this: A distinctive four-door Coronet seen in various pivotal scenes, and yes, that V8 engine wasn't just there for show. For its role in film and its embodiment of the 1960s spirit, the Coronet remains an authentic slice of Americana.

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Engine Performance and Racing Pedigree

Now, if you're one for thrilling speed and impressive records, the Coronet's got stories to tell. The R/T variant wasn't just a looker; it smashed speed records and held its ground in the NHRA, proving its mettle in racing circuits. The standard engine, a 180 bhp 273 cubic-inch V8, provided a foundation, but it was those 426 Hemi V8 options that set the racetrack on fire.

Popular Figures Who Own the 1966 Dodge Coronet

Owning a classic car is like holding a piece of history with your fingertips. The Coronet graced the garages of some pretty notable names. Let's talk about a few well-known enthusiasts who found a kindred spirit in this classic model.

William Greaves

In the world of film and civil rights, William Greaves stood out not just for his groundbreaking work, but also for his impeccable taste in classic autos. Known for his influential documentaries, Greaves was often seen behind the wheel of a beautifully maintained '66 Coronet. For him, this car was more than transport; it was a testament to craftsmanship and innovation.

Collectors and Enthusiasts

A classic car is a badge of honor among collectors. The Coronet, with its iconic design, attracts enthusiasts who view it not merely as a car, but as a valued artifact of history. Among these ranks are people who appreciate its role in America's automotive narrative during the 1960s — an era that celebrated the muscle car craze.

Photo of a 1966 Dodge Coronet

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Legacy

From milestone auctions where Coronet prices soared into six figures to its indelible marks left on cinema, the legacy of the 1966 Dodge Coronet endures. Not merely as a collector's item, but as an emblem of mid-20th century innovation and cultural influence.

In wrapping it up, the Dodge Coronet isn't just a car — it's an echo of American dreams, roaring with horsepower and wrapped in sleek design. Its journey through time, whether on a movie set or a racetrack, continues to captivate hearts young and old.

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Explore Dodge Coronet from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

The '66 Coronet? Man, it's a real head-turner! You'll spot its unique styling cues pretty quickly; the long hood, short deck, and that distinctive, almost aggressive front end are instantly recognizable. Think of it like a classic muscle car silhouette, you know? Plus, depending on the trim level (and there were a bunch!), you might see different grille designs, taillights, and wheel choices. It's like comparing apples and oranges sometimes; a base model looks different than a top-of-the-line R/T. But those defining characteristics – the overall shape and that stance – really set it apart. The side profile is what really does it for me; so sleek.

Oh boy, the engine choices! They ran the gamut, from pretty tame to downright ferocious. You could get anything from a relatively mild six-cylinder for everyday driving—perfect for cruising down main street—to a screaming 440 Magnum V8 if you were looking for some serious muscle. Seriously, the 440 Magnum? That's a beast! There were a few other V8 options in between, too; so, it really depended on what you were after. Think of it like ordering a pizza; you get to customize your power. Of course, performance specs varied greatly across the engine options, so it's worthwhile to do your homework if you’re looking for a particular horsepower rating.

You had a couple of choices on the transmission front. A three-speed manual was the standard, perfect if you like to feel connected to the car, you know? That's pretty common in classic cars of that era. But if you wanted more convenience, a three-speed TorqueFlite automatic was available – much easier on those stop-and-go city drives. Think of it as choosing between a standard and an automatic – it's all about personal preference. Both were perfectly capable of getting the job done, depending on what you needed. The automatics were pretty common, and frankly, they were pretty smooth for their time.

Finding a truly pristine, original '66 Coronet? It's not exactly easy. Like finding a needle in a haystack, honestly. Many have been modified, restored, or sadly, ended up as parts cars over the years. But that doesn't mean they're impossible to find. You'll have better luck looking at classic car shows, online marketplaces specializing in classic cars, and even some local auctions. Patience, persistence, and a little bit of luck will definitely be your friends. You just have to keep your eyes peeled.

These cars are getting up there in age, so yeah, some mechanical gremlins can pop up. Rust is a big one, especially in areas prone to harsh winters. Also, the electrical systems can sometimes be finicky; it's just part and parcel of owning an older vehicle. Plus, brake systems and suspension components are often in need of attention after all this time. It's almost always a good idea to have a thorough mechanical inspection done before you buy one, just to be on the safe side. It's like buying a used house; you want a good inspection before you commit. You'll save yourself a lot of headaches that way.