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1971 Dodge Polara

The '71 Dodge Polara: a big, boxy cruiser! Think vintage cop shows and American muscle. Part of Dodge's successful lineup, it embodied 70s style with its long hood and roomy interior. While not as flashy as some muscle cars, its understated cool made it a common sight, leaving a lasting impression on American car culture.

1971 Dodge Polara: A Classic Gem with a Celebrity Twist

Ah, the 1971 Dodge Polara—talk about a ride that's more than just a set of wheels, right? This car isn't just a mode of transport; it's a story on wheels, a piece of vintage art that roams the streets. Let's peel back the layers and dive into what makes this classic machine a head-turner from its rich history to its star-studded fan club.

Photo of a 1971 Dodge Polara

1971 Dodge Polara Models:

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

How Much is Dodge Polara Worth?

Original MSRP :$3,165.00

Outstanding

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$17,300

Clean

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$11,500

Average

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$7,100*

Rough

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$3,400

1971 Dodge Polara Specs

Body Maker: Dodge
No. Of Doors: 4
Model Number: DE43
Length: 220.2 inches
Width: 79.2 inches
Height: 54.9 inches
Wheelbase: 121.5 inches
Type: Own, V8, OHV, Dual downdraft, Fully synchronized
Displacement: 317.58 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 3 29/32 & 3 5/16 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.8 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 230@4400
Horsepower Rated: 48.83
Torque: 320@2000
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Block Material: Cast Iron
Engine Number Location: Stamped on front of block just below left cylinder head.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Carter
Type:
4.75 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
10.5 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
3.08
Gear Ratios Second:
1.7
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
2.9
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.21 to 1
Front: Independent torsion bar
Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs
Service Type: Hydraulic, self-adjusting drums
Service Front Size: 11 inches
Service Rear Size: 11 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 11 inches
Type: Regular
Tire Size: L84 x 15
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 24 Gallons
Oil: 4 Quarts
Rear Differential: 4 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting DE43G1a100001
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
Light GunMetallical Metallic, Brite Blue Metallic, Dark Blue Metallic, Plum Crazy Metallic, Indigo Metallic, Bright Red, Burgandy Metallic, Medium Green Metallic, Dark Green Metallic, Moss Green Metallic, Green Go, Dark Bronze Metallic, Butterscotch, Turquoise Metallic, Tan Metallic, Dark Tan Metallic, Hemi-Orange, White, Brite White, Black, Citron Yella, Gold, Gold Metallic, Dark Gold Metallic, All colors may not be available in all models.
Hardtop: Opt
Torque Flite Automatic Transmission: Opt
440 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
Power Windows: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Power Seats: Opt
Radio: Opt
Speed Control Device: Opt
Front Disc Rear Drum Brakes: Opt

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History of the 1971 Dodge Polara

Before we get into who vouched for this beauty, let's roll back the years a bit. The Dodge Polara perks up in the automotive scene during 1960, sticking around until 1973. This particular model, the 1971 iteration, flashes the typical flair of the '70s with a bigger body and comfy interiors packed with family-friendly vibes. In the grand automotive timeline, this car was like a bridge between the brawny cars of yore and the sporty rides that would eventually take the stage.

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Engineering & Design: Dynamism on Wheels

Speaking of its build, the 1971 Dodge Polara really takes design and engineering up a notch. Imagine sliding into its spacious interior, stretching out without a hitch—this ride measures a voluminous 220 inches from bumper to bumper. With V8 engines under the hood, including the rather juicy 360 cubic inch option, it catered to the horsepower cravings of families back then.

Famous Figures Who Own the 1971 Dodge Polara

Now, who's been spotted with this beauty? It seems Tinseltown and more have seen their fair share of this baby. Let's dig into that star-studded list.

Robert Patrick: The Man of Steel… and Cars

Actor Robert Patrick, famously etched in our minds as the intense T1000 from Terminator 2: Judgment Day, found more than just cinematic thrill in the Polara. He's a Mopar-devotee through and through, and owning a Dodge Polara just vibes with his love for American muscle.

Henry Kissinger: Diplomat by Day, Car Buff at Heart

Then there's Henry Kissinger—the man holding history's hand as a Nobel Prize-winning diplomat. You'd think his preferences would lean more towards vintage cigars and chess, but no. He kept his well-preserved 1971 Dodge Polara under pristine care. With only 56,000 miles on the odometer, this car is more than just a collector's piece—it's a slice of history.

Fun Facts about the 1971 Dodge Polara

Did you know the Polara didn't just cruise into stardom with celebrities but also with filmmakers' love? It rocked up in The Gumball Rally, slipping into the shoes of a fake police car doing an illegal dash across the states—but more on its cinema appearances later!

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There you have it, folks—a whirlwind tour of the 1971 Dodge Polara featuring engineering prowess, a Hollywood twinkle, and real-world ownership that speaks volumes. Keep those wheels spinning and stories flowing!

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Explore Dodge Polara from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

The '71 Polara? Man, that's a real classic! You'll spot it easily with its long, low profile – kind of like a stretched-out, sleek sedan. Think of it as a land yacht, if you know what I mean. It had that signature Dodge grille, big and chrome-laden, plus those iconic tail lights that were, you know, pretty distinctive for their time. Depending on the trim level, you might find some fancy extras, like vinyl roofs or even bucket seats – pretty swanky for back then! But the body style itself, that's the main giveaway. It's unmistakably a '71 Polara. You really can't miss it, once you know what to look for.

Under the hood, you had quite a few choices, honestly. There were a bunch of different V8s available; they ranged in size from a relatively small (for the time) 318 cubic inch engine, all the way up to a massive 440. It was a real muscle car era, you see. Some even had the legendary 426 Hemi, though those are super rare. It's like choosing between a bicycle and a monster truck; there was a powerhouse for almost every preference. Keep in mind, though, that finding documentation on the specific engine of a used car can sometimes be a challenge, so be prepared to do a little detective work if you're serious about buying one.

Ah, the million-dollar question! The value of a '71 Polara varies wildly. A lot depends on the condition – think of it like this: a well-kept vintage wine is worth way more than a bottle that's been left in the sun. Rust is the enemy, folks! A fully restored, pristine example could fetch a pretty penny – maybe even more than you'd think. But a car that needs tons of work? Well, that's a different story. You really need to check online resources that specialize in classic car values, like Hagerty or NADA Guides, to get a realistic idea. You know, to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Like any older car, the '71 Polara has its quirks. Electrical gremlins are pretty common – you might think of it like an old computer with temperamental software. Brake systems can also be troublesome; that's something that you really have to pay attention to. And as time marches on, rust is going to be a concern, particularly in areas where they use a lot of salt on the roads in the winter. But hey, with proper maintenance and care, you can keep her purring like a kitten. Plus, that's half the fun of owning a classic, right?

Finding parts for a classic can be a journey, but it's a journey worth taking! You've got a few options. Online marketplaces like eBay are good places to start looking; you can find all sorts of stuff there. There are also specialized classic car parts suppliers who may carry the parts you need. And don't forget about local salvage yards – sometimes, you find hidden gems in unexpected places. It's a scavenger hunt, to be honest, but the treasure at the end of it is worth it, trust me!