1973 Dodge Custom
The '73 Dodge Custom: a big, boxy cruiser embodying 70s style. Think comfy, land-yacht vibes. Not flashy, but solid and dependable, reflecting the era's tastes. Its simple, straight lines were a common sight, making it a true piece of Americana. A classic example of the era's automotive landscape.
Decode Classic VINs to Get Vehicle History Report and Build Sheet
History of the 1973 Dodge Polara
The birth of the Polara Custom Series DM came during a pivotal moment in American automotive history. With new regulations like the Clean Air Act pushing for reduced emissions, the '73 Polara had its work cut out. Japanese automakers, like Toyota and Nissan, were gaining traction with their compact vehicles. Meanwhile, the Polara managed to hold its own, admired for its classic style and spacious interior—a refuge of comfort in uncertain times.

1973 Dodge Custom Models:
Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.
How Much is Dodge Custom Worth?
Original MSRP :$3,849.00
Outstanding
Clean
Average
Rough
1973 Dodge Custom Specs
Interested in buying a classic car or selling one?
Access detailed history reports for classic vehicles from hundreds of manufacturers.
- Accident Records
- Theft Records
- Loan & Lien Information
- Auction Information
- Salvage Information and more

Design and Specifications of the Polara
When it comes to style, the Dodge Polara didn't skimp. Its commanding front grille and sculpted body lines turned heads wherever it went. Inside, the focus was on passenger comfort, offering plush seating with substantial legroom. For those eyeing performance, the Polara's engine lineup included a choice between the standard 318 cubic inch V8 or the powerhouse 440 cubic inch V8 Magnum. How's that for a bit of Americana?
Standard Features
The Polara came well-equipped, featuring electronic ignition and, believe it or not, two-speed wipers—an innovative touch for its day. Add in the plush interiors with options for cloth and vinyl, and you've got a recipe for classic luxury.
Feeling the need to check if these features match your classic ride? Try a to get all the goods on your vehicle's original specs.
Engine Options
Let's talk engines. The heart of the '73 Polara ranged from a solid 318 cubic inch V8 to a robust 440 V8 Magnum—genuine muscle with speed to match. With a top speed pushing 120 mph and a smooth ride courtesy of torsion bar suspension, this car didn't just perform; it impressed.
Learn more about a classic car: Get Build Sheet by VIN.
Access reproduced classic build sheets to learn more about your classic vehicle details.
- Standard Specifications
- Original Base Price
- Standard & Optional Equipment
- Exterior & Interior Colors
- VIN ID & Location description

Cultural Impact and Notable Owners
The Polara didn't just exist in a vacuum—it thrived amidst pop culture, rolling through numerous films and TV series that solidified its status. Fame attracts fame, right? Well, the car found fans in notable figures too—Bob Hope among the stars who favored its elegance. Rumor has it even The King, Elvis Presley, was smitten by this American beauty, although definitive proof might be just as mythical as Elvis sightings.
Interested in a legend of your own? You might want to check out the services to unlock histories that make your own classic car story sparkle.
Price Records and Valuation
In the realm of collectors and car enthusiasts, well-maintained 1973 Polaras fetch quite the price—between $10,000 and $30,000 depending on the model's condition and originality. It's clear that the memories of speed and style keep this classic rolling through auction halls and classic car meetups alike.
Famous Figures Who Own the Polara
While we can't get Elvis's signature on a title, we know Bob Hope wasn't the only one drawn to the Polara's charms. Its role in law enforcement as a trusty patrol car speaks volumes about its combination of power and reliability.
For those looking to wrap some nostalgia in steel and chrome, unravel more with a .
Fun Facts about the Polara
Did you know the ‘69 Polara hit a whopping 149.6 mph at Chrysler's Michigan test track? These records didn't just help sell cars; they paved roads to an impressive automotive legacy.
Does your Polara pack the right punch? A might just spill the beans on your model's hidden potentials.
Interested in Buying or Selling a Classic Car?
When pondering the purchase or sale of a classic vehicle, the importance of clarity can't be overstated. Consider obtaining a vehicle history report and a car build sheet. These documents can unveil key details such as:
Accident Records
Theft Records
Loan & Lien Information
Auction Information
Salvage Information and more
All these could be yours with the right tools—like perhaps a lookup.
Classic Car VIN Lookup App |Now available on both Android and iOS!
At Classic Decoder, we believe that developing a mobile app is a great way to extend our classic car data solution hub to as many users as possible across the globe. Our app is built with users and precision in mind. It holds the key to unlocking the history and details of any retro car at your fingertips. It also comes with fascinating and user-friendly features that make it stand out from other mobile apps designed for this purpose.
The Classic Decoder app lets you decode and lookup any classic VIN in a flash. Access accurate vehicle information and history, make an informed decision faster, and buy and trade in classic cars with confidence.

Download The Classic Decoder App now.
Some unique features include:
- Support all classic VIN lengths from 5 to 13 digits
- Support classic cars produced from 1910 – 1980
- Online Garage features – to add and manage your vehicles
- 24/7 Customer Support
- Easy onboarding for first-time users
Explore Dodge Custom from Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Well, the '73 Dodge Custom, it's a real head-turner, you know? Think big, boxy, and undeniably seventies. Key features? Let's see... the distinctive rectangular headlights are a dead giveaway; you can't miss those. Plus, the overall styling is pretty unique – kinda like a comfy, oversized armchair on wheels. You'll also find a pretty substantial grille, very much in keeping with the era's style – that's a key characteristic. And depending on the trim level, you might even get some extra goodies, like fancy hubcaps. It was a pretty popular model, so there's a nice selection out there.
Ah, the powerplants! The '73 Dodge Custom offered a range of engines, really catering to different needs. You could go for a smaller, more economical choice – if fuel efficiency was your thing – or you could really crank things up with a larger displacement V8, something really beefy, if you like a bit more muscle under the hood. Think of it like choosing between a compact sedan and a full-size pickup – both get you from A to B, but with quite a different vibe. It all really depended on what the buyer was looking for; folks had a range of options to choose from.
That's a good question! Compared to other cars of the era, like the Chevy Impala or Ford LTD, the '73 Dodge Custom was pretty similar – kind of a big, comfortable cruiser. They were all vying for a slice of that large-car market. You know, it's hard to say definitively whether it was better or worse; that's purely subjective. Ultimately, it came down to personal preference. It's a bit like choosing between different brands of ice cream – it's all a matter of taste.
Buying a classic is exciting, but there are always things to be mindful of. With a '73 Dodge Custom, common issues can include things like the electrical system – those old wires can get a bit temperamental, a common problem in cars from that era. The carburetor can also be a pain, sometimes needing some TLC. Then there’s the body; rust is a classic foe of old cars, especially in regions with harsh winters, so inspect it carefully. Overall, it's always advisable to get a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic specializing in classic cars. It is worth the investment, trust me!
Pricing a classic car is tricky, like trying to guess how many jellybeans are in a jar. The value really depends on things like condition, mileage, and how original it is – has it been restored or is it still largely original? A pristine, fully restored example might fetch a pretty penny, but a car needing some serious work will be significantly cheaper. Online resources and classic car valuation guides can provide some estimates, but it’s best to consult with classic car specialists or appraisal experts for a truly accurate valuation.
Finding parts for a classic car can be an adventure! You can try online retailers specializing in classic car parts, you can look at salvage yards, or you may find some local shops that deal in the vintage car market. Online forums and communities dedicated to Dodge cars – yep, those exist! – can be an amazing treasure trove of information and lead you towards the right parts suppliers. You could even find some fellow enthusiasts willing to share parts with you; it’s all about networking!