The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T, a name that echoes through the annals of automotive history, stands as a testament to the golden age of American muscle cars. This iconic machine, with its sleek lines and powerful engine, captured the hearts of enthusiasts and became a symbol of the era’s spirit of performance and rebellion.
The Charger’s evolution began in 1966, a departure from the previous generation’s two-door hardtop. The 1968 model, however, solidified its legacy. The introduction of the “R/T” (Road/Track) designation signaled a focus on performance, and the Charger R/T became synonymous with raw power and thrilling driving experiences.
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T: A Muscle Car Icon
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T, with its aggressive styling and powerful engine, stands as a defining moment in the muscle car era. It was a car that not only captured the spirit of the times but also helped shape the future of American automotive design.
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T, a muscle car icon, embodies the spirit of American automotive power and design. While the Charger was a statement of raw performance, Dodge’s history stretches back to the luxurious era of the 1940 Dodge Luxury Liner , a testament to craftsmanship and comfort.
This contrast highlights Dodge’s evolution, showcasing its ability to adapt to changing times and consumer desires, ultimately solidifying its place in automotive history.
The Dodge Charger, introduced in 1966, was a departure from the previous generation of Dodge sedans. It featured a fastback coupe body style that was both stylish and aerodynamic. While the initial models were well-received, it was the 1968 Charger R/T that truly cemented its place in automotive history.
The 1968 Charger R/T’s Distinctive Features
The 1968 Charger R/T was more than just a stylish car; it was a performance machine. It was distinguished by a number of features that set it apart from other models, including:
- A Powerful Engine:The R/T came standard with a 383 cubic inch V8 engine that produced 330 horsepower. This engine was more than capable of propelling the Charger to impressive speeds.
- A Sporty Suspension:The R/T featured a heavy-duty suspension that was designed to handle the car’s power and provide a more responsive driving experience.
- Distinctive Styling:The R/T featured a number of styling cues that set it apart from other Chargers, including a blacked-out grille, special badging, and a unique rear spoiler.
Design and Styling
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T is widely recognized for its distinctive and aggressive design, which solidified its place as a muscle car icon. This design, heavily influenced by the “coke bottle” styling trend of the late 1960s, gave the Charger a unique and instantly recognizable silhouette.
The “Coke Bottle” Styling
The “coke bottle” styling, characterized by a narrow waistline and flared fenders, was a popular design trend in the late 1960s. This design element was particularly prominent in the 1968 Charger R/T, contributing significantly to its muscular and aggressive appearance.
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T, a true muscle car icon, shared the same year with its more conservative sibling, the 1968 Dodge Polara. While the Polara offered a more refined and family-oriented approach, the Charger R/T captivated with its powerful engine, aggressive styling, and undeniable presence on the road.
Both models, though distinct in their appeal, represented the American automotive industry’s commitment to innovation and performance in the late 1960s.
The narrow waistline, accentuated by the car’s low roofline, created a visual impression of speed and agility, while the flared fenders emphasized the car’s powerful stance. This design approach not only enhanced the Charger’s visual appeal but also highlighted its performance capabilities.
Chrome Accents and Design Details
The 1968 Charger R/T was liberally adorned with chrome accents, further enhancing its visual appeal. The chrome grille, bumper, window trim, and side moldings added a touch of elegance and sophistication to the car’s overall design. The signature “Charger” script, prominently displayed on the grille, served as a clear indicator of the car’s identity.
The distinctive rectangular taillights, another prominent design feature, were integrated seamlessly into the rear end, adding to the car’s sporty and modern look.
Design Comparison with Earlier Models
The 1968 Charger R/T marked a significant departure from its predecessors in terms of design. | Feature | 1966 Charger | 1967 Charger | 1968 Charger R/T ||————————-|—————-|—————-|——————–|| Body Style | Fastback | Fastback | Fastback || Grille | Horizontal bars | Horizontal bars | Vertical bars || Taillights | Round | Round | Rectangular || Roofline | Higher | Lower | Lower || Overall Design | Conservative | Sportier | Aggressive || “Coke Bottle” Styling | Not Present | Not Present | Present |The 1968 Charger R/T’s design incorporated a more aggressive and muscular aesthetic, featuring a lower roofline, flared fenders, and a distinctive vertical grille.
These changes, along with the introduction of the “coke bottle” styling, contributed to the car’s iconic status and cemented its place as a true muscle car icon.
Performance and Powertrain
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T was a powerhouse on the road, offering a range of potent engine options and a muscular drivetrain designed to deliver thrilling performance.
Engine Options
The 1968 Charger R/T came standard with a 383 cubic inch (6.3L) V8 engine, producing 330 horsepower. However, the real muscle resided in the optional 440 cubic inch (7.2L) V8, available in two forms: the 440 “Magnum” and the 440 “Six-Pack.”
- The 440 Magnum, rated at 375 horsepower, offered a potent combination of torque and power, making it a popular choice among performance enthusiasts.
- The 440 Six-Pack, equipped with three two-barrel carburetors, pushed the power output to a staggering 390 horsepower, making it the most powerful engine available in the 1968 Charger R/T. The Six-Pack was a true performance beast, offering a thrilling driving experience with its aggressive acceleration and high-revving capabilities.
The Significance of the 440 Magnum Engine
The 440 Magnum engine, with its robust design and impressive power output, played a significant role in establishing the Charger’s reputation as a muscle car icon.
- The engine’s high torque allowed for quick acceleration and effortless passing, making the Charger a formidable force on the road.
- The 440 Magnum’s durability and reliability made it a popular choice for both street and drag strip use, contributing to the Charger’s enduring legacy as a performance car.
Transmission Options
The 1968 Charger R/T was offered with a choice of three transmissions:
- The standard three-speed automatic transmission, while adequate for everyday driving, was not ideal for maximizing the Charger’s performance potential.
- The four-speed manual transmission, with its close-ratio gears, offered a more engaging and rewarding driving experience, allowing the driver to fully exploit the engine’s power and torque.
- The Torqueflite automatic transmission, available with the 440 Magnum and Six-Pack engines, provided smooth and efficient shifting, making the Charger a comfortable and capable cruiser for long drives.
Performance Comparison with Other Muscle Cars, 1968 Dodge Charger R/T
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T, with its powerful engine options and muscular drivetrain, was a formidable competitor in the muscle car arena. It offered comparable performance to other iconic muscle cars of the era, such as the Chevrolet Chevelle SS 396, Ford Mustang GT, and Plymouth Road Runner.
The Charger’s large size and aggressive styling, combined with its potent powertrain, made it a force to be reckoned with on the streets and at the drag strip.
Interior and Features
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T’s interior was a testament to the era’s penchant for bold design and luxurious appointments. The cabin offered a blend of comfort and performance-oriented features, making it an attractive choice for both everyday driving and spirited excursions.
Interior Design and Materials
The Charger R/T’s interior was characterized by its spaciousness and use of high-quality materials. The dashboard was dominated by a large, wraparound instrument cluster that housed a speedometer, tachometer, and various gauges. The seats were generously padded and upholstered in vinyl or cloth, offering a comfortable ride for both driver and passengers.
The steering wheel was a thick, three-spoke design, providing a confident grip. The overall design emphasized a sporty and functional aesthetic, with chrome accents and woodgrain trim adding touches of elegance.
Interior Color Options and Trim Levels
Dodge offered a variety of interior color options for the 1968 Charger R/T. Popular choices included black, blue, red, and green. The Charger R/T was also available in several trim levels, each offering unique features and amenities. The base model came with standard vinyl upholstery, while higher trim levels featured plusher cloth seats, upgraded door panels, and a center console.
Technological Advancements and Comfort Features
Despite its muscle car heritage, the 1968 Charger R/T incorporated several technological advancements and comfort features. The standard equipment included a radio, heater, and optional air conditioning. Some models were equipped with power steering and power brakes, enhancing the driving experience.
The availability of optional features like a rear window defroster and a padded dash further added to the Charger R/T’s comfort and convenience.
Standard and Optional Interior Features
The following table summarizes the standard and optional interior features available in the 1968 Dodge Charger R/T:| Feature | Standard | Optional ||—|—|—|| Upholstery | Vinyl | Cloth || Steering Wheel | Three-spoke | N/A || Dashboard | Wraparound with instrument cluster | N/A || Seats | Bench seat | Bucket seats || Center Console | N/A | Available || Radio | AM | AM/FM || Heater | Standard | N/A || Air Conditioning | Optional | N/A || Power Steering | Optional | N/A || Power Brakes | Optional | N/A || Rear Window Defroster | Optional | N/A || Padded Dash | Optional | N/A |
Cultural Impact and Legacy
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T’s impact extends far beyond its impressive performance specifications. It has become an enduring symbol of American muscle car culture, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture and inspiring generations of automotive enthusiasts. Its iconic design, powerful engine, and association with thrilling on-screen moments have cemented its place as a legend.
Appearances in Popular Culture
The 1968 Charger R/T’s presence in movies, television shows, and music has played a pivotal role in shaping its cultural legacy. Its striking design and powerful engine made it a natural choice for action-packed scenes and high-octane chases.
- The Dukes of Hazzard: The iconic 1969 Dodge Charger, known as “General Lee,” became synonymous with the popular TV series, further solidifying the Charger’s place in American pop culture. The car’s distinctive orange paint and Confederate flag on its roof made it instantly recognizable.
- Bullitt: Steve McQueen’s iconic chase scene in the 1968 film “Bullitt” featuring a Highland Green 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback battling a black 1968 Dodge Charger R/T is considered one of the greatest car chases ever filmed.
- Gone in 60 Seconds: The 1974 film “Gone in 60 Seconds” featured a 1973 Dodge Charger, driven by Eleanor, a character portrayed by H.B. “Macho Man” Hall, who was known for his automotive expertise. This film further elevated the Charger’s status as a symbol of speed and power.
Influence on American Automotive Culture
The 1968 Charger R/T’s influence on American automotive culture is undeniable. Its design, performance, and association with thrilling on-screen moments have inspired generations of automotive enthusiasts.
- Design Inspiration: The 1968 Charger R/T’s sleek and aggressive design has served as inspiration for numerous subsequent muscle car models. Its distinctive fastback roofline, long hood, and muscular stance have been emulated by many manufacturers, creating a lasting legacy in automotive design.
- Performance Benchmark: The 1968 Charger R/T’s powerful 440 cubic inch V8 engine set a new benchmark for performance in its class. Its ability to deliver blistering acceleration and impressive top speed made it a formidable competitor on the racetrack and on the streets.
- Cultural Icon: The 1968 Charger R/T’s association with popular culture has solidified its status as a cultural icon. Its appearances in movies, television shows, and music have made it instantly recognizable and have helped to create a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era of American muscle.
Conclusive Thoughts: 1968 Dodge Charger R/T
The 1968 Dodge Charger R/T, more than just a car, is a time capsule, transporting us back to an era of unbridled horsepower and automotive artistry. It remains a testament to the ingenuity and passion of the engineers who crafted it, and its enduring legacy continues to inspire enthusiasts and collectors alike.