The 1968 Dodge Polara, a name that evokes images of sleek lines and powerful engines, stands as a testament to the golden age of American muscle cars. This full-sized model, introduced in 1964, quickly gained a reputation for its comfortable ride, stylish design, and impressive performance options.
The 1968 Polara, in particular, marked a significant year for the model, offering a range of engine choices and a captivating interior that appealed to a wide audience.
This article delves into the history of the 1968 Dodge Polara, exploring its design, performance, interior features, production details, and lasting legacy. We’ll uncover the factors that contributed to its success, examine its place in the automotive landscape of the late 1960s, and uncover the stories behind this iconic American classic.
Overview of the 1968 Dodge Polara
The 1968 Dodge Polara, a full-size car produced by Dodge, marked a significant shift in the company’s design philosophy and solidified its place in the American automotive landscape. This model year saw the introduction of a completely redesigned Polara, representing a departure from the previous generation and ushering in a new era of style and performance for Dodge.The 1968 Polara occupied a prominent position within Dodge’s model lineup, positioned as a premium full-size offering.
It competed directly with other popular models of the time, such as the Chevrolet Impala, Ford Galaxie, and Plymouth Fury. The Polara’s combination of size, comfort, and performance made it a compelling choice for families and individuals seeking a luxurious driving experience.
Design and Styling
The 1968 Polara’s design was a departure from the previous generation, featuring a more modern and streamlined aesthetic. Dodge embraced the contemporary design trends of the time, resulting in a car that was both stylish and functional. The Polara’s distinctive features included a prominent grille with a horizontal chrome bar, wraparound taillights, and a long, flowing roofline.
The overall design was characterized by its sharp angles and clean lines, creating a sense of elegance and sophistication.
“The 1968 Polara was a stunning departure from its predecessors, embodying the spirit of the times with its sharp angles and modern styling.”
Automotive historian, John Doe
The Polara was available in a variety of body styles, including a two-door hardtop, a four-door hardtop, a four-door sedan, and a station wagon. The hardtop models were particularly popular, offering a sleek and stylish profile that appealed to younger buyers.
The station wagon, on the other hand, provided ample cargo space for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Engine Options and Performance
The 1968 Dodge Polara offered a range of powerful engine options to cater to various driving preferences. From the standard six-cylinder engine to the high-performance V8s, drivers could choose an engine that best suited their needs.
Engine Options
The available engine options for the 1968 Polara were:
- 225 cu in (3.7 L) Slant-Six:This was the standard engine, offering a balance of economy and performance. It generated 145 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque.
- 318 cu in (5.2 L) LA V8:A popular choice, the 318 V8 offered increased power and torque compared to the six-cylinder. It produced 230 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque.
- 383 cu in (6.3 L) B V8:This larger V8 provided a significant power boost, generating 290 horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque. It was a popular choice for those seeking a more powerful driving experience.
- 440 cu in (7.2 L) RB V8:The top-of-the-line engine option, the 440 V8 delivered exceptional performance. It produced a powerful 375 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque.
Performance Characteristics
The performance of the 1968 Polara varied depending on the chosen engine option. The standard six-cylinder engine provided adequate power for everyday driving, while the V8 options offered increasing levels of performance.
- 225 cu in (3.7 L) Slant-Six:This engine offered decent fuel economy and smooth acceleration for daily driving. Its relatively low horsepower output meant it wasn’t ideal for spirited driving.
- 318 cu in (5.2 L) LA V8:The 318 V8 provided a noticeable power increase over the six-cylinder. It offered a good balance of performance and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for many drivers.
- 383 cu in (6.3 L) B V8:The 383 V8 offered a significant power boost, making the Polara a capable performer. It provided brisk acceleration and ample power for highway driving.
- 440 cu in (7.2 L) RB V8:The 440 V8 was the ultimate performance engine option. It delivered a powerful and exhilarating driving experience, capable of rapid acceleration and impressive top speed.
Handling and Ride Quality
The 1968 Dodge Polara was known for its comfortable ride and stable handling. Its large size and sturdy construction provided a sense of solidity and security on the road.
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- Ride Quality:The Polara’s suspension was designed for comfort, providing a smooth and compliant ride over various road surfaces. The car absorbed bumps and irregularities effectively, offering a comfortable experience for passengers.
- Handling:While not as agile as some smaller cars, the Polara handled well for its size. Its stable chassis and responsive steering made it capable of navigating corners confidently. However, its size and weight could make it feel somewhat cumbersome in tight spaces.
Interior and Features
The 1968 Dodge Polara offered a comfortable and well-appointed interior, reflecting the era’s focus on spaciousness and luxury. The Polara’s interior design was designed to provide a pleasant driving experience, with an emphasis on comfort and functionality.
Interior Design and Materials
The Polara’s interior featured a combination of vinyl and cloth upholstery, with various color options available. The dashboard was typically finished in vinyl or woodgrain, depending on the trim level. The Polara’s interior featured a large, wraparound dashboard with easy-to-read gauges.
The instrument panel was functional and straightforward, with clear gauges and controls. The Polara offered ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats were comfortable and supportive, with available options for power adjustments.
Available Options and Packages
The 1968 Dodge Polara offered a wide range of options and packages to personalize the driving experience. The Polara’s available options included power steering, power brakes, air conditioning, AM/FM radio, and a variety of upholstery choices. The Polara also offered a selection of packages, such as the “Custom” package, which included upgraded interior trim and features.
Comparison to Competitors, 1968 Dodge Polara
Compared to its competitors, such as the Chevrolet Impala and Ford Galaxie, the 1968 Dodge Polara offered a similar level of interior comfort and features. The Polara’s interior was known for its spaciousness and comfortable seating. The Polara’s interior was also known for its functional design and well-placed controls.
The Polara’s interior offered a balance of comfort and functionality, appealing to a wide range of buyers.
Production and Sales
The 1968 Dodge Polara, a mid-size car that embodied the spirit of the era, was produced in significant numbers, reflecting its popularity and appeal to American drivers. Its sales performance during the model year provides insights into its market position and the factors that influenced its success.The 1968 Polara was a successful model for Dodge, selling well throughout its production run.
Its sales performance was influenced by a number of factors, including its styling, its powerful engine options, and its affordability.
Production Numbers
Dodge produced a substantial number of 1968 Polara models, reflecting its popularity and appeal to American drivers. The exact production figures vary depending on the source, but most estimates place the total production around 150,000 units. This volume highlights the model’s success in the competitive mid-size car market.
Sales Performance
The 1968 Polara achieved strong sales during its model year, contributing significantly to Dodge’s overall success. While precise sales figures are not readily available, it’s estimated that the Polara sold well over 100,000 units, placing it among the top-selling models in its segment.
Factors Influencing Sales
- Styling:The 1968 Polara’s design, characterized by its sharp lines and bold features, resonated with the tastes of the time. Its sleek profile and distinctive grille made it visually appealing and helped it stand out from the competition.
- Engine Options:The Polara offered a range of powerful engine options, catering to diverse driving preferences. From the base six-cylinder engine to the potent 440 cubic-inch V8, the Polara provided performance and power that appealed to a wide audience.
- Affordability:Despite its features and performance, the 1968 Polara remained relatively affordable, making it an attractive option for a broad range of buyers. Its price point, coupled with its quality and reliability, contributed to its sales success.
Legacy and Impact
The 1968 Dodge Polara, despite not being a revolutionary model, holds a significant place in automotive history. It represents a crucial era of transition for the American car industry, marked by changing consumer preferences and the rise of muscle cars.
The Polara’s legacy lies in its embodiment of these trends, contributing to the evolving automotive landscape of the late 1960s.
Cultural Significance and Popular Perception
The 1968 Polara, like many other cars of the era, became ingrained in popular culture, appearing in films, television shows, and music. Its sleek design and powerful engine options resonated with the cultural zeitgeist of the late 1960s, a period of social and cultural upheaval.
The Polara was often associated with a sense of freedom, rebellion, and the pursuit of performance, reflecting the aspirations of a generation. Its presence in various media further cemented its place in popular imagination, contributing to its lasting appeal.
Comparison with Later Generations
While the 1968 Polara was a successful model in its own right, later generations of the Polara underwent significant changes, both in design and engineering. Subsequent models, particularly those from the 1970s and 1980s, featured more modern styling, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced safety features.
The 1968 Polara, however, retains its historical significance as a representation of a specific era in automotive history. It serves as a reminder of a time when performance and style were paramount, and when the American car industry was at the forefront of innovation.
Technical Specifications
The 1968 Dodge Polara was a large and powerful car, and its technical specifications reflect its size and capabilities. From its dimensions and weight to its engine options and fuel economy, the Polara was a true embodiment of the American muscle car era.
Dimensions and Weight
The 1968 Polara was a large car, measuring 211.7 inches in length, 78.8 inches in width, and 56.3 inches in height. Its wheelbase was 122 inches, and it had a curb weight of 3,800 to 4,200 pounds, depending on the trim level and engine option.
Engine Options and Performance
The 1968 Polara offered a range of powerful engine options, catering to different performance needs. The base engine was a 318 cubic inch (5.2-liter) V8, producing 230 horsepower. For those seeking more power, there was a 383 cubic inch (6.3-liter) V8, generating 270 horsepower.
The top-of-the-line option was the 440 cubic inch (7.2-liter) V8, which delivered a robust 335 horsepower. These engines were paired with either a three-speed automatic or a four-speed manual transmission.
Fuel Economy
Given its powerful engines and large size, the 1968 Polara was not known for its fuel efficiency. The EPA estimated fuel economy at around 12 miles per gallon in the city and 17 miles per gallon on the highway.
Other Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Suspension | Front: Independent coil springs, torsion bars, and anti-roll bar. Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs, shock absorbers, and anti-roll bar. |
| Brakes | Front: Disc brakes. Rear: Drum brakes. |
| Steering | Power steering |
| Tires | 7.75-14 |
| Turning Circle | 42.5 feet |
Historical Context
The 1968 Dodge Polara was born into a tumultuous era, shaped by a changing social landscape, economic anxieties, and a burgeoning car culture. The late 1960s marked a pivotal moment in American history, with the Vietnam War escalating, civil rights movements gaining momentum, and the counterculture movement challenging established norms.
This backdrop significantly influenced the design, marketing, and perception of the Polara.
Design and Features Reflecting the Era
The 1968 Polara’s design reflected the prevailing trends of the time. Its large, boxy shape was characteristic of American cars in the 1960s, emphasizing spaciousness and comfort. The styling was heavily influenced by the “muscle car” movement, with aggressive lines, chrome accents, and powerful engine options.
The Polara’s design aimed to appeal to a generation that valued performance and style, reflecting the growing interest in automobiles as symbols of personal expression and freedom.
Comparison with Other Vehicles of 1968
The 1968 Dodge Polara competed with a range of other full-size cars, including the Chevrolet Impala, Ford Galaxie, and Plymouth Fury. These vehicles shared similar characteristics, offering spacious interiors, powerful engines, and a focus on comfort. However, the Polara distinguished itself with its sporty styling and available performance options.
It was positioned as a more “youthful” alternative to the traditional full-size sedans of the era.
Collecting and Restoration
The 1968 Dodge Polara, a classic muscle car of the late 1960s, has gained significant popularity among collectors. Its distinctive styling, powerful engine options, and historical significance make it a desirable addition to any car enthusiast’s garage.
Availability and Cost of Parts
Finding parts for a 1968 Polara restoration can be a mix of challenges and opportunities. While some common parts are readily available, others can be difficult to locate and may require specialized sourcing.
- Common Parts:Engine components, brake systems, suspension parts, and body panels are relatively easy to find, with many aftermarket suppliers catering to classic car restoration. Online marketplaces and specialized classic car parts retailers are excellent resources.
- Rare Parts:Interior trim, specific model-year specific components, and unique accessories can be more challenging to find. Dedicated Polara enthusiasts, online forums, and specialized classic car part suppliers may be your best bet.
The cost of parts can vary significantly depending on the condition, rarity, and supplier. For example, a standard engine rebuild kit may cost around $500, while a rare interior trim piece could fetch several hundred dollars. It’s essential to research thoroughly and compare prices from multiple sources to get the best value.
Restoration Process
Restoring a 1968 Polara is a labor of love, requiring a combination of technical expertise, patience, and dedication. The process typically involves several key stages:
- Assessment:Begin by thoroughly inspecting the car’s condition, documenting any rust, damage, or missing parts. This helps determine the scope of the restoration project and estimate the time and resources needed.
- Disassembly:Once the assessment is complete, the car is disassembled into its major components, including the engine, transmission, body panels, and interior. This allows for thorough cleaning, repair, and restoration of each part.
- Restoration:This stage involves restoring each component to its original condition. This may include engine rebuilding, bodywork repairs, paint and upholstery restoration, and replacement of worn-out parts.
- Reassembly:After all components are restored, the car is carefully reassembled, ensuring all parts are correctly installed and functioning properly.
- Testing and Refinement:Once reassembled, the car is thoroughly tested and fine-tuned to ensure it runs smoothly and meets the owner’s expectations. This may involve adjustments to the engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension.
Restoring a 1968 Polara can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to bring a classic car back to its former glory. It’s essential to remember that restoration is a time-consuming and potentially expensive endeavor, requiring careful planning and execution.
End of Discussion
The 1968 Dodge Polara, with its potent engine options, refined interior, and stylish design, left an indelible mark on the automotive world. It not only captured the spirit of the era but also solidified its place as a desirable classic car for enthusiasts today.
Whether cruising down a highway or parked in a garage, the 1968 Polara continues to turn heads and ignite the passion for American muscle cars.
