1966 Dodge Charger – The Iconic Muscle Car That Started It All
The 1966 model year marked the debut of the Dodge Charger, a landmark American performance coupe. The inaugural Charger established the iconic fastback “Coke bottle” styling along with big V8 power that defined the Charger’s muscle car formula for years to come.
New Coke Bottle Styling
The Charger debuted Dodge’s radical fastback “Coke bottle” body lines that flowed seamlessly from front to rear. The silhouette was meant to convey motion even while parked. Signature details like the divided grille, V-shaped split taillights, and curving side glass made the Charger distinctly Dodge. The sleek fastback shape stood out from blockier muscle car rivals.
1966 Dodge Charger Sharing the Chrysler B Platform
The Charger shared its chassis platform with the new-for-1966 Chrysler B-body lineup including the Chrysler 300, Dodge Polara, and Plymouth Fury. This provided a robust foundation tuned for power, with features like heavy-duty suspension and brake components. The potent new 426 Hemi V8 was optional, showing Chrysler’s performance intentions for the architecture.
Standard Big Block V8 Power
While the legendary Hemi was optional, the standard Charger engine was hardly modest. Even base models came with a 335 horsepower 383 cubic-inch V8. Optional step-up engines started with the 365 hp 440 “Magnum” big block before culminating in the ultimate 426 Hemi rated at 425 hp. With massive power, the Charger delivered brute force performance.
Well-Appointed Interior
Unlike spartan earlier muscle cars, the Charger offered an array of upscale interior appointments. Customers could opt for bucket seats with console, floor shifter, tachometer and woodgrain accents. Features including air conditioning, AM/FM radio, and rear window defogger made the Charger livable and comfortable alongside its brawny powertrains. This helped set the Charger apart from bare-bones rivals.
1966 Dodge Charger Successful NASCAR Career
The Charger was an instant success on the street and track. On the NASCAR circuit, the Charger won the 1966 NASCAR Grand National championship in the hands of driver David Pearson. The Charger proved fast and rugged, forging Dodge’s racing reputation. The street car’s fastback shape helped inspire the aerodynamic “winged warriors” that soon dominated stock car racing.
An Instant Classic Is Born
The 1966 Charger established the formula of melding eye-catching fastback style, luxury features and outrageous V8 performance into an irresistible complete package. Combined with success in racing, the first year Charger made a huge splash. It kicked off a Charger dynasty that became one of the most iconic nameplates in muscle car history, inspiring collectors and enthusiasts for generations.
