A stunning 1966 Dodge Coronet Deluxe, restored over 20 years, now boasts a true 426 Hemi engine and breathtaking detail.
Few cars capture the spirit of the muscle car era like the Dodge Coronet, and this restored 1966 Coronet Deluxe stands as a testament to dedication and craftsmanship. Originally a modest two-door sedan, this vehicle has undergone a 20-year transformation, emerging as a stunning Hemi-powered masterpiece.
The Coronet has a storied history, evolving from a full-size car in the 1950s into a midsize powerhouse by the mid-1960s. While the Coronet Deluxe was not born as a Hemi beast, Dodge did offer the legendary 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) Hemi V8 in limited numbers for the 1966 model year. Fewer than 700 Hemis were installed in Coronets that year, making original Hemi cars rare and highly coveted.
A Labor of Love
Dave Thurley, the car’s current owner, purchased the Coronet in 2002, intending to restore it for his wife. However, realizing the car’s potential as a four-speed B-body, he embarked on a journey to create a Hemi tribute. Over two decades, Dave painstakingly restored the car, sourcing a true 426 Hemi engine from a 1971 Dodge Challenger or Plymouth Cuda and retaining as much original detail as possible.
Period-Correct Perfection
Finished in a striking black-over-red color combination, the Coronet exudes elegance and power. While the massive hood scoop hints at its ferocious performance, the rest of the car remains faithful to its original design, including Deluxe badges, a bench seat, and reproduction redline tires. Dave’s commitment to accuracy extends to every detail, fooling even seasoned Hemi aficionados.
Under the hood lies the heart of this transformation: a genuine 426 Hemi engine. Unlike modern crate engines, this powerplant is period-correct, ensuring an authentic muscle car experience. Paired with a four-speed manual transmission, it delivers the exhilarating performance that made the Hemi an icon of the horsepower wars.
Rare Tribute to a Rarer Breed
Though not an original Hemi car, this Coronet Deluxe pays homage to a rare breed. Only 31 four-speed Hemi Coronet post cars were built in 1966, making this tribute all the more special. Its authenticity and craftsmanship set it apart, and while it has yet to grace classic car shows, the video walkaround has already captured the admiration of enthusiasts worldwide.
With its roaring Hemi engine and period-correct details, this 1966 Dodge Coronet Deluxe is a tribute to muscle car heritage and a triumph of restoration. It’s a reminder that with patience, passion, and attention to detail, even a forgotten classic can become a masterpiece.
