The Daytona, a popular classic model powered by the famous 426 cubic-inch (7.0-liter) Hemi V8 engine, is expected to bring in between $1.1 million and $1.3 million at Mecum’s Indy 2022 event. These values are much larger than the previous high of $900,000 set by an example of Copper Metallic in 2015.
So this F8 Dark Green is not only the most expensive 1969 Charger Daytona ever sold at auction, but also the first to cross the $1 million mark. Why is it so valuable, you may wonder. After all, this is the most-selected Hemi Daytona that has ever existed. The Mopar comes with a host of factory extras, including a sturdy handlebar rear end, power steering, hydraulic disc brakes, and power windows. It also comes standard with a six-way adjustable driver’s seat, tinted windows, and a Light and Max cooling kit.
Optional features include eye-catching green vinyl bucket seat covers, a wood grain center console, color-matched stamped steel wheels, and a remote-controlled left rearview mirror. Furthermore, it had the number 426 Hemi V8 matching under the hood, and it was one of only 70 cars equipped with this engine in 1969. It was also one of 22 Hemi Daytona fitted with the box. four-speed manual.
In the end, it was fully restored to the original sheet metal and accompanied by a copy of the brochure and the Chrysler Registration Report. All in all, it’s an official collector’s item that deserves its million-dollar status perfectly. The Charger Daytona has its roots in the 1968 Dodge Charger 500. The 500, designed with improved aerodynamics, failed to beat the competition in NASCAR, prompting superstar Richard Petty to abandon Dodge for Ford. Dodge responded by developing the Daytona, the most extreme aviation car of its time.
The Daytona, famous for its conical nose and huge rear wing, won six NASCAR races in 1969 and 1970, breaking the 200 mph (322 km/h) limit in the process. Dodge built 503 road-legal vehicles to match the track-ready Daytona. Plymouth released their own concept, the Roadrunner Superbird, in 1970.
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