I have long admired custom builds, especially if the work is performed to a high standard. Stunning engineering and attention to the minutest detail can drive a passionate enthusiast to distraction, and I admire anyone willing to commit to such a build. However, simplicity is sometimes the best approach, which could apply to this 1968 Dodge Charger. The seller believes it retains its original engine, which is in excellent health. Transforming it into a firebreathing monster would be easy, but perhaps stepping back and drawing a breath first might be worthwhile. If you have visions for this classic, you will find it listed here on eBay in Platteville, Wisconsin. Bidding sits below the reserve at $24,500, but time is running out for those wishing to stake a claim on this classic.

Deciphering the Fender Tag for this Charger confirms it rolled out of the factory wearing Medium Green Metallic paint. It underwent a color change at some point, and that move has done its appearance no favors. Regaining its original splendor would be pretty straightforward, but the new owner faces rust repairs before they grab the spray gun. I can hear some of you shuddering because “tin worm” can exact a heavy toll on these classics. However, the shopping list will include a new trunk pan and rear quarter panels. The wallet can be reasonably safely stowed back in the buyer’s pocket with those items purchased. The underside carries surface corrosion, but the floors and rails are rock-solid. Some might consider the rotisserie route, but that may not be necessary. Modern products would allow the buyer to treat and neutralize the corrosion and underseal this car to protect it from future problems without needing to dismantle it. Some trim pieces are due for replacement, and the wheels don’t tick the boxes for me. However, the car could easily look a million bucks with a fresh coat of its original paint shade and more appropriate wheels.

Lifting the hood is where things become interesting with this Charger. The seller believes it is numbers-matching, meaning the engine bay apparently houses the original 383ci V8. The 383 is a tough piece of iron, with the car’s A-727 automatic transmission and 8¾” rear end equally robust. For those seeking an effortless driving experience, power assistance for the steering and brakes should tick the boxes for you. There were more potent weapons in Dodge’s armory, but the 290hp churned out by this motor could launch the Charger through the ¼-mile in 15.8 seconds. The previous owner swapped the original carburetor for an Edelbrock unit, which may have unlocked a few additional ponies. Finding more is easy and inexpensive by using off-the-shelf parts like headers, a better exhaust, and an upgraded camshaft. The new owner doesn’t need to go over the top because any figure north of 300hp will satisfy most enthusiasts but would leave this classic with acceptable manners. The seller indicates the previous owner installed a new fuel tank, water pump, brake hoses, and wheel cylinders. The motor roars to life with no issues and shows excellent oil pressure. The Charger isn’t roadworthy, but getting it there is a challenge the winning bidder could undertake in a home workshop.

The supplied photos in the seller’s listing are low-quality, with the interior shots the worst. It seems to tell a story in two halves, with items like the seatcovers, console, and dash looking respectable if the buyer’s goal is a driver-quality build. However, the carpet is gone, the armrests are pretty shabby, and there’s no carpet. The dash pad appears cracked, and the headliner’s condition is unknown. However, if the shopping list only extends to the items I’ve listed, refreshing the interior to a respectable standard shouldn’t cost the earth. It isn’t loaded with optional extras, but the factory air conditioning, Rally gauge cluster, console, and radio, are welcome inclusions.

I previously broached the subject of simplicity in a project build, which is a topic worth exploring further. Classic Mopar products are some of the best vehicles from which to extract neck-snapping performance because the catalog of genuine high-performance parts is extensive. Hemis are the kings of the hill, while a 440 Six-Pack is no wimp. However, the mechanical components in this Charger are virtually bulletproof, and extracting extra power from the healthy 383 under the hood would be inexpensive and straightforward. The same applies to the panels and paint, with evidence that reinstating a factory appearance would not be difficult. By following that path and maybe bolting on a set of factory Rally wheels, the build would be relatively easy, the car would turn heads and command respect, and it would pin occupants in their seats when the pedal hits the metal. Your opinion could vary from mine, and I respect that. It will be fascinating to read your ideas if you found this Charger parked in your workshop.