This 1966 Dodge Charger proves that fantastic classics are still hidden in barns and sheds, waiting to be liberated and returned to their rightful place on our roads. It hibernated since 2000, but the seller revived it last fall, making it a turnkey proposition for a new owner. A previous owner performed a few changes, but these are reversible if someone wants to perform a faithful refurbishment. However, driving it untouched is possible, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting this beauty.

Dodge released its First Generation Charger in 1966, playing an interesting game by producing a car that was quite lavishly equipped for a vehicle of this type. The exterior shared some styling cues with the Rambler Marlin, and it is easy to see why these classics remain popular today. The seller uncovered this Charger last fall after it had sat in storage since 2000. They worked through the revival process, returning the car to a roadworthy state. There are many positives worth noting, including the Charger’s rock-solid state. The existing paint is tired and flawed, and there is evidence that it isn’t original. It has lifted in several spots, revealing what I believe is the factory Medium Turquoise beneath. The fact that it is flaking suggests the painter didn’t do a good job, and stripping the car would be wise if the new owner seeks a high-end result. The panels have a few repairable bumps and bruises, but the supplied images confirm the floors and trunk pan are rust-free. There is one minor floor repair but no other known issues. The hood scoop and Cragar wheels are later additions; whether they stay or go depends on the buyer’s taste. The glass is free from problems, and the trim looks acceptable for a driver-grade classic.

The ’66 Charger was V8-only territory, with even the entry-level 318ci offering excellent performance. The first owner ordered this car with the 383ci engine, which delivered 325hp and 425 ft/lbs of torque. They teamed the 383 with a three-speed TorqueFlite and power steering. Much has changed since then, with the numbers-matching engine now a distant memory. A 440ci motor occupies its rightful place, an option that Dodge offered to Charger R/T buyers in 1967. The specifications are unclear, but it is realistic to expect a measurable performance improvement. Potential buyers can consider this ’66 a turnkey proposition. The seller recently invested over $3,000 in parts during its revival. They describe it as a solid driver, and flying in and driving home appears to be a realistic option.

The interior was one of the defining features of the 1966 Charger. Dodge pushed out the boat to combine performance with luxury, although this approach only lasted two years. It is effectively a 2+2, with a full-length console and rear “bucket” seats. However, the gauge cluster was the star of the show. I rate it as one of the best-looking to grace the interior of any classic, even nearly sixty years after this car rolled off the line. It looks good in the daylight, but the company’s decision to forgo regular bulbs in favor of electroluminescence was inspired. The setup was expensive and was discontinued when it released the Second Generation. This car’s interior isn’t perfect, but it is unquestionably serviceable. The seller replaced the carpet, and the Black vinyl trim is in generally good order across most of the vehicle. There are a couple of splits on the back seats concealed by tape. If the new owner seeks perfection and is willing to throw caution to the wind, complete sets of seatcovers sell for $1,200. It’s a significant investment, but the result should justify the cost. I can’t spot any real issues with the console or dash, although the pad has cracked in several spots. High-quality reproductions retail for approximately $370, which would be a wise investment to lift the appearance.

The seller listed this 1966 Dodge Charger here on Craigslist in Norridgewock, Maine. It isn’t original, but the foundations are there for a new owner to return this classic to its factory form. Considering tidy examples consistently sell for around $40,000, the seller’s price of $15,000 leaves plenty of room to move before the financial viability becomes questionable. What would be your approach if you became its new owner? Would a faithful refurbishment prove irresistible, or is a cosmetic refresh the preferred option? One thing is certain: You can slip behind the wheel immediately and weigh up the choices while enjoying everything it offers. That sounds like a win/win to me.