Highlights
- Impressive period Monaco Sedan with Citizen Band radio
- Desirable 7.2L RB V8 powerplant
- In need of some restoration, particularly internally
- Still in running order
The Appeal
Immensely drivable, distinctly rebellious in tone and packed with a big old V8 engine, the Dodge Monaco is firmly in the classic Americana camp - while not quite entering the heady popularity of its era-sharing counterparts. More’s the pity; they’re handsome, well-appointed and angular cars from arguably the golden era of big old desert-crossing route-exploring motoring.
This example has found itself in the UK, complete with a Citizen Band radio mounted on the dash. The vendor notes that it’s in need of some restoration, but we can’t help but think a bit of wax to preserve that suitably smoky personality is in order…
Whether you keep the patina or go for a full restoration, there’s no doubt you’ll have a grand American classic on your hands.
The History and Paperwork
- Sadly the vehicle arrived in 2020 with no real history
- However, the car does have the original Production Broadcast Sheet and handbook
- It’s currently indicating 40,013 miles on a five-figure odometer
- However, this isn’t likely to be the genuine mileage, considering the car’s age
- While the car’s been in the vendor’s ownership, it’s had:
- Replacement exhaust fitted in 2021
- A new carburettor was installed in 2021
- And a new starter motor in 2022
- However, due to a lack of garages big enough to fit it(!), it has spent much of its life outside
The Interior
- The car is fitted out in ‘H’ Specification, one of the higher levels of trim
- The interior has a level of wear throughout and requires some restoration work
- We note a substantial crack in the dashboard
- However, the rest of the dash is marked by only an aged patina
- Outsized instruments and a leather-wrapped steering wheel create an undeniable character
- Instruments are lightly fogged
- The vendor says all instruments are working, though the fuel gauge is rather inaccurate
- The air conditioning and radio are no longer present, though the CB radio is well installed
- The handbrake’s handle has been broken, making releasing it rather difficult
- The seats are in good order with light marks but no rips or tears
- The carpets and headlining carry a level of wear but still look the part
- Round the back, the boot is clean and well-kept, with some light signs of corrosion
The Exterior
- Impressively designed, bold lines with an aggressive-looking grille
- Black paintwork with plenty of chrome trims
- Dodge hood ornament clearly on display
- The car has gained a patina throughout, with paint streaks and spots of corrosion
- However, it appears to be solid with all body-work straight and tightly-knit
- Front lights are in good order with particularly clean lenses
- Impressive, angular rear lights are clear of cracks and fractures
- Some branding and trim is missing but should be easy to replace
- Some leaves, grime and moss have gathered around the windows and trims
- Bumpers and chromework are streaked and worn
- Some corrosion to the sills, however, they still look fairly solid
- Arches show some distinctive wear but nothing of major consequence
- The car is sitting on five-spoke wheels, that still look bright and nicely-presented
- The vendor notes that there is a slow air leak on the front-right tyre
- Underneath, the car is worn with some corrosion, but it appears to be strictly surface-level
The Mechanics
- Powered by the highly desirable 426 2-4BBL 8-cylinder “RB” Engine
- 3-speed automatic transmission
- The engine bay is in fair condition though does show some signs of corrosion
- Originally carried lowering blocks, which are included in the sale
- The car features a recently-fitted exhaust, carb and starter motor
- The vendor notes that the belts require replacement
- They expect the car to need long-term-dry-storage
- As a result, you’ll need a garage with over 17ft of storage space!
- The car is starting and running well with no major faults
- The vendor notes it can require a couple of starting attempts from cold
- No reports of leaks or excessive bangs and smoke
Summary
We’re utterly charmed by this Dodge Monaco, patina and all. Whether you plan to take it on a full restoration or preserve its wear, there’s no doubting the car’s impressive profile.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.