Craigslist Find: A Race-Ready ’65 Dodge Coronet 500 For $32,000

Beginning as a full-size entry from Dodge in the 1950s, the Coronet became a mid-size entry in the mid-1960s. Posted on Craigslist, we stumbled across a fully-custom 1965 Dodge Coronet 500.

Considered the top of the line model of the Coronet, the 500 rolled off the line with a 273 cubic-inch 4.5 liter V8 engine, pushing 180 horsepower and 260 lb./ft. of torque. Moreover, the ’65 Coronet had several engine variants ranging from the 273 cubic-inch V8 to the 426 cubic-inch V8.

This Coronet is of a different breed; it’s a stroked 426 cubic-inch 7.0 liter V8 engine that increases its size to a whopping 478 cubic-inches. The owner, a resident of Yucaipa, California, is currently selling this beast for $32,000.

It may be a daunting price, but the features and specifications for this Coronet make it clear why it is valued at a high price by the owner. According to the owner, the cast iron 478 cubic-inch engine has a Mopar race stroker crankshaft, Manley performance rods, 9 to 1 ratio JE racing pistons, and Dawson headers with the cutouts installed.

Furthermore, power hits the pavement with a Torqueflite TCI 727 automatic transmission with a manual shift valve body and a Strange Engineering Dana 60 rear axle with 4.10 gears. In addition, the Coronet has an MSD ignition system and distributor, a Hemi k-frame and race mounts.

Not to mention, the Coronet is mini-tubbed with a roll cage and sub-frame connectors. With so many features, this Coronet has dual trunk mounted batteries with a disconnect switch.

The owner says it’s a nice car to take on a cruise, to the grocery store, or down the track. But honestly, it looks to be built to race, not haul fruits and vegetables.

It may need a new paint job but the condition of this car is astonishing given it is 50 years old. Is the asking price of $32,000 too high? Feel free to share your thoughts below on this race-ready Coronet.