The car most closely matching “the rarest Dodge muscle car from the ’60s with a factory 426ci Hemi” is the 1968 Dodge Dart LO23 Super Stock Hemi Dart. Dodge says it built 80 LO23 cars at Hamtramck Assembly Plant. That figure makes the Dart exceptionally rare, although “rarest” depends on which Dodge models and factory race packages are included in a comparison.
Which Dodge is the title referring to?
It is the 1968 Dodge Dart LO23 Super Stock Hemi Dart, a purpose-built drag-racing car rather than an ordinary Dart fitted with a powerful engine. Dodge’s account identifies the LO23 model and says all 80 were assembled at Hamtramck, Michigan. Dodge’s LO23 history is the primary source for the car’s identity and production count.
The label “rarest” needs a comparison set. Eighty cars is a documented, very small production run, but by itself it does not prove that the LO23 was the rarest of every 1960s Dodge muscle car or every Dodge offered with a Hemi. The claim is best read as pointing to this notably scarce factory Hemi race car.
What does LO23 mean?
Dodge explains the code as “L” for Dodge Dart, “O” for Super Stock, and “23” for a two-door hardtop. The designation identifies a specific factory Super Stock Dart package, not merely a shorthand for any Dart with a 426 Hemi.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware match#1 Best Overall
- Made In Malaysia
How many 1968 Hemi Darts were built?
Dodge documents 80 LO23 Super Stock Hemi Darts built in 1968. A secondary production-number account also reports 80 1968 Dodge Darts with the 426 Hemi, but Dodge’s own history is the stronger source for the named LO23 run. The figure refers to cars built as LO23s; it does not establish how many survive today or whether any individual surviving car remains in its original configuration.
Was the Hemi Dart a factory race car?
Yes. Dodge describes the LO23 as a Super Stock car intended for drag-racing competition. The manufacturer’s history says the NHRA clearance process began with a Chrysler Race Group letter dated December 7, 1967, addressed to NHRA official W. E. “Farmer” Dismuke. In the letter’s opening, reproduced by Dodge, the Race Group wrote: “We thought we would give you a quick rundown on our proposed ’68 SS/B Race Cars.”
Rank #2
- Authenticity: This 1/5 scale die-cast model car accurately recreates the iconic 1968 Dodge Dart in vivid red.
- Muscle Mania Series: Part of the Hot Wheels Muscle Mania collection celebrating American muscle cars.
- Detailed Replica: Intricate details capture the original's sleek body lines and distinctive styling cues.
- Display-Worthy: A must-have for auto enthusiasts and collectors to showcase their passion.
- Compact Size: Measuring approximately 3 inches long, it's a perfect desktop or shelf accessory.
What was in the 426 Race Hemi configuration?
Dodge’s account describes a competition-oriented 426 Race Hemi with a 12.5:1 compression ratio, cast-iron heads, an aluminum cross-ram intake, and two Holley 770-cfm four-barrel carburetors. Listed race equipment also includes a high-capacity oil pump, transistor ignition, a dual-point distributor with cable-drive tach, and competition headers fitted for racing.
Those details describe the manufacturer’s race configuration. They should not be taken as proof that every LO23 still has those components today; a car’s present condition and originality require evidence about that specific example.
Rank #3
- Detailed 1:25 Scale: Experience the thrill of building a 1976 Dodge Dart Sport Weekend Warrior in stunning 1:25 scale, capturing every detail of the iconic muscle car
- Four Build Options: Customize your model with four unique build options Stock, Custom, Weekend Warrior, or Drag, each offering a distinct look and feel
- Over 145 Pieces: Dive into a comprehensive build experience with 145 meticulously designed parts, including an optional big block V-8 engine and custom engine parts
- Realistic Details: Bring your model to life with authentic features like Torq-thrust mag wheels, pad-printed Goodyear Polyglas GT tires, and a set of authentic decals with colorful options
- Suitable for Ages 10+: Perfect for both young modelers and experienced hobbyists, this kit is designed to be enjoyable and challenging for ages 10 and up
What did a new Hemi Dart cost?
Dodge lists an MSRP of $5,146 plus destination for the described TorqueFlite or four-speed cars. Its historical account also notes a dealer advertisement with a lower retail price. These are period figures, not a current valuation; no present-day equivalent is stated here.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Optional complete 440 cubic inch or 426 Hemi V8 engines plus a separate engine stand
- Detailed interior and chassis to build either stock muscle car or vintage drag racer
- Molded in white, transparent red and clear Chrome plated parts and black vinyl tires
- Waterslide decals
- Illustrated assembly guide
Rank #4
- Iconic Muscle Car: This Hot Wheels die-cast replica features the classic 1968 Dodge Dart, a legendary American muscle car known for its powerful performance and distinctive styling from the golden era of drag racing
- Drag Racers Collection: Part of the exciting Drag Racers series, this model captures the essence of high-speed competition with authentic racing details and aerodynamic design elements that celebrate the thrill of quarter-mile racing
- Vibrant Orange Finish: Showcases a striking orange paint scheme that makes this vehicle stand out in any collection, featuring detailed graphics and a bold color that reflects the aggressive nature of drag racing culture
- Collectible Series Number: Designated as number 5 out of 10 in the Piste De Course series and 104 out of 250 in the overall collection, making it a special piece for Hot Wheels enthusiasts and collectors
- Premium Die-Cast Construction: Crafted with durable metal body and high-quality materials that ensure long-lasting play value and display appeal, featuring authentic proportions and intricate detailing true to the original vehicle
What the production figure can—and cannot—tell you
- It establishes a small factory run: Dodge’s documented total is 80 LO23 cars.
- It supports “exceptionally rare”: the count is enough to convey scarcity without claiming a definitive rank across every Dodge model.
- It does not authenticate a particular car: the model history explains the code and race specification, but appearance alone cannot verify a surviving car’s factory identity or originality.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
