The 1964 Dodge 440 stands as one of the unsung heroes of the early muscle era, and this example heading to Kissimmee 2026 proves why. Featuring the potent 426 CI Street Wedge V-8, this hardtop pairs period-correct engineering with a faithful restoration that captures the essence of Dodge’s mid-sixties power movement.
Restoration with Period Accuracy
This 1964 Dodge 440 was restored by Best of Show Automotive in Mentor, Ohio, a name known for meticulous craftsmanship. Every detail was handled with period accuracy, from the vivid red exterior to the original bench-seat interior. Its factory appearance is complemented by color-matched wheels and small-diameter hubcaps, offering the understated yet purposeful look that defined Dodge’s muscle foundations.
Power from the 426 Street Wedge
Under the hood sits a date-code correct 426 CI Street Wedge V-8, rebuilt by Michael’s Racing Engines in Macedonia, Ohio. Rated at 415 HP when new, this engine was a powerhouse of its time. It’s paired with a 4-speed manual transmission and a Sure Grip 3.91 rear end, a combination designed to deliver raw traction and engagement. The result is a car that connects the driver directly to its mechanical core, precise, responsive, and muscular.
Performance Character and Driving Feel
Known for its linear power delivery, the Street Wedge earned its reputation before the Hemi dominated Dodge’s performance scene. The 440’s setup emphasizes torque and mid-range strength, allowing it to pull with authority through every gear. The adaptive simplicity of its mechanical layout and low-slung stance deliver a confident, analog driving feel.
Authenticity and Documentation
This example maintains its originality beyond its drivetrain. The Chrysler Registry Report accompanies the vehicle, verifying its provenance. It was also featured in the December 2011 issue of “Mopar Action” magazine, highlighting its significance among enthusiasts and collectors alike. The documentation underlines both its correctness and the quality of restoration.
Design and Presentation
The red-on-red configuration amplifies the 440’s bold yet classic personality. Chrome accents, crisp body lines, and the two-door hardtop design reinforce its blend of elegance and aggression. While the Dodge 440 sat below the Polara in the lineup, it often shared the same performance credentials with less weight, making it a sleeper on the street and a contender at the strip.
Power, Specs, and Highlights
Powered by a 426 CI Street Wedge V-8 paired with a 4-speed manual, the car delivers around 415 HP through a Sure Grip 3.91 rear end. Brembo-sized brakes weren’t yet a thing, but mechanical grip and balanced gearing gave it serious credibility. With a restoration that honors its original configuration, it remains a time capsule of early-sixties engineering power.
Summary
This 1964 Dodge 440 embodies the era when performance was measured in cubic inches and clutch feel. Restored with precision, powered by a correct Street Wedge V-8, and backed by documentation, it’s a reminder of Dodge’s performance roots, pure, powerful, and proudly analog. As it heads to Kissimmee 2026, it represents not just a car, but a chapter in the evolution of American muscle.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information provided is based on market trends and personal opinions and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers should always conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions.
Source & Details: mecum.com
