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1966 Dodge Charger 426 Hemi
Dodge introduced the Charger in 1966 as a long-roof B-body fastback with hidden headlamps, a full-width taillamp panel, four individual bucket seats, and a console running into the rear compartment. At the top of its all-V8 engine range sat the 426 Street Hemi: 425 horsepower, 490 lb-ft of torque, dual Carter four-barrels, and either a TorqueFlite automatic or four-speed manual.
Only 468 of the 37,344 Chargers built for 1966 were Hemi-powered. Reported transmission totals divide those cars into 218 automatics and 250 four-speeds. A genuine car should carry the Charger XP29 body sequence, model-year digit 6, and engine character H for the 426 dual-four-barrel Hemi. Fender badges alone do not establish that history.
Hemi Chargers also received larger hydraulic drum brakes and were associated with 7.75 x 14 Blue Streak tires. The Charger used torsion bars and a sway bar at the front with asymmetrical leaf springs at the rear; Sure Grip and heavy-duty suspension equipment were available. Exact axle selection depends on transmission and build records.
The 1966 Dodge palette offered 21 documented colors, ranging from Black, White, and Silver to Bright Red, Deep Plum, Saddle Bronze, and two turquoise shades. The paint code identifies a factory offering; confirming the original finish of a particular Charger still requires its fender tag, broadcast sheet, or other car-specific documentation.