1968 Dart GTS Convertible

The GTS label stood for GT Sport, but the new 1968 mini muscle car was more than a sporty compact.  Not to take edge off the Road Runner, the GTS might be a more sensible package, said Hot Rod's Steve Kelly in the magazines April 1968 issue.  The base price is higher, but you get things like carpet an the floor, fat tires, bucket seats and a few other niceties that can make Saturday night roaming more comfortable.  The engine is smaller, but that could prove an advantage for the drag racing classes.

Two hefty V-8's were available .  A 340 cid small block engine was standard. It had 10:5:1 compression ratio with a single four barrel carburetor.  The 2340 cranked out 275 HP at 5000 RPM and 340 Ft. Lbs. of torque at 3200 RPM's.  Also a 383 cid big block engine with a four barrel with 300 hp was optional.

Most Dart GTS models had either a four speed manual gearbox or a competition type Torque-Flight automatic transmission. 

Also identifying the GTS were hood power bulges with air vents, body side racing stripes and special GTS emblems.  A rear end bumblebee stripe was a no-cost option. Their were only 271 340 cid automatic convertibles made.  Hot Rod published 14.38 at 97mph in the 1/4 mile in a 340 Torque-Flite equipped GTS.

This 68 Dart GTS 340 cid automatic convertible was restored in Florida in 2001 to concourse condition.  It was originally purchased in Harlem, Georgia.  It is a highly documented car includes 2 build sheets, original bill of sale and Galen Govier decoding paperwork. 

 

Other enhancements included a low restriction exhaust system with chrome tips, a Rallye suspension, 14 x 5.5" wheels and E70 - 14 red streak tires. 

Purchased Nov/05 by Daryl Carter and resides in his personal collection in Penticton BC Canada.

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