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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.
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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.
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