1969 Dodge Dart GTS

Buzz

Dodge's answer to the spirited small-block Chevy was the Dart, equipped with a lively, high-revving 340-cid V-8. Officially rated at 275 horsepower, the 340 Dart could effortlessly achieve mid-14-second quarter-mile times, often outperforming larger, more powerful supercars. However, this was the 1960s, an era where subtlety and precision took a backseat. While the 340 was impressive, the 383-cid Dart was expected to be even better. But was it? The 1969 Dodge Dart GTS tells a different story.

Muscle Car Image Gallery

The Dart received a redesign in 1967, with the two-door hardtop boasting clean, understated lines. The 340 and 383 engines were introduced in 1968. The 340 was the standard engine for the GTSport model, which featured bold bumblebee tail stripes, signifying its place in Dodge's Scat Pack lineup of high-performance cars.

The GTS featured an optional 383 four-barrel engine, rated at a genuine 300 horsepower. In contrast, the 340 engine delivered at least 300 horsepower while being 90 pounds lighter. While the GTS's robust suspension paired perfectly with the 340, ensuring efficient power transfer to the road, the 383 disrupted this harmony. Poor traction at launch resulted in no improvement in quarter-mile times.

In 1969, the 383 engine received upgrades similar to the Road Runner/Super Bee, boosting horsepower to 330. Dodge also adjusted the GTS's suspension for the 383, enlarging the front torsion bars and sway bar. However, the heavy-duty six-leaf rear springs and E70xl4 tires remained unchanged. Transmission options included a heavy-duty four-speed or a TorqueFlite automatic, both with standard 3.23:1 gears and optional 5:1 or 3.91:1 ratios with the Sure Grip differential.

Even with the 383 engine, careful throttle control was essential to avoid tire spin and wasted time at launch. Once traction was achieved, the added power of the '69 model made the combination more effective. While not the ideal engine for this setup, it embodied the era's love for bold, unbridled performance.

Return to Classic Muscle Cars Library.

For more cool information on muscle cars, go to:

Dodge muscle cars were among the fastest and wildest. Explore profiles, photos, and specifications of more Dodge muscle cars.
Muscle cars came in various shapes and sizes. Discover features on over 100 muscle cars, including photos and specifications for each model.
Muscle cars created their own unique culture. To dive deeper, read How Muscle Cars Work.

Explore these profiles of muscle cars, complete with photos and specifications for each model:

The 1969 Mercury Cougar Eliminator emerged from Mustang's shadow with its bold stripes and spoiler.
Beep, beep! Make way for one of the most iconic muscle cars ever, the 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Hemi.
The 1970 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am blended sports-car agility with muscle car strength.
The rare and powerful 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 featured an all-aluminum, race-proven V-8 engine.

For related car information, explore these articles:

The engine is the heart of a muscle car, defining its bold character. To understand everything about car engines, check out How Car Engines Work.
Horsepower is the lifeblood of muscle cars, but what does it really mean? Find the answer in How Horsepower Works.
NASCAR race cars capture the essence of muscle car power. Discover what drives these high-performance machines in How NASCAR Race Cars Work.
Considering purchasing a 2007 muscle car or another vehicle? Visit Consumer Guide Automotive for New-Car Reviews, Prices, and Information.

The 1969 Dodge Dart GTS

Specifications

Wheelbase, inches: 111.1

Weight, lbs.: 3,500

Number built: 6,702

Base price: $3,226

Top Available Engine

Type: ohv V-8

Displacement, cid: 383

Fuel system: 1 x 4bbl.

Compression ratio: 10.0:1

Horsepower @ rpm: 330 @ 5200