Rare 1968 Dodge Coronet R/T Convertible Discovered

A classic Mopar muscle car was recently unearthed in Massachusetts after sitting outdoors for decades.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Car Culture

Rare 1968 Dodge Coronet R/T Convertible Discovered

Live Poll

Is restoring an old, damaged car a good way to spend your time and money?

A classic car enthusiast discovered a rare 1968 Dodge Coronet R/T convertible in Massachusetts. The vehicle, which sat outdoors for several decades, is now undergoing a restoration process.

Why it matters

The vehicle represents a significant find for collectors due to its rarity and limited production numbers. Restoring such a car preserves a piece of American automotive history.

Dodge produced only 519 units of the 1968 Coronet R/T convertible, with 423 of those featuring a three-speed automatic transmission. The model was factory-rated at 375 horsepower from its 440-cubic-inch V8 engine.

The details

The car shows signs of multiple paint jobs including Plum Crazy purple and metallic blue, while the interior remains primarily red. Restoration workers have already replaced one rear fender and removed the second for repair.

1968: Model year of the Dodge Coronet R/T convertible.

Roadmap

This restoration highlights the enduring legacy of the Mopar muscle car era, where high-performance engines were packaged into standard production platforms. It positions the Dodge Coronet R/T as a significant competitor to other classic muscle icons of the late 1960s.

For collectors, this find underscores the value of scouting derelict vehicles that hold significant historical manufacturing records. The extensive work required to restore a car left outdoors for decades emphasizes the high maintenance and financial investment needed to preserve rare classic models.

The takeaway

Preserving a classic car requires careful attention to original specifications and structural integrity after years of exposure. Enthusiasts should prioritize documenting the vehicle's original state before beginning any cosmetic or mechanical restoration work.