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Unveiling the 1962 Dodge 880: A Forgotten Giant

The 1962 Dodge 880 stands as a testament to American automotive resilience, born out of necessity and thriving in a time of intense competition. This full-size automobile emerged from the Chrysler Corporation's Dodge division, filling a gap left by the discontinuation of the DeSoto brand. Its release coincided with an era when car buyers sought the perfect blend of luxury, size, and power. The Dodge 880's unique fact lies in its hasty development; it was a swift response to market demands, utilizing the Chrysler Newport's chassis and body with distinct Dodge front and rear styling cues.

Design and Innovation: A Blend of Elegance and Muscle

The exterior of the 1962 Dodge 880 boasted a bold yet refined aesthetic, with a front grille that exuded confidence and taillights that hinted at its muscular nature. Inside, passengers were greeted by an expanse of space and comfort, with materials that balanced durability and sophistication. Technologically, it showcased features like push-button TorqueFlite automatic transmission—a marvel at the time. Color options ranged from subdued to vibrant, with hues such as 'Formal Black' and 'Festival Red' catching buyers' eyes. The vehicle came in various body styles including sedans, coupes, convertibles, and even a station wagon, with the convertible often stealing the spotlight for its open-air grandeur.

Historical Significance: More Than Just Another Full-Size Car

The Dodge 880 may not have revolutionized automotive design but it certainly cemented its place in history through its practicality and adaptability. It filled a void for Dodge at a critical moment and stood shoulder-to-shoulder with competitors from Ford and Chevrolet. Its significance is also marked by its brief production span, making it a unique chapter in Dodge's storied history.

Performance and Handling: A Gentle Giant on the Road

Under the hood, the 1962 Dodge 880 came equipped with a range of V8 engines that propelled it to respectable speeds for its size. The top-tier engine option could thrust the car from 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds—a commendable feat for its era. On various terrains, the vehicle maintained composure thanks to its sturdy suspension system. Drivers often reported a sense of command behind the wheel, accompanied by the satisfying rumble of American V8 power.

Ownership Experience: Versatility at Its Core

The Dodge 880 found its place as a versatile machine—equally at home on daily commutes as it was at weekend shows or even occasional drag racing events. Owners praised its straightforward mechanical layout which allowed for relatively easy maintenance. However, like many vehicles of its time, it required regular attention to keep it running smoothly.

Fun Facts: The 880's Unique Place in History

While not as widely recognized as some of its contemporaries, the Dodge 880 still holds an intriguing place in automotive lore. For instance, certain custom-built versions became official cars for astronauts during the early days of NASA's manned space missions—a nod to America's fascination with space exploration at the time. Despite criticisms over its rushed design process and somewhat derivative styling, it has managed to carve out a niche among classic car enthusiasts.

Collector's Information: A Rare Gem in Classic Circles

Today, finding a 1962 Dodge 880 can be quite a challenge; production numbers were relatively low compared to other full-size cars of the era. Estimates suggest that only several thousand units were produced across all body styles. As for value range, well-preserved models can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 or more depending on condition, originality, and historical significance. The market shows appreciation for these vehicles primarily due to their rarity and unique place in Dodge history.

Conclusion: Celebrating an Unsung Hero

The 1962 Dodge 880 may not be the first name that comes to mind when discussing classic cars from the early '60s; however, its story is one worth telling. From filling an unexpected gap in Dodge's lineup to becoming part of America's space race history, this vehicle encapsulates an era where practicality met ambition on four wheels. As we look back on this understated classic, we're reminded that sometimes greatness doesn't shout—it confidently cruises down the road less traveled.

1962 Dodge 880 Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D-BN 20Spring and Shackle Bushing. 1" bottom O.D. X 1-5/8" high, with 9/16" I.D. Each

1962 Dodge 880 Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D-BN 8Shock Absorber Grommet. 1-1/4" bottom O.D., 1" high, with 3/4" I.D. Each

1962 Dodge 880 Door Bumper. 3/4" high X 1/2" wide X 5/8" long-DB 50-MDoor Bumper. 3/4" high X 1/2" wide X 5/8" long. Four used per car. Each

1962 Dodge 880 Hood Adjustment Bolt and Bumper-HA 8Hood Adjustment Bolt and Bumper. 1-3/16" diameter rubber head. 5/16" thick X 18 threads/inch X 1-1/4" long bolt. Each

1962 Dodge 880 License Plate Bumper. 7/16" O.D., fits a 1/4" hole. Each-SB 86License Plate Bumper. 7/16" O.D., fits a 1/4" hole. Each

1962 Dodge 880 Lower Steering Column Seal. Each-SC 63Lower Steering Column Seal. Each

1962 Dodge 880 Trunk Seal-TK 64-A/18Trunk Seal. For cars with flat (not D-shaped) trunk seal end profile. Each

1962 Dodge 880 Nylon Lock Cylinder Gasket. 1-1/4" O.D., 7/8" I.D. Each-UM 2700-104Nylon Lock Cylinder Gasket. 1-1/4" O.D., 7/8" I.D. Each