Image of 1966 Dodge Polara, sourced from www.vintagecarcollector.com , Image Link.

Introduction

The 1966 Dodge Polara stands as a testament to American automotive ingenuity during an era when size and power ruled the road. Born from the competitive spirit of the 1960s muscle car era, the Polara was Dodge's answer to the demand for full-size luxury with a performance edge. Crafted by the skilled hands at Dodge, a division of Chrysler Corporation, this vehicle not only provided comfort and space but also packed a punch under the hood. A unique fact that car enthusiasts may find fascinating is that the Polara nameplate was used in various forms from the late 1950s until the mid-1970s, but it was the 1966 model year that truly captured the essence of American automotive culture.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1966 Dodge Polara exuded confidence with its long, sleek lines and broad, imposing grille. The car's design was a harmonious blend of elegance and muscle, featuring a squared-off body and subtle contours that hinted at its underlying power. Inside, passengers were greeted by an interior that prioritized comfort and luxury, with high-quality materials such as vinyl or optional leather upholstery adorning the seats. Technologically advanced for its time, the Polara offered features like an AM radio, power steering, and power brakes. Color options ranged from subdued to vibrant, with hues like "Candlelight Cream" and "Persian Blue" catching buyers' eyes. Among body styles, which included sedans, coupes, and convertibles, it was often the two-door hardtop that turned heads and became an iconic representation of this classic line.

Historical Significance

The Polara's impact on automotive design was significant, as it helped bridge the gap between luxury cruisers and performance beasts. It stood out with its combination of a spacious interior and robust engine options, setting a precedent for future full-size vehicles that didn't want to compromise on power. The 1966 model year also marked a shift towards more safety features in American cars—a trend that would grow in importance in subsequent years.

Performance and Handling

Performance-wise, the '66 Polara did not disappoint. Equipped with engine options that ranged up to a 440 cubic inch V8 powerhouse, it could achieve impressive acceleration figures for its size. While exact numbers varied depending on configuration, a well-tuned Polara could sprint from 0-60 mph in under 8 seconds—a notable feat for a full-size sedan of its time. Handling was what one might expect from a large car; it floated over bumps with ease but required attention when navigating tight turns or windy roads. The driving experience was characterized by a deep rumble from the exhaust and a smooth ride that made long journeys feel effortless.

Ownership Experience

The Dodge Polara could serve as anything from a reliable daily driver to an eye-catching show car. Its robust construction meant reliability was generally good for the era, though some parts may now be considered rare or hard-to-find for restoration purposes. Maintenance is straightforward for those familiar with classic Mopar vehicles, making it an accessible piece of history for enthusiasts.

Fun Facts

A few fun facts about the '66 Polara include its appearance in various films and television shows of its time due to its quintessentially American look. While not known for holding any major speed records, it did represent solid performance in a luxury package—a balance that was highly sought after in the '60s.

Collector's Information

Today's collectors might find themselves paying anywhere from $10,000 for a model in decent condition to upwards of $30,000 or more for a fully restored or rare edition Polara. While production numbers were not as low as some limited-run muscle cars of the era (with estimates suggesting tens of thousands were produced), finding one in pristine condition can be challenging. As with many classic cars from this period, values have been appreciating steadily as nostalgia and rarity drive up demand.

Conclusion

The 1966 Dodge Polara is more than just another classic car; it's a slice of Americana that captures the spirit of an age where cars were about more than just getting from point A to point B—they were about making a statement. With its blend of luxury and performance wrapped up in an undeniably stylish package, this vehicle continues to turn heads and stir hearts decades after it first hit the streets.

1966 Dodge Polara 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

1966 Dodge Polara 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

1966 Dodge Polara Hood to Cowl Seal, 51-3/4" Long. Each-CS 20-WHood to Cowl Seal, 51-3/4" Long. Each

1966 Dodge Polara 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

1966 Dodge Polara Roof Rail Seal for Convertibles. 1-1/4" wide X 97" long-FK 13Roof Rail Seal for Convertibles. 1-1/4" wide X 97" long. Each

1966 Dodge Polara 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

1966 Dodge Polara Hood Adjustment Bumper. 1-1/4" O.D-HA 8-AHood Adjustment Bumper. 1-1/4" O.D., 3/4" large hole, 7/16" small hole, 1/2" thick. Each

1966 Dodge Polara Trunk Bumper. Each-HF 62Trunk Bumper. Each

1966 Dodge Polara Flexible Spark Plug Boot, used on Hemi's with power brakes-RP 1-MFlexible Spark Plug Boot, used on Hemi's with power brakes. 4" long, 5/16" upper i.d., 5/8" lower i.d. Each

1966 Dodge Polara Drain Flap on Cowl. Each-RP 900-ADrain Flap on Cowl. Each

1966 Dodge Polara Drain Flap on Cowl. 3-11/16" x 1-7/8". Each-RP 900-BDrain Flap on Cowl. 3-11/16" x 1-7/8". Each

1966 Dodge Polara Molded Roof Rail Seals, for 2-Door Hardtop without Post-RR 4001-CMolded Roof Rail Seals, for 2-Door Hardtop without Post. Pair R&L

1966 Dodge Polara Ashtray Bumper. 9/16" Long. Each-SB 120Ashtray Bumper. 9/16" Long. Each

1966 Dodge Polara 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

1966 Dodge Polara Lower Steering Column Seal. Each-SC 63Lower Steering Column Seal. Each

1966 Dodge Polara Trunk Seal-TK 64-A/18Trunk Seal. For cars with flat (not D-shaped) trunk seal end profile. Each

1966 Dodge Polara 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

1966 Dodge Polara Flocked Glass Run Channel-WC 33-96Flocked Glass Run Channel. For models with framed side glass. 96" Piece. Each

1966 Dodge Polara Door Weather Strip to Inside Panel Clip-WF 7-DDoor Weather Strip to Inside Panel Clip. Made of white nylon, 3/8" long. Each

1966 Dodge Polara Suspension bumper. '62-up Mopar A-, B- and C-body-XB 1Suspension bumper. '62-up Mopar A-, B- and C-body. Fits over the rear axle. Each.