Image of 1971 Dodge Polara, sourced from m.youtube.com , Image Link.

1971 Dodge Polara: A Forgotten Giant of the American Road

The 1971 Dodge Polara stands as a testament to an era when size and power ruled the American highways. Born from the ambitious design tables of Chrysler Corporation, this full-sized automobile encapsulated the essence of early 70s automotive excess. With its bold lines and commanding presence, the Polara was a vehicle that reflected the confidence of its time, while also marking the twilight of the unrestricted American car industry before the fuel crises and emissions regulations changed everything.

Unique among its peers for its fuselage styling, the '71 Polara was a car that could be spotted blocks away, thanks to its distinctive loop bumper that wrapped around the grille and headlights—a feature that became a conversation starter and remains a memorable design hallmark.

Design and Innovation: The Look of Luxury and Power

The exterior of the 1971 Dodge Polara was nothing short of striking. Its long hood and expansive trunk were complemented by a broad stance, giving it an imposing silhouette. The vehicle's design was characterized by a sweeping curve from front to rear, known as "fuselage" styling, which was intended to give it an aerodynamic appearance. Inside, passengers were treated to a spacious cabin with plush seating and an array of luxury options for the time, including air conditioning and power windows.

Materials ranged from durable fabrics to rich vinyls and leathers in higher trims. Technological features such as optional cruise control were advanced for its day. Color options varied widely, with hues like Gunmetal Gray and B5 Blue proving popular among buyers. The Polara came in several body styles including a two-door hardtop, four-door sedan, four-door hardtop, and a station wagon. The most iconic was arguably the hardtop with its lack of B-pillars, offering an unobstructed side view when windows were down.

Historical Significance: The End of an Era

The 1971 Dodge Polara may not have revolutionized automotive technology or design, but it did represent one of the final expressions of unbridled American automotive ambition before new regulations transformed car manufacturing. Its sheer size and V8 power were hallmarks soon to be curtailed, making it a symbol of the end of an era in car design.

Performance and Handling: A Smooth Operator with Muscle

Underneath its expansive hood lay a range of V8 engines, with the top-tier 440 cubic inch Big Block providing formidable thrust. Top speed was respectable for its class and weight, while acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in figures that would surprise many modern drivers considering the vehicle's size. On the road, the Polara's ride was smooth; its weight helped it glide over imperfections with ease. Drivers often remarked on the quiet hum of its engine—a contrast to the roar typical of muscle cars—and how it provided a sense of detachment from the road's chaos.

Ownership Experience: From Daily Driving to Showpiece

The '71 Polara served various roles from family hauler to highway cruiser. Maintenance is straightforward for those familiar with classic Mopar vehicles, though some parts can be scarce due to lower production numbers compared to other models. Reliability is typical for cars of this period—robust mechanicals but requiring regular attention.

Fun Facts: The Polara's Unique Place in History

While not as celebrated as some contemporaries, Polaras have had their share of limelight—appearing in movies and owned by notable personalities. They never set speed records but did enjoy strong sales in their day. Criticisms often centered on fuel consumption—a common trait for full-sized vehicles of this era.

Collector's Information: Rarity and Value Today

Today's collector market sees fewer '71 Polaras than more mainstream classics. Production numbers were substantial but not vast; estimates suggest tens of thousands across all styles were made. Values vary widely based on condition and originality; a well-preserved or restored Polara can fetch anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 or more depending on specific factors like engine options and historical significance.

Conclusion: Celebrating an Overshadowed Classic

The 1971 Dodge Polara may not be the first name that comes to mind when discussing classic American cars from the early '70s, but it deserves recognition for what it represents—the peak and impending transformation of American auto design. For enthusiasts who appreciate its unique style and comfortable cruising capabilities, it remains a cherished piece of automotive history.

1971 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

1971 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

1971 Dodge Polara Door Bumper. 5/8" wide. Made from extrusion. Each-DB 53Door Bumper. 5/8" wide. Made from extrusion. Each

1971 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

1971 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

1971 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

1971 Dodge Polara Shift Boot, for Pistol Grip Shifter-RP 34-MShift Boot, for Pistol Grip Shifter. 7-1/4" X 5-1/4" at base. Each

1971 Dodge Polara Drain Flap on Cowl. Each-RP 900-ADrain Flap on Cowl. Each

1971 Dodge Polara Trunk Seal-TK 64-A/18Trunk Seal. For cars with flat (not D-shaped) trunk seal end profile. Each

1971 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