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1973 Dodge Coronet: A Stalwart of American Muscle

The 1973 Dodge Coronet stands as a testament to the era of muscle cars that roared through the streets of America. Born from the assembly lines of the Chrysler Corporation, this model was a continuation of the Coronet's legacy that began in the late 1940s. In an age where automotive design was as much about performance as it was about style, the '73 Coronet carved out its place in history. Notably, this was one of the last years before new regulations would change the face of muscle cars forever, making it a significant piece of automotive history.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1973 Dodge Coronet boasted a robust and commanding presence, with its long hood and distinctive body lines that exuded power and stability. Inside, passengers were greeted with a functional and straightforward interior, where comfort blended with durability. The materials used ranged from hard-wearing fabrics to vinyl, reflecting the utilitarian yet stylish approach of the time. Technologically, it featured advancements such as optional electronic ignition, which was cutting-edge for its era. Color options varied widely, with hues like "Top Banana" yellow and "Plum Crazy" purple being among the popular choices that added to its vibrant personality. The Coronet came in various body styles including sedans, wagons, and coupes, but it was perhaps the two-door hardtop that remains most iconic in enthusiasts' hearts.

Historical Significance

The 1973 Dodge Coronet's impact on automotive design was subtle yet significant. It represented a bridge between the high-powered muscle cars of the '60s and the more subdued vehicles that would follow due to stricter emissions standards. Its blend of practicality and performance set a precedent for future family-oriented vehicles that didn't want to sacrifice under-the-hood power for everyday usability.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its hood, the '73 Coronet could be equipped with a range of engines from a modest inline-six to a potent 440 cubic inch V8. While top speeds and acceleration varied depending on the powertrain, V8 models could propel from 0-60 mph in respectable times for their size and era. On the road, drivers appreciated its solid handling characteristics despite its size; it managed bumps with composure while maintaining decent stability in windy conditions. The engine's rumble was unmistakable—a deep growl that resonated with muscle car aficionados.

Ownership Experience

The Dodge Coronet served many roles—from a reliable daily driver to a weekend show car or even as a base for drag racing modifications. Owners found maintenance relatively straightforward thanks to its no-frills design and robust mechanical components. However, like many vehicles of its time, rust could be an issue requiring attention.

Fun Facts

A lesser-known fact about the '73 Coronet is that it shared some underpinnings with police vehicles of the time—adding to its tough-guy reputation. While not known for breaking speed records, it certainly made sales records within its market segment. Criticisms often centered around its size and fuel economy—factors that became increasingly important as the decade progressed.

Collector's Information

Today, finding a 1973 Dodge Coronet can be challenging as many have succumbed to time or have been modified beyond their original specifications. Production numbers were substantial but not overly abundant; thus, intact examples can fetch anywhere from $10,000 for a model in fair condition to upwards of $30,000 or more for pristine or rare variants such as those with high-performance packages or limited production runs.

Conclusion

The 1973 Dodge Coronet may not be the most famous muscle car ever produced, but it encapsulates an era on the cusp of change—a stalwart reminder of American automotive history just before efficiency and regulations would transform industry priorities. For those who own one today or seek to acquire one, it represents more than just a vehicle; it's a piece of nostalgia, roaring down memory lane with every turn of the key.

1973 Dodge Coronet 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

1973 Dodge Coronet 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

1973 Dodge Coronet Hood to Radiator Seal, 51-3/4" Long. Each-CS 20-HHood to Radiator Seal, 51-3/4" Long. Each

1973 Dodge Coronet Hood to Cowl Seal, 48" Long. Each-CS 20-YHood to Cowl Seal, 48" Long. Each

1973 Dodge Coronet Door Bumper. 5/8" wide, made from extrusion. Each-DB 52Door Bumper. 5/8" wide, made from extrusion. Each

1973 Dodge Coronet 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

1973 Dodge Coronet 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

1973 Dodge Coronet Rear Window Louver Hinge Pad-MP 622-ERear Window Louver Hinge Pad. For 2-door coupe with rear louvers. 3-3/8" wide X 1-1/2" long. Each

1973 Dodge Coronet Drain Flap on Cowl. Each-RP 900-ADrain Flap on Cowl. Each

1973 Dodge Coronet Rear Center Hood & Trunk Bumper ('68: Trunk '70-'74: Hood)-SB 125Rear Center Hood & Trunk Bumper ('68: Trunk '70-'74: Hood). 1-1/8" high, 15/16" O.D. Each

1973 Dodge Coronet Trunk Floor Plug. 2-1/8" O.D. Fits 1-3/4" hole-SB 127Trunk Floor Plug. 2-1/8" O.D. Fits 1-3/4" hole. Replaces OEM #2189375. Each

1973 Dodge Coronet Trunk and Body Plug. Fits 1-1/8" hole. Each-SB 127-DTrunk and Body Plug. Fits 1-1/8" hole. Each

1973 Dodge Coronet Trunk and Body Plug. Fits 1-15/16" hole. Each-SB 127-ETrunk and Body Plug. Fits 1-15/16" hole. Each

1973 Dodge Coronet Floor Panel Wire Grommet. Fits 3/4" hole. Each-SM 49Floor Panel Wire Grommet. Fits 3/4" hole. Each

1973 Dodge Coronet License Light Wire Grommet. Each-SM 72License Light Wire Grommet. Each

1973 Dodge Coronet Firewall to Dash Insulation Fastener. Made of black rubber-SM 80-BFirewall to Dash Insulation Fastener. Made of black rubber. 9 to 10 used per car. 3/4" diameter head, 1-5/16" long. Replaces OEM #3720639. Each

1973 Dodge Coronet Trunk seal. 2-door hardtop-TK 56-B/18Trunk seal. 2-door hardtop. '72-'74 Mopar B-body and '73-'76 Mopar A-body. Replaces trunk seals with D-shaped end profile. Each.

1973 Dodge Coronet Trunk Mat-TM 2714Trunk Mat. High quality reproduction, made specific for vehicle. Print on rubber. Each

1973 Dodge Coronet 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

1973 Dodge Coronet Hood Insulation Fastener. Nylon. 1-1/2" Long, 1/2" Wide-WF 5-AHood Insulation Fastener. Nylon. 1-1/2" Long, 1/2" Wide. Each