Image of 1940 Dodge Series D14, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

Introduction

The 1940 Dodge Series D14 stands as a testament to American automotive resilience and ingenuity, emerging from an era where the world teetered on the brink of monumental change. Born from the assembly lines of Dodge, a division of the Chrysler Corporation, this vehicle encapsulates the transition from pre-war luxury to wartime practicality. Notably, it was one of the last peacetime cars produced before Dodge shifted its focus to manufacturing military vehicles for World War II. The D14 not only served its owners with reliability but also carried the spirit of an epoch that would soon be transformed by global conflict.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1940 Dodge Series D14 boasted a bold, streamlined design that was both elegant and assertive. Its chrome grille, pronounced fenders, and teardrop headlamps were hallmarks of the era's aesthetic preferences. Inside, passengers were greeted with a cabin that prioritized comfort and simplicity, featuring durable materials designed to stand the test of time. Technologically, it was equipped with advanced features for its day, such as a fluid drive semi-automatic transmission that provided smoother gear shifts and reduced driver fatigue.

Color options for the D14 ranged from modest hues to more vibrant tones, with Gunmetal Gray and Dodge Blue being among the popular choices. The vehicle was available in several body styles including two-door coupes, four-door sedans, and convertible models. The four-door Luxury Liner sedan stood out as an iconic choice for its spacious interior and upscale trimmings.

Historical Significance

The 1940 Dodge Series D14's impact on automotive design was subtle yet significant. It represented a bridge between opulent pre-war automobiles and the more utilitarian designs that would follow during wartime production. Its blend of style and practicality set a precedent for future American cars that would prioritize both form and function.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its stylish hood, the Series D14 housed a robust 217.8 cubic inch inline-six engine capable of delivering around 87 horsepower. While top speed figures hovered around 85 mph, it wasn't so much about how fast it could go but how well it performed reliably over time. Drivers often remarked on its sturdy handling over various terrains and conditions, attributing this to its well-engineered suspension system. The driving experience was characterized by a sense of solidity and assurance with the engine's purr serving as a comforting backdrop to journeys long or short.

Ownership Experience

The 1940 Dodge Series D14 served multiple roles throughout its lifetime: from a dependable family car to an elegant showpiece at vintage rallies. Maintenance was relatively straightforward for mechanically inclined owners, with parts being accessible due to Dodge's widespread production at the time.

Fun Facts

This classic car has seen its share of limelight with rare editions occasionally surfacing at auctions. While not known for breaking speed records, it held its own in terms of sales during its production year. Criticisms were few but some pointed out its conservative approach to innovation compared to European counterparts.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1940 Dodge Series D14 is cherished among collectors for its historical significance and pre-war charm. With an estimated production run in the tens of thousands across all body styles, it's moderately challenging to find in pristine condition. Values can range significantly based on factors such as originality, condition, and history; however, one might expect to see prices anywhere from $10,000 for models in fair condition to upwards of $30,000 or more for concours-quality examples.

Conclusion

The 1940 Dodge Series D14 is more than just a classic car; it's a rolling piece of history that captures the essence of an era on the cusp of transformation. Its legacy endures in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike who appreciate not only its beauty but also its contribution to automotive evolution.

1940 Dodge SERIES D14 Windshield Center Bar Gasket. 20" long. Each-DP 12Windshield Center Bar Gasket. 20" long. Each

1940 Dodge SERIES D14 Gas Filler Grommet. 2-3/4" I.D., 4-1/2" oblong length-GF 30Gas Filler Grommet. 2-3/4" I.D., 4-1/2" oblong length. Each

1940 Dodge SERIES D14 Hood Corners. Fits flat corners-HC 19Hood Corners. Fits flat corners. 80° angle, 1/4" to 3/8" corner radius. 1-3/8" wide. Pair

1940 Dodge SERIES D14 Windshield and Rear Window Seal. Sold by the foot-LP 30-AWindshield and Rear Window Seal. Sold by the foot

1940 Dodge SERIES D14 Door side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal-LP 40-ADoor side seal. Same as LP 40, but for a lighter seal. Fits many domestic passenger cars and trucks. Universal seal for street rods and customs. Used in Cobra kit cars as door weatherstrip. Per foot.

1940 Dodge SERIES D14 Cowl Vent Seal. 4" wide X 18" long. Each-RP 100-QCowl Vent Seal. 4" wide X 18" long. Each

1940 Dodge SERIES D14 Clutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair-RP 31-JClutch and Brake Seals. Replaces OEM #889473. Pair

1940 Dodge SERIES D14 Door Check Rubber Cushion. Each-RP 40-DDoor Check Rubber Cushion. Each

1940 Dodge SERIES D14 Accelerator Rod Grommet-SM 43-BAccelerator Rod Grommet. For accelerator rod through floorboard. Each

1940 Dodge SERIES D14 Front Vent Window Seals. Replaces OEM #761708-9. Pair R&L-WR 2301Front Vent Window Seals. Replaces OEM #761708-9. Pair R&L

1940 Dodge SERIES D14 Rear vent window seals-WR 2301-RRear vent window seals. Fits listed 4-door sedans and limousines with swing-out rear vent windows. May fit some GM models. Replaces OEM# #849153/4. Pair. R&L.