Vehicle Overview
This 1965 Dodge Coronet 500 has undergone a comprehensive restoration and professional performance build centered around a documented 493 cubic-inch stroker V8 producing 648 horsepower on the engine dyno. The engine build and restoration are extensively documented, and the car has been upgraded throughout with components selected to complement its substantial increase in performance. Finished in bright red over a black bucket seat interior, it remains true to the character of the Coronet 500 while offering performance well beyond its original specifications.
Power comes from a professionally built 493 cubic-inch stroker V8 based on Chrysler's legendary 440 engine platform. The engine features aluminum cylinder heads, a single-plane aluminum intake manifold, 1⅞-inch primary tube headers, MSD ignition, billet distributor, Milodon oil pan, and a Be Cool aluminum radiator. Backing the engine is Chrysler's proven TorqueFlite 727 automatic transmission, equipped with an auxiliary transmission oil cooler and driving through the durable 8¾-inch rear axle. Every major component has been selected to create a dependable, high-performance drivetrain capable of handling substantial horsepower while remaining enjoyable on the street.
The chassis has been upgraded to match the engine's performance with SSBC four-wheel disc brakes, adjustable drag shocks, subframe connectors, driveshaft safety loops, and a free-flowing 3½-inch dual exhaust system with an H-pipe. Hood-mounted auxiliary gauges for oil pressure, water temperature, and voltage allow the driver to monitor the engine during spirited driving while maintaining the purposeful appearance expected of a serious street-performance Mopar.
The Coronet 500's bucket seats, center console, and black interior remain an inviting place to spend time behind the wheel, while the extensive documentation accompanying the restoration and engine build provides confidence in the quality of the work performed. Beautifully finished, professionally engineered, and mechanically sorted, this Coronet offers the kind of performance that few mid-1960s muscle cars can match while retaining the unmistakable character of a classic Mopar.
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Identification
VIN: 100000000016744WI
1965 Dodge Coronet 500 Hardtop
Body & Exterior
Bright Red Exterior
Coronet 500 Trim
Excellent Cosmetic Presentation
Interior
Black Bucket Seat Interior
Factory Center Console
Hood-Mounted Oil Pressure, Water Temperature, and Voltmeter Gauges
Engine
Professionally Built 493 Cubic-Inch Stroker V8
Based on Chrysler 440 Engine Block
Dyno Tested at 648 Horsepower
Aluminum Racing Cylinder Heads
Single-Plane Aluminum Intake Manifold
1⅞-Inch Primary Tube Headers
MSD Ignition System
Billet Distributor
Milodon Performance Oil Pan
Be Cool Aluminum Radiator
Transmission
TorqueFlite 727 Automatic Transmission
Auxiliary Transmission Oil Cooler
Rear Axle
Chrysler 8¾-Inch Rear Differential
Suspension, Brakes & Chassis
SSBC Four-Wheel Disc Brake Conversion
Three-Way Adjustable Drag Shocks
Subframe Connectors
Driveshaft Safety Loops
Exhaust
3½-Inch Dual Exhaust System
H-Pipe Crossover
Documentation
Extensive Restoration Documentation
Extensive Engine Build Documentation
Condition
Professionally Restored
Professionally Engineered Performance Build
Outstanding Cosmetic Presentation
Mechanically Sorted
Ready for Street, Show, or Weekend Cruising
Model History
Introduced on Chrysler's B-body platform, the 1965 Dodge Coronet 500 represented the top trim level of the Coronet lineup, combining sporty styling with upgraded interior appointments that included bucket seats, a center console, and additional brightwork. Its clean body lines and lightweight construction also made it an ideal platform for performance enthusiasts, a reputation that continues today.
While factory high-performance Coronets equipped with Max Wedge or Hemi engines remain among the most collectible Mopars ever built, professionally engineered street-performance cars have developed a loyal following of their own. Modern engine technology, improved braking systems, and carefully selected suspension upgrades allow these cars to deliver performance far beyond what was possible in the 1960s while preserving the styling and driving character that define the muscle car era.
This Coronet 500 reflects that philosophy. Built with quality components, supported by extensive documentation, and engineered as a complete package rather than simply a high-horsepower engine installation, it offers the performance of a modern muscle car while retaining the unmistakable presence of one of Dodge's most attractive mid-1960s B-body models.
