The 1967 Dodge Coronet 440 you see here is a unique piece of muscle car history, purportedly built by a Chrysler engineer in 1977 specifically for Super Stock Racing. This rare build not only stands out for its performance but also for the engineering expertise that went into its creation. Fred Lyons, a Chrysler engineer, designed this car with a meticulous attention to detail that's evident throughout, from the fiberglass deck lid to the race-ready modifications under the hood.
At the heart of this Coronet lies a 426 HEMI V8, bored .060 over to 444 cubic inches. Built by Dean Nicopolis Racing, this engine is equipped with aluminum rods and a Cross Ram intake topped with dual Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetors. Ignition comes courtesy of a stout MSD set-up, and fuel delivery comes from a large electronic fuel pump. And Dean himself, a member of The Ramchargers racing team, signed the inner fender. Power is transmitted through an A727 Torqueflite automatic transmission that has been fitted with a Turbo Action Cheetah shifter with C02 shifting capabilities.
Notable modifications to the chassis include an altered wheelbase, a re-worked front suspension that's routed through the oil pan, and a narrowed Dana 60 rear axle with 5.38 gears and Strange axles. The car's traction capability is further enhanced with rear coilovers, while Willwood 4-wheel disc brakes bring those high trap speeds to a halt.
Inside, the car maintains a factory dashboard, with black bucket seats outfitted with racing harnesses to keep the driver secure. AutoMeter Ultra-Lite gauges monitor vital systems such as tach, oil pressure, water temp, volts, and brake pressure, and a hood-mounted fuel pressure gauge adds a final touch of function. The driver takes control through a classy, wood-rimmed Grant steering wheel, while an autograph by the late Tom Hoover adorns the passenger-side of the dash.
The car's exterior features a custom white, silver, and black paint scheme with a striking checkered flag pattern on the rear quarters, highlighted by red pin-striping. It's a bold and distinctive look that combines classic muscle car appeal with unique design elements. The car sits on Weld Racing aluminum wheels, wrapped in Mickey Thompson ET Streets in the rear, and Sportsman tires up front for optimal grip.
For safety and structural integrity, a 12-point roll cage was added along with a cockpit-mounted fire extinguisher and a driveshaft loop underneath. And the lightweight design is further reinforced by the use of a fiberglass hood, deck lid, and front bumper, all contributing to the car's overall weight reduction.
Hoover's and Nicopolis' signatures serve as a reminder that this 1967 Dodge Coronet 440 was built with the insight and expertise of those who were deeply involved in Chrysler's performance legacy, making it not only a remarkable machine but also a piece of automotive history that carries the influence of the industry's finest.
Key Highlights
Purportedly built in 1977 by Chrysler engineer Fred Lyons for Super Stock Racing
Engine built by Dean Nicopolis Racing
426 HEMI V8 engine bored .060 over to 444 CI
A727 TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic transmission
Cross Ram intake with dual Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetors
Altered wheelbase for drag racing
Narrowed Dana 60 rear axle with 5.38 gears
Rear coil over shocks
Willwood 4 wheel disc brakes
Turbo Action Cheetah shifter
Weld Racing Wheels (aluminum)
Mickey Thompson tires (ET Street in rear, Sportsman up front)
12 point roll cage
