Interesting story about the restoration of the first produced Dart GTS that sat untouched for 30 years. Here is an excerpt from the article: "The most compelling aspect of this specific Dart GTS is its scheduled factory production date of July 30, 1967. Carrying a vehicle identification number ending in the remarkably low sequence of 026, this silver hardtop is strongly believed to be the very first 1968 Dodge Dart GTS ever assembled. In 1967, Dodge turned up the heat even further by introducing the Dart GTS as a very late model year addition, in April. This apex model was initially offered with a massive 383 cubic-inch big-block V8. However, the heavy engine compromised cornering balance. For 1968, engineers perfected the recipe by introducing the high-revving 340 cubic-inch small-block as the standard powerplant. While the 383 big-block remained optional, the perfectly balanced, 275-horsepower 340 engine quickly became the preferred choice for discerning performance enthusiasts. Total 1968 Dart GTS production reached approximately 8,295 units, with around 5,660 leaving the factory equipped with the celebrated 340 engine. The performance delivered was absolutely staggering for the price. The base retail price for a 1968 hardtop was just $3,189, putting serious speed within reach of the working class. Magazines of the day were astounded by the compact vehicle's formidable capabilities. Car and Driver magazine recorded a blazing quarter-mile time of 14.4 seconds at 99 mph. Meanwhile, the editors at Hot Rod magazine achieved a blistering 0-60 mph sprint in exactly 6.0 seconds, cementing its giant-killer reputation. The true beauty of the Dart GTS, however, lay in its mechanical honesty. Owners could easily adjust their ignition timing, rebuild the Carter carburetor, and replace spark plugs with just a shop manual. There were no complex diagnostic codes to clear and no proprietary dealership tools required. It offered the intoxicating scent of high-octane fuel and the deep satisfaction of dirty hands. This beautifully preserved 1968 Dart GTS perfectly embodies this golden age of accessible American performance and hands-on automotive passion that many a gearhead had their teeth cut in." The true beauty of the Dart GTS, however, lay in its mechanical honesty. Owners could easily adjust their ignition timing, rebuild the Carter carburetor, and replace spark plugs with just a shop manual. There were no complex diagnostic codes to clear and no proprietary dealership tools required. It offered the intoxicating scent of high-octane fuel and the deep satisfaction of dirty hands. This beautifully preserved 1968 Dart GTS perfectly embodies this golden age of accessible American performance and hands-on automotive passion that many a gearhead had their teeth cut in." Restoration Began 30 Years Ago, Still Unfinished: 1968 Dodge Dart GTS Is One of the First Ever Made - autoevolution
