1966 Dodge Charger
First generation · B-body fastback 1966–1967
Launched as a fastback derivative of the mid-size Coronet on the Chrysler B-body, with a distinctive full-width hidden-headlight grille and a flowing fastback roofline. The 426 Hemi was offered from the start.
Photo: “Dodge Charger (Centropolis Laval 2010)” by Bull-Doser / Wikimedia Commons — Public domain . Cropped to 16:9.
The 1966 model year
Overview
The Dodge Charger debuted for 1966 as a fastback two-door built on the mid-size Chrysler B-body, derived from the Coronet. Its full-width grille with hidden headlights and sweeping fastback roof gave it a futuristic look, and a full-length center console with four bucket seats set it apart inside. The 426 Hemi V8 was available from the start.
Specifications
- Engines
-
- 318 V8
- 361 V8
- 383 V8
- 426 Street Hemi V8
- Body styles
- 2-door fastback
Year over year
What changed
- Launch year of the Dodge Charger as a fastback B-body two-door.
- Hidden-headlight full-width grille and four-bucket-seat interior.
- 426 Street Hemi offered from the first model year.
Living with it
Reliability & ownership notes
- 1960s body-on-frame-era B-body mechanicals; rust, originality, and correct Hemi documentation are the survivor concerns.
Worth knowing
Notable
- The original Charger — a fastback, not yet the 'Coke-bottle' shape it is best known for.
Sources
Other First generation years
Explore the B-body fastback generation → All First generation · B-body fastback years →