1964 Dodge 440 VIN Verification

Introduction
The 1964 Dodge 440 is a classic full-size muscle car from the golden era of American automotive design. Known for its sleek yet aggressive styling, the 440 was part of Dodge’s B-body lineup and offered a blend of performance and comfort. While it wasn’t the top-tier performance model in Dodge’s catalog, it was a solid choice for drivers who wanted power and style in an everyday car.

History & Origins
Introduced in the early 1960s, the Dodge 440 was positioned between the entry-level Dodge 330 and the higher-end Polara. It was available as a sedan, coupe, or station wagon. By 1964, Dodge had embraced the muscle car trend, and while the 440 was less performance-focused than some of its siblings, it still played a role in Dodge’s rise in the performance market. This model year saw design updates that gave the car a more modern and streamlined look.

Engine & Performance Options
The 1964 Dodge 440 offered a variety of engine options, allowing buyers to tailor performance to their needs:

• 225 cubic-inch Slant-6: The base engine, producing around 145 hp. It was known more for reliability than performance.
• 318 cubic-inch V8: A small-block engine offering 230 hp, providing a balance between efficiency and power.
• 361 cubic-inch V8: Producing 265 hp, this was a more performance-oriented option for those wanting extra muscle.
• 383 cubic-inch V8: Offering up to 330 hp, this engine was the top-tier performance choice for the 440, giving it true muscle car credentials.

Transmissions included 3-speed manual, 4-speed manual, and 3-speed automatic options. The higher-powered V8s gave the 440 solid acceleration and strong performance, though the model wasn’t as race-oriented as Dodge’s higher-end Polara or Charger.

Design & Features
The exterior design of the 1964 Dodge 440 was sleek and straightforward, with a boxy, muscular profile typical of early 1960s American cars. It had a clean grille design, chrome accents, and bold tailfins that were toned down compared to earlier models. The coupe and sedan variants had a long, low stance that emphasized its length and gave it a commanding road presence.

Inside, the Dodge 440 was relatively simple, with bench seating and a straightforward dashboard layout. The materials used were durable but not luxurious, making it clear that the 440 was positioned as a practical yet stylish vehicle. However, optional upgrades like power steering, power brakes, and air conditioning added a touch of modernity to the driving experience.

Trim Levels & Variants
The Dodge 440 was available in multiple body styles, catering to different buyer needs:

• 2-door coupe
• 4-door sedan
• 4-door station wagon

Each offered a different level of practicality, but the overall styling remained consistent across the lineup. Buyers could customize their vehicles with various performance and convenience options, which made the 440 adaptable to both family life and muscle car culture.

Safety & Technology
Safety technology in the 1964 Dodge 440 was minimal by modern standards, as seatbelts were not yet mandatory, and features like airbags didn’t exist. It did come with basic safety features like drum brakes all around and a solid, heavy chassis that provided decent protection in the event of an accident. Power brakes and power steering were available as optional upgrades, improving handling and drivability.

As for technology, the 440 was relatively barebones, offering an AM radio as standard, with optional upgrades like a push-button automatic transmission, which was a novelty at the time.

Fuel Economy & Efficiency
Fuel economy was not a strong suit for the 1964 Dodge 440, especially when equipped with one of the larger V8 engines. Depending on the engine, it averaged around 10-15 MPG, with the larger V8s consuming more fuel. However, this was typical for full-size American cars of the era, especially those designed with performance in mind.

Market Comparison
In 1964, the Dodge 440 competed with other full-size American cars, such as:

• Chevrolet Impala: A direct competitor, offering similar performance options and more luxury features.
• Ford Galaxie 500: Another popular full-size option, offering a mix of performance and comfort, with a bit more refinement.
• Plymouth Fury: A sibling within Chrysler’s lineup, the Fury offered similar styling and performance characteristics.

The Dodge 440 stood out for its straightforward design and the variety of engine options, making it a solid choice for buyers looking for power and style at a reasonable price.

Pricing
The base price for the 1964 Dodge 440 started around $2,500, depending on body style and engine choice. With optional upgrades, prices could rise significantly, particularly for models equipped with the larger V8 engines. Today, the 440 has become a sought-after classic, with well-maintained or restored examples selling for $25,000 to $50,000, depending on condition and originality.

Notable Awards & Accolades
While the 440 didn’t win specific awards during its production, it contributed to Dodge’s reputation for building powerful, dependable vehicles during the muscle car era. Its simplicity and performance have made it a favorite among classic car enthusiasts, particularly those looking for a customizable and affordable muscle car.

Conclusion
The 1964 Dodge 440 is a prime example of early muscle car culture in the U.S. With its range of powerful V8 engines and simple yet stylish design, it offers a balance of performance and practicality. While it may not have the cachet of higher-end models like the Polara or Charger, the 440 remains a beloved classic for collectors and car enthusiasts alike, offering plenty of customization potential and a window into 1960s American automotive history.

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