The Dodge 880, a short lived model from the 1960s, was born out of a corporate misunderstanding. Chrysler executives mistakenly believed that Chevrolet was downsizing its full size cars, leading to a hasty decision to shorten the wheelbase of Dodge and Plymouth models.
However, this was a premature move, as Chevrolet’s full size cars remained unchanged in 1962. As a result, Dodge and Plymouth found themselves without competitive full-size offerings, causing dealer discontent.
To address this, Chrysler quickly assembled the 880, a makeshift combination of a 1961 Polara front and a 1962 Chrysler Newport rear. Despite its rushed development, the 880 managed to sell over 100,000 units before its discontinuation in 1965.
The 880’s unique design and heritage set it apart from other Dodge models, making it a collectible and interesting vehicle for enthusiasts. Its short production run and the circumstances surrounding its creation have contributed to its relatively low profile, but it remains a testament to Chrysler’s adaptability and innovation during a time of rapid change in the automotive industry.
The 1964 Dodge 880, though not the rarest Mopar of its era, is a scarce sight due to many being abandoned in junkyards and barns. Its exact survival count in 2024 is unknown, but this ex-police version is exceptionally rare. Purchased by YouTube’s “Rocket Restorations,” this 880 spent years off the road, becoming a rust bucket.
Despite this, it’s remarkably well preserved and about to be revived. Originally a California Highway Patrol car, it retains much of its livery and equipment, including fender mounted spotlights and holes for rear flashing lights.
The biggest surprise, however, lies under the hood: a true blue 413 HP engine. This police spec 413 cubic inch V8 High Performance powerplant is a testament to the 880’s original performance capabilities, as police cars were often stripped for their high performance parts after decommissioning.
The 880’s rarity, especially in its ex-police configuration, is a testament to its unique history and the challenges of preserving classic vehicles. Its revival by Rocket Restorations is a significant step in preserving a piece of automotive history that would otherwise have been lost.
