Dodge Polara
Full-size Dodge with race-car roots — the Max Wedge cars were the terror of the drag strip.
The Polara was Dodge's full-size performance flagship and the vehicle that carried the Max Wedge 426 engine in 1962–64 — the factory drag racing engine that preceded the street HEMI. The Max Wedge Polaras were purpose-built weapons; street versions with the 440 and HEMI in the late 1960s continued the performance tradition in a more civilized package.
History
The 1962–64 Polara 500 with the Stage I, Stage II, and Stage III 426 Max Wedge was Dodge's NHRA factory experimental entry. These engines made 415–425 hp on 11:1 compression, or 420–425 hp on the factory-optional 13.5:1 race compression. The Max Wedge was designed exclusively for drag racing — its exhaust ports exited upward for short header runs. These cars dominated A/FX and B/FX classes.
After the 426 HEMI street engine arrived in 1966, the Polara received a 440 Magnum and HEMI option in the full-size body. The 1969–70 Polara 500 convertible with HEMI is exceptionally rare — HEMI power in a full-size open car. Later Polaras (1971–73) grew softer as the performance era ended.
Notable Versions
Max Wedge 426 (1962–64)
The factory drag racing engine. Stage I (415 hp) through Stage III. Purpose-built for the strip.
Polara 500 Convertible (1969–70)
440 or HEMI in a full-size open car. Extremely rare and undervalued.
Custom 880 (1962)
The premium full-size Dodge, sharing the Polara platform with luxury trim.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
Max Wedge engines are irreplaceable
Original Max Wedge installations are exceptionally rare. Verify the engine number against factory documentation before any purchase.
Full-size rust is extensive
Large body panels, extensive floor area, and complex trunk structure provide ample rust opportunity. Budget generously for metal work.
HEMI convertibles are ultra-rare
Full-size HEMI convertibles are among the most rare American performance cars. Values rival the Charger and Challenger HEMI cars.
Quick Specs
- Engine options
- 225 Slant Six, 318–440 V8, 426 Max Wedge, 426 HEMI
- Horsepower
- 145–425 hp
- Wheelbase
- 122 in
- Transmission
- 4-spd manual, TorqueFlite automatic
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
Shop Parts
Find Dodge Polara parts on eBay
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Bring These to Your Inspection
A few inexpensive tools that catch what a walk-around alone won't
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Compression Tester Kit
Checks cylinder compression to catch worn rings or valve issues before you buy.
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OBD2 Code Reader
Reads check-engine codes the seller may not have mentioned — plug in before you even pop the hood.
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Magnetic Paint Thickness Tester
A magnet pulls weaker over filler/bondo than bare metal — a quick way to spot hidden bodywork.
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Telescoping Inspection Mirror & Light Set
See up into wheel wells and behind components without crawling underneath.
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Dodge Polara For Sale
2 listings currently available
