Exterior interest has been enhanced in the new models by the use of body moldings to provide a lower and longer look to the car. On the Dart and Dart 270 series, these moldings are anodized aluminum, while the GT cars utilize stainless steel as well as chrome die castings. Grille, hood, bumper and rear decks have been changed to fit the new wider styling trend.
The new Dodge Dart models were previewed here today by automotive writers and radio and television newsmen from across the country. The cars will be introduced to the public on September 23. Other highlights of the 1965 models include buffable acrylic enamels in brighter metallic colors, a steering column gear selector, an optional center console, a high-performance 273-cubic-inch V-8 engine and an integrated air conditioning-heating system.
New grille openings circle the headlights, incorporating the entire front end into a unified look. This brighter appearance has been carried to the rear end with a higher use of chrome to emphasize width. Oval taillamps further broaden the appearance.
In the Dart GT an optional all-vinyl roof is offered for the first time. New stamped stainless steel wheel covers are optional to all except the GT on which they are standard. Convertibles have a new roof profile with a sharper line to the rear window.
Interior changes include instrumentation, seat fabrics, colors, horn rings, dash panels, steering wheel and ornamentation.
The instruments are larger for 1965 and are lighted from the sides. Heater controls are integrated into this new panel. A three-spoke simulated wood steering wheel is optional.
Seats and interior door panels are redesigned. Body cloth features 100 percent nylon face and is textured for the look and feel of luxury. Station wagons use heavy-duty vinyl patterned in the same manner as the cloth fabrics. For the GT series, all-vinyl is standard.
There are 15 exterior colors and 21 interior trim combinations. One of the features of the GT is the introduction of gold hue with white trim and gold colored components.
A factory-installed air conditioning system now combines both heating and cooling functions in one system. The controls are integrated into the instrument panel.
Four engines are available. A Slant-Six, 170-cubic-inch, is standard. Optional is a Slant-Six with 225-cubic-inch displacement.
For the first time, two V-8 versions are optional. Both are 273-cubic-inch engines, one with a single two-barrel carburetor and one with a four-barrel carburetor. The new four-barrel version features improved acceleration and a longer duration higher-lift camshaft, nonsilenced air cleaner, a new intake manifold, a special exhaust system and domed pistons to boost compression ratios.
New distributor caps, modified spark plugs and longer life electrical components have been added for improved performance and durability.