A radical 1968 Dodge Dart Hardtop nicknamed “Blow Dart” is set to headline Mecum Kansas City on December 6, 2025, bringing one of the most ambitious modern Mopar builds to the auction stage. Created by LexiJ, Inc./RMR Dreamcars of Hudson, Florida, the car represents roughly 2,000 hours of fabrication and engineering—an effort that pushed the compact A-body Dodge far beyond anything its original designers could have imagined.
The Dart debuted publicly as a feature vehicle at the 2016 SEMA Show, and despite nearly a decade passing since its appearance, the build still looks current. At its core is a 6.2-liter HELLCAT V8 fitted with a Kenne Bell supercharger, elevating the output into territory usually reserved for late-model performance cars. Power flows through a 4L80E automatic transmission with overdrive, tuned by House of Boost in Belton, Missouri, giving the car a balance of raw acceleration and usable drivability not often found in classic restomods.
Supporting the engine is a heavily reworked chassis. A Gerst tubular front cradle paired with coilovers, a Gerst rear suspension and a Strange 9-inch rear end all work together to stabilize the Dart’s considerable horsepower. Wilwood four-wheel disc brakes provide the stopping force, and a power rack-and-pinion setup sharpens the steering response. The combination ensures that the dramatic power upgrade is matched by equally capable handling and braking systems.
The interior blends vintage Mopar cues with modern components. Rallye bucket seats anchor the cabin, while a Dakota Digital dash and Flaming River waterfall steering wheel update the driving environment. A Kilduff Lightning Rod shifter adds an unmistakable retro performance touch, and Vintage Air climate control rounds out the comfort features. The upholstery and interior trim carry the same level of craftsmanship seen in the mechanical build.
On the exterior, the Dart retains its recognizable 1968 lines but incorporates unexpected details. The chrome bumpers have been hydro-dipped to resemble carbon fiber, lending a contemporary contrast without abandoning the original design language. Custom, one-off wheels add to its concept-car stance, ensuring the car stands apart even among heavily modified classics.
The 1968 model year brought significant regulatory changes to the Dodge Dart, but none foreshadowed a transformation like this. As Blow Dart prepares to cross the block in Kansas City, it stands as a testament to the creativity of modern custom builders and the enduring adaptability of the Mopar A-body platform. For collectors attending Mecum this December, the Dart is likely to be one of the most memorable builds on display.