Muscle car....?????

[Pops1967GTX]

62 Plymouth Fury with a 413 Max Wedge

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[Pops1967GTX]

1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge: Unleashing the Power of Muscle​

1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge
In 1962, a new era of muscle cars emerged, radiating brilliance and power. Chrysler led the way with their groundbreaking Max Wedge lineup, introducing the world to the fusion of unitized-body construction and the high-performance ram-tuned dual-carbureted 413 CI engine. Among these legends was the Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge, a remarkable vehicle that holds a significant place in automotive history.

1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge
The First Super Stock Max Wedge with Manual TransmissionAccording to the esteemed Chrysler Registry and the meticulous documentation by Darrell Davis, this specific Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge holds a groundbreaking distinction—it was the first Super Stock model equipped with a manual transmission. The car’s odometer displays a mere 6,593 miles and has undergone a meticulous restoration process to return it to its original specifications. Notably, the engine has been upgraded, boasting a dyno-proven power output exceeding 500 HP.

1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge
Unleashing the Power of the 413 CI V-8 EngineThe 1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge was powered by the formidable 413 CI V-8 engine. This was the first iteration of Chrysler’s renowned ram induction system, featuring a cross-ram intake manifold meticulously designed to optimize engine efficiency. The engine’s performance was further enhanced by the utilization of cast-iron header-style manifolds, which were rarely preserved but featured in this exceptional vehicle. Dale Reed of California refreshed the engine around 300 miles ago, ensuring its optimal performance. The correct Carter AFB carburetors reside beneath dual black air cleaners, accentuated by carefully placed decals.

1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge

1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge
A Unique Manual Transmission ExperienceOne of the distinctive aspects of this Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge is its manual transmission. Unlike its automatic counterparts, this car delivers a unique driving experience through its floor-mounted shifter, allowing the driver to truly feel the power at their fingertips. Paired with a full aftermarket exhaust equipped with cutouts and the robust 8 ¾ Chrysler differential, this Max Wedge offers an exhilarating ride for those who crave the thrill of the open road.

1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge
Captivating Style and AuthenticityThe exterior of this Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge embodies the spirit of the era. Finished in captivating light blue paint, it exudes a timeless charm. The interior features a complementary blue cloth-and-vinyl combination, while the white-and-blue two-tone trim adds an elegant touch. The front and rear bench seats provide comfort, and the radio delete plate pays homage to the car’s performance-focused nature. Notably, it features a knee-knocker S-W column-mounted tachometer and a beautifully presented trio of rubber pedals. The car’s attention to detail is evident throughout, with the inclusion of circa-1962 chrome fonts, single-lens tail lamps, and OEM steel wheels adorned with poverty-type hubcaps.

1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge

1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge
Provenance and DocumentationAccompanying this Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge is a wealth of provenance and documentation that adds to its allure. It includes the original OEM IBM punch card and build sheet, which serve as a testament to its authenticity. Additionally, the window sticker provides insight into its original specifications, while the dyno sheet confirms its impressive horsepower rating. Vintage photos capture the car’s early years when it was part of a famous drag car collection, showcasing its illustrious past.
1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge
1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge
ConclusionThe 1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge stands as a testament to the golden age of muscle cars. With its groundbreaking manual transmission configuration, powerful 413 CI V-8 engine, and captivating style, it represents the pinnacle of Mopar’s storied performance heritage. Meticulously restored to its original glory, this Max Wedge allows enthusiasts to experience a bygone era’s raw power and timeless charm.
FAQs:How many miles does the 1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge have?The odometer of the 1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge reads 6,593 miles.Who documented the Chrysler Registry for this particular car?The meticulous documentation of the Chrysler Registry for this car was done by Darrell Davis.Has the engine of the 1962 Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge been upgraded?Yes, the engine of this Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge has been upgraded to a dyno-proven 500-plus HP.What is the significance of the 413 CI V-8 engine in this car?The 413 CI V-8 engine in this car was the first to receive Chrysler’s shortened version of ram induction, known as the cross-ram intake. It maximizes engine efficiency and pairs it with rarely preserved cast-iron header-style manifolds.What documentation and provenance come with this Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge?This Plymouth Savoy Max Wedge comes with various documentation, including the OEM IBM punch card, build sheet, window sticker, dyno sheet confirming horsepower rating, and vintage photos of its early years as part of a famous drag car collection.

 

[Ron H]

In 1962, a new era of muscle cars emerged, radiating brilliance and power.

Didn’t hear huh? The 'first' muscle car was the ’64 GTO. Yeah, I don’t believe it either, despite being a GTO fan having one back when.

 

[Pops1967GTX]

 

[Jerry Hall]

62, the first real muscle cars. They didn't have to be called such then, but they were.

 

[Coelacanth]

How about a reverse take? About a month ago, I read a news article about a stolen Hellcat or something that was trashed into a house, it was referred to as a "sports car".

 

[Photon440]

How about a reverse take? About a month ago, I read a news article about a stolen Hellcat or something that was trashed into a house, it was referred to as a "sports car".

"sporty" would be a better term.

 

[Pops1967GTX]

"DART 440 HANDLES LIKE A PERFECTLY SET-UP RACE CAR"​

Motor Trend -1962 March

 

[Armyvet25]

=

 

[Pops1967GTX]

interesting information

Pontiac 421 engine
Pontiac 421 engine was a high-performance big-block V8 introduced in 1961, originally developed for NASCAR and drag racing before becoming available in production cars. Part of Pontiac’s “Super Duty” program, the 421 shared its architecture with the 389 and later 428 engines but featured a larger bore and stroke—4.09-inch bore and 4.00-inch stroke—for a total displacement of 421 cubic inches (6.9 liters). It was designed to deliver strong low-end torque and top-end power, making it ideal for both competition and street performance.
Early 421 engines were offered in limited production high-performance models with dual quad carburetors and heavy-duty internals, producing up to 405 horsepower in Super Duty trim. By the mid-1960s, Pontiac made the 421 available in full-size cars like the Catalina, Bonneville, and Grand Prix in both performance and high-compression street versions. It was a key part of Pontiac's muscle car legacy, laying the groundwork for future icons like the GTO. The 421 was phased out by 1967 in favor of the 428, but it remains highly respected among Pontiac enthusiasts for its torque-rich character and competition pedigree.

 

[33 IMP]

1962 421 super duty Catalina's with an aluminum front end were bad mf'ers. Only a couple hundred pounds heavier than the 413 max cars. Dual four barrels on those 421s if I remember right. Quite a bit quicker than the aluminum front 409 horse 409s, and the three-duece 406 fords.

 

[33 IMP]

The true Bad Boys were the 63 Tempests (including a wagon or two) with the super duty 421s and the full size poncho rearends swapped in.(real 63 tempests used a wimpy transaxle, rubber driveshaft, and independent rear). I think there were only a few made (less than ten?) and immediately banned from super stock, running A/FX..
Precurser of the Thunderbolt Fords, and way, WAY faster than the GTO ever was.

 

[Ron H]

Yeah, those SD’s were beasts, underrated, with some goodies in the trunk the dealer could install. Bud of my elder brother and him, dropped one of those 421’s he got from a wreck in his ’66 Lemans leaving the original motor badging on it. He surprised those who took the bait. Another guy we knew had the real-deal totaling it one night being drunk.

Coming from a Pontiac family, owning some five GTO’s, two ‘65’s, two ‘67’s, and a ’69 Ram Air IV (non-Judge) took some chit from my brother when buying my 1st mopar. Lol, who wouldn’t like a ’70 Cuda vert 4sp? My mother hated the color. Before that I had a ’67 GTO vert in HS with every option available sure wish I still had. Haven’t seen one since. My brother had a ’67 then, a post exact opposite of mine, NO options, just like he wanted and put tri-carbs on it. Nope bro, won’t race ya, I knew there would be no contest. Those memories are priceless.

 

[33 IMP]

Yeah, those SD’s were beasts, underrated, with some goodies in the trunk the dealer could install. Bud of my elder brother and him, dropped one of those 421’s he got from a wreck in his ’66 Lemans leaving the original motor badging on it. He surprised those who took the bait. Another guy we knew had the real-deal totaling it one night being drunk.

Coming from a Pontiac family, owning some five GTO’s, two ‘65’s, two ‘67’s, and a ’69 Ram Air IV (non-Judge) took some chit from my brother when buying my 1st mopar. Lol, who wouldn’t like a ’70 Cuda vert 4sp? My mother hated the color. Before that I had a ’67 GTO vert in HS with every option available sure wish I still had. Haven’t seen one since. My brother had a ’67 then, a post exact opposite of mine, NO options, just like he wanted and put tri-carbs on it. Nope bro, won’t race ya, I knew there would be no contest. Those memories are priceless.

So, what was the color on the Cuda?
I bought a 69 A12 in bahama yellow. First time my dad saw it, he said boy is that color ugly! Is that baby-ship brown? (only he didn't say "ship")
He was color blind, so I let it go. I'm really fond of Bahama yellow after all these years.

 

[440 4 speed]

So, what was the color on the Cuda?
I bought a 69 A12 in bahama yellow. First time my dad saw it, he said boy is that color ugly! Is that baby-ship brown? (only he didn't say "ship")
He was color blind, so I let it go. I'm really fond of Bahama yellow after all these years.

One of the sayings here was ship brindle brown.

 

[Cojohnso1]

These are VERY good counter examples of muscle car description. But the Max Wedge Savoy/Belvedere. The 421 Super Duty Catalina does differ from what I believe is the first true muscle car of the 1964 GTO. And that's being there were lower performance options. Hell, they had 6 cyl 4-door options for those cars. Not the GTO. It was muscle or you buy a different model. That's true with RoadRunner/GTX. Superbee/Charger. Chevelle SS. Oldsmobile 442. To name a few.

Of course there are always exceptions. And considerations. But in the "Purist" point of view? It's my opinion on the subject "What is a Muscle Car?"

 

[Ray70Chrg]

Is anyone aware that this tread is 14 1/2 years old and there is no definite answer to the original question. It started on 2/6/2011 and I just finished reading all 7 pages in the last 1/2 hour.