1960 Dodge Dart Pioneer Sedan.

New Zealand

These models arrived new in New Zealand. They were all RHD from new. We never used to refer to them as Darts, but as Pioneers, because the only model seen ubiquitously in NZ was the Pioneer. The Seneca and Phoenix versions were not sent to NZ in the 1960 shape. 

This example is typical of the few that remain in NZ. It has no power steering, but with a see through glitter steering wheel who needs extra embellishment! It has suffered a heaterectomy, although the controls are still present. The fan and internal heater bits remain, yet under the hood there is an obviously large space where the heater used to be. To the left of the steering wheel, are the vacuum operated controls for the fresh air vent. This vent is centrally located beneath the dash, in the firewall. The front brakes have been replaced with Chrysler discs. The front universal on the drive shaft has been replaced with a traditional universal. Its engine is a standard 313 V8, linked to a three stage smooth as silk transmission. The Carter carb is standard fare for its day, and has the uncanny ability to make the engine run on even whilst not under load, yet all capacity is available when quenching its thirst. Which, by the way, is remarkably modest in comparison to our modern 4 Litre in-line injected six. As far as I can tell, a coat of black preceded its purple color. It continues to be wholly reliable, and is a tribute to the people who created the old Dinosaur. It gets used as every day transport, and attracts many a double take as it glides on by.