For sale by auction on Saturday 24thNovember 2012 with Historics at Brooklands, Brooklands Motor Racing Circuit, Weybridge, Surrey.
The D500 was originally intended to be an individual model but that was later changed as the car was introduced late and would not qualify for NASCAR. This was a rare performance model and it was important to have the credentials to back it up. It was based on the Dodge Coronet and, unlike the other Chrysler super cars, the new Dodge Coronet D500 was visually indistinguishable from normal Dodges upon which it was based. The only external clues were discreet, crossed chequered flags and '500' lettering on its lower rear deck to reference the homologation requirements for motorsport at that time.
The D500 was capable of outrunning almost anything it went up against; and it was certainly capable of keeping up with the 300B if properly prepared. The 1956 D500 set or broke a total of 306 standing records on its first time out speaking volumes about Dodge's ability to build a car of this calibre.
The D500 option included a 315cid, V8 with hemispherical heads, a unique camshaft, valve lifters, pushrods, carburettor, ignition, and pistons. With a compression ratio of 9.25:1, four barrel Carter WCFB carburettor and dual point distribution, peak power was 260bhp while torque was 330lb-ft. Sports Car Illustrated said in August 1956; "It is designed from the ground up as a high performance road machine that can be used for commuting to work, for winning its class at the local Drag Strip or for making a top showing in a tough rally or race."
Believed one of only 13 D500 Sierra wagons made in 1956, the D500s were built in such small numbers that it is super rare to find one in this condition, especially one that can do 14 second quarter mile and the first car to do 100mph in the quarter as well as 0-60 in an incredible 8.8 seconds. With just 82,000 recorded miles and an extensive history file included dating right back to 1956, this factory hot rod comes with up-rated transmission, police specification 12" Powerdrum brakes and suspension - an option at the time - and extremely original chrome throughout. The engine itself is a Hemi motor with all associated gauges working as they should.
The bodywork itself is described as very straight with excellent floors and benefits from good paintwork in the correct colour. The rarely configured D500 is on the button, starts first time and drives well. Recent work also includes a rebuilt and balanced propshaft, Pertronix electronic ignition, new plugs, new leads and cap as well as adjusted brakes all round.
A very special piece of MOPAR history.
http://www.historics.co.uk/buying/auctions/2012-11-24/car/dodge-d500.aspx
