Dodge’s first D-500 model debuted at the start of the 1956 model year. The origin of the name is a bit debatable, as it suggests the Indianapolis 500, but the Dodge Indy 500 pace cars and series of replicas were all 1954 models. It has also been opined that 500 was the number of cars to be built for acceptance as a production model. Confusing the matter is the crossed-checkered-flag medallion placed on the cars. Regardless, the D-500 package, available on the Royal Lancer hardtop coupe and convertible, comprised a high performance V-8 (260 or 276 brake horsepower, 315 cubic inch Hemi), suspension and drivetrain parts drawn from Chrysler and DeSoto, a larger exhaust and special ornamentation. Cars were given distinctive D-500 serial numbers. The package was extended to Coronet two-doors and later, without the heavy-duty suspension, to all models. Other versions of the D-500 engine ranged from 325 to 354 to 361 and 383 cubic inches from the 19575 to 1959 period.

For 1960, there were two D-500s, a 361-cubic inch, dual four-barrel wedge engine making 310 brake horsepower and a cross ram 383 wedge developing 330 brake horsepower. The cross ram placed two four-barrels on opposite sides of the engine compartment, which were inducted through 30-inch tuned “ram tubes” that gave the engine extra boost.

This black Polara convertible is a rust-free Nevada car that the owner purchased from an elderly gentleman who owned the D-500 since 1963. It has been treated to a restoration and has the coveted cross ram 383, pushbutton TorqueFlite three-speed automatic, power steering, power brakes, whitewalls, factory hubcaps, excellent brightwork and AM radio with power antenna. It is also equipped with power seats that are beautiful, leather and recently redone. The solid lifter cam engine has recently been rebuilt and is reported as very strong and responsive, but behaves tamely about town.