Some of Craig’s fondest memories come from riding in the back of his uncle’s 1969 Dodge Dart. The passing scenery, the rumble of the engine, and the way the car felt on the road sparked a dream that stayed with him.

1969 Dodge Dart 

Photos by Carson Montague

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Ten years ago, that dream became reality when Craig bought the Dodge Dart from his uncle. From the start, he knew the car wouldn’t remain stock. His goal was to unlock its full potential and build a modern, high-performance version of the car he remembered fondly from childhood.

In the engine bay, Craig dropped a Hellcat Redeye crate motor, paired with an ATI Performance Turbo 400 transmission. A Chrysler 8¾ rearend, well-suited for both street driving and racing and a 3.73 rear gear deliver both on the hard launches on the road or at the drag strip.

“I did everything myself, including the paint and bodywork,” Craig said. “I’ve been an automotive painter for 10 years.”

Surprisingly, the most challenging part for the automotive painter wasn’t the drivetrain, but choosing the colour.

“I originally painted the Dart in a Corvette colour over seven years ago, but I was never happy with how it turned out,” he explained. “That’s when I decided to go with the black it wears today.”

After a decade of ownership, Craig is happy with the build and has no plans to start another project.

“This is it for me,” he said. “I see it as an ongoing build that will continue to evolve.”

Ten years on, it’s clear Craig has built more than just a car. He’s brought a childhood dream to life, graduating from passenger to owner and driver.