DREAM DART BUILT FOR DISABLED VETERAN

Dream Dart  SEMA build– A Legacy Reborn

On November 12, 2004, Steve Connor’s life changed forever. At just 23 years old, the Second Class Machinist Mate in the United States Navy survived a devastating accident that left him in a coma for weeks—and ultimately cost him his leg. Now an amputee and a veteran, Steve has turned adversity into inspiration, supported every step of the way by his wife, Keri.

When Steve needed a certified caregiver, Keri stepped in without hesitation—juggling motherhood and running her own successful salon. Together, they’ve become a beacon of hope for other amputees and their families.

Among the items Steve held onto after the accident was a treasured family heirloom: a 1967 Dodge Dart originally owned by his great-grandmother Myrtle. Before she passed, Myrtle gave the car to Steve, hoping it would one day become a symbol of his strength and perseverance.

One of Steve’s greatest dreams was to see the Dart fully restored and transformed. When the team at Finish Line Speed Shop heard his story, we knew this build was something special. It wasn’t just about horsepower—it was about honoring a legacy and building something that represents courage, family, and determination. That’s how the Dream Dart was born.

 The Build Begins

To kick off the project, COPART donated a low-mileage 2006 Dodge Charger Daytona R/T, which served as the donor car. Its Gen 3 HEMI engine and automatic transmission form the powertrain foundation.

To enhance performance, the Dart is equipped with:

• AIRAID Cold Air Intake

• PowerAid throttle body spacer

• MSD 6-HEMI ignition controller with HVC-2 Blaster coils

• DRIVEN Racing Oil by Joe Gibbs Racing for peak lubrication

Under an Auto Metal Direct GT/GTS hood, a FLEX-A-LITE aluminum radiator and electric fan module keep the HEMI cool. Inside the cabin, a DAKOTA DIGITAL gauge cluster monitors performance, while VINTAGE AIR Gen IV climate control ensures comfort on the road. Audio is handled by a KICKER Livin’ Loud sound system powered by XS POWER batteries. The deep American muscle tone? Delivered by a full MAGNAFLOW exhaust system.

Built to Handle Like a Modern Muscle Car

To harness the power, the Dream Dart features a full QA1 suspension system:

• K-member

• Upper and lower tubular control arms

• Dynamic strut rods, torsion bar adjusters, tie rod links

• Adjustable shocks on all four corners

• Subframe connectors, sway bars, and lowered rear leaf springs

A BORGESON quick-ratio power steering box paired with an IDIDIT steering column ensures sharp handling and response. The result? A classic muscle car that can carve corners like today’s finest sports cars.

Stopping Power & Style

Braking is managed by a full set of cross-drilled four-wheel power disc brakes with black powder-coated calipers. The Dart rides on SUMMIT RACING EQUIPMENT Legend 5 wheels (17"x7" front, 18"x8.5" rear), wrapped in TOYO Proxes 4 Plus tires for confident grip and a commanding stance.

The Finishing Touches

• The underside, wheel wells, trunk, and cabin are protected by SCORPION Protective Coatings, including a heat and noise reduction treatment.

• Body perfection is achieved using EVERCOAT body filler, with final paintwork laid down using VALSPAR’s De Beer Refinishing primers, base coat, and clear. The result: an unforgettable jet-black finish that earns the name “Black Beauty.”

For added safety and durability:

• IRONCLAD protective gloves are used throughout the build.

• A REEL Cameras HD Slayer POV camera documents every moment.

• A custom COVERCRAFT car cover keeps the Dream Dart protected when not on the road.

A Car with a Soul

The Dream Dart isn’t just a car—it’s a tribute. To family. To resilience. To Steve, Keri, and Myrtle. We’re honored to be part of their story and proud to bring this unforgettable build to life.