The problem with some classics is that originality and desirability often mean that values are beyond the reach of mere mortals like us. That is where a well-executed tribute can fill the void. This 1971 Dodge Charger rides to the rescue. It has been transformed from an SE into an R/T clone, and the 440 Six-Pack under the hood should provide neck-snapping performance. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Charger listed here on Craigslist in Bremerton, Washington. It could be yours for $34,950.
Beauty is a subjective thing because while some enthusiasts aren’t drawn to the appearance of a particular classic, others will find the same car irresistible. I admit that I have never warmed to the “fuselage” styling introduced across various Chrysler models in 1971. The Charger is no exception, and I feel that the company’s latest offering lacked the elegance of its predecessors. Of course, that is a personal opinion, and I respect you if you disagree. This Dodge presents exceptionally well in Dark Blue Metallic, with an excellent depth of color and shine. I am slightly confused by the close-up shot of the hood, because it is hard to determine whether there are scratches requiring attention, or if the defects are in the image itself. The seller is sparing with their information, but the overall appearance suggests that it may have undergone a recent refurbishment. They encourage in-person inspections, which is a reassuring fact that will allow potential buyers to eliminate any possible nasty issues. The stripes look crisp, the trim and glass are in good order, and the Charger rolls on Centerline wheels. However, the hood badges confirm that this Dodge is more than a pretty face.
Chrysler produced some wonderful and potent engines throughout history, and the 440ci Six-Pack is no exception. The 1971 Charger Sales Brochure quotes power and torque figures of 385hp and 490 ft/lbs, making this a genuine muscle car. This classic also features a three-speed Torqueflite transmission, as well as power-assisted steering and brakes. The lack of information supplied by the seller extends to this Charger’s mechanical health. However, the engine bay presents well, with no evidence of fluid leaks or other problems. The impression given is that this gem is a turnkey proposition.
The theme of tidy presentation continues inside this Charger. The missing wheel center is the only glaring fault, because the Blue vinyl trim is free from any visible wear or other problems. The same is true of the carpet, dash, and pad, and the B&M shifter should make selecting gears a breeze. It isn’t loaded with visible factory options, but with a new center in the wheel, this interior should garner plenty of positive comments.
Considering the power generated by the 440 Six-Pack hiding under the hood of this 1971 Dodge Charger, this is the view that the opposition may get of it at a Traffic Light Grand Prix. This will be a genuinely fast car, and the seller’s decision to encourage inspections suggests they are confident that it doesn’t hide nasty secrets. Would you consider purchasing a tribute like this Charger, or would you prefer to invest your hard-earned cash into the real deal?
To me the 68-70 Chargers are a much prettier car but their prices have gone stratospheric. This looks like a lot of fun but I prefer the Chrysler road wheels. If it’s as nice as it looks it’s priced right.
Nice looking car. As mentioned the dealers description is nearly nonexistent, it has more information about forms of payment than the car itself. It’s probably overpriced, there are more than a few quality parts in the engine compartment, but that is offset by some cheap parts like the steering wheel, upper radiator hose and the awful wing on the trunk that seems to be a fixture on every early-1970’s Mopar that has an owner seeking attention at a coffee and cars. The Centerline wheels are fine, they work well on any car that gives off a late-1970’s through late-1980’s vibe. If someone is local and is interested it’s worth a look, but it’s probably one turn/flip past being a good deal.
Steve R
This was a 318 Charger SE. The information is missing about the car itself like Steve R mentioned. I am a Mopar guy and when this is done I need to know if the front suspension was up dated to the big block specifications. I.e. torsion bars 440 etc. This is important to know. What type of rear end. Is it 8 1/4 or 8 3/4 opened or positive traction. What size are the rear brake drums. What year is the 440? Looking at the tab on the distributor should be stamped HP. Or is this a smog engine from the 70’s painted corporate blue which its not worth it. That my opinion. The person who owned this before ruined it by installing that B&M shifter in it. I would of installed factory console and replaced the column shifter on the steering wheel by putting a plain one there. But the seller didn’t show a good picture of this. Does all the gauges work? Yeah i know nick picking but it important if your going to invest big bucks on this Charger and yes its clean good looking car. Oh.. the head lining is it good? I can go on but you get the message. Thanks for reading. And good luck to the next owner. 🐻 🇺🇸
I agree with Big Bear! :-)
☺️…🐻🇺🇸
Thanks 😊…🐻🇺🇸
I am totally on board with Big Bear on this one. I’m a Mopar man myself, and that is not what I would consider an R/T tribute. Too many missing R/T specific parts. Doors, taillights, rear valence panel, wrong type of PowerBulge hood, etc. The B & M shifter hack job completely ruins it for me. Hard pass. GLWTS.
In checking out the sellers website I couldn’t find the Charger, but they do have a 73 AMC Hornet with only 14k miles for $4,999. Very interesting.
https://www.792cars.com/details/used-1973-amc-hornet/117223023
Agreed – not so much a tribute, but an engine swap & upgrade. Nice car, but I’ll pass.
When looking at the first picture I thought someone made an aero warrior front end on this. It looked like about a foot too much sheet metal in front of the front wheels. I googled images and realized that’s the way they were. Maybe the first picture exaggerated it, but it looked almost cartoonish.
Good write up Adam. Yes, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. This car started life ugly and time has not been kind to it.. IMHO.
I was issued a 1972 dodge 440 interceptor. Mechanic said tune ups were a nightmare. One of the rear plugs was unreachable unless you unbolted a motormount to lift it?