The Dodge Charger had a record sales year in 1973 – up by more than 56%. The car received a refresh in styling after a total redesign in 1971. Gone were the hidden headlights and the SE models (half of production) had triple opera windows, so perhaps the buying public liked what they saw. This ’73 Charger SE has been off the road for several years after being treated to an engine swap. Needing cosmetic attention, too, this Mopar is in Winston, Montana, and the no-reserve auction here on eBay has only attracted $200 in attention. Our thanks to Barn Finder “Pete McGee” for turning us on to this project.
Though the Charger still had a 318 cubic inch V8 as standard equipment in ’73, this car was ordered with a 400. As the story goes, the previous owner had a 440 “big block” installed about 20 years ago. It came from a 1968 model and is said to have been rated at 350 hp. A Power Bulge hood was added with 440 lettering and a Rallye air cleaner was lifted from a ’72 Charger. Due to an electrical issue (chewed wires), the car was parked, and the problem was never addressed until now. The exhaust system had just been upgraded to a set of Flowmasters.
The seller put in a new battery and the engine turns but will not fire. So, the original problem will need correcting along with the servicing of the fuel delivery system which no doubt has old gasoline. The brakes will also need a look-see and the car’s factory air conditioning was removed long ago. This was likely a bench seat car initially as the bucket seats don’t match the rear that looks to be in nearly perfect condition. So, you’d need to redo it all with matching stuff.
The color of the Dodge was changed from silver to white at some point and rust has crept in as you would expect. It’s described as “not horrible” and a link to all sorts of other photos are provided to help you address that issue. The vinyl top peeled off years ago and new tires have been installed on the rear to replace snow donuts. If you’ve been looking for a big block Charger to restore, could this be the one?
Nice air filter.
Here’s the transition from boulevard brawler to personal luxury car in ’75. Nevertheless there were few of these built whether it was a 400 or 440. Has a fair share of investment ahead but is worth saving.
I often wonder what’s worse than under dash gauges…
Nice…..
I had one from 1977 to 1980. Driving from the Base in CT to home in Buffalo was nearly 400 miles. 2 weekends a month for 3 years.
Drove the ass out of the thing.
Always have wanted another. But that one needs a bunch of work.
The only thing worse than bucket seats with auto on the column is a bench seat with auto on the column.