One of the key characteristics of a classic is that it should elicit an emotional response. While some people buy them purely as investments, others hand over their hard-earned cash because they feel a deep passion for the car in question. That is how I feel about this 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T, and I am sure that we have readers who share that view. It presents well, but there is scope for the new owner to make improvements that will elevate the car’s appearance. Adding to its appeal, it is a turnkey proposition with a genuine 44,000 miles showing on its odometer. The seller has listed the Challenger here on eBay in Melbourne, Florida. Bidding sits below the reserve at $25,800, but there is a BIN option of $75,000 for those who view the R/T as an automotive must-have.
I have previously stated that I believe Chrysler’s E-Body cousins, released in 1970, are probably the most attractive vehicles of that decade. Bold and aggressive styling, a low roof-line, and bulging flanks combine to give both the Plymouth Barracuda and the Dodge Challenger an appearance that is hard to beat. This 1970 Challenger R/T provides all that and more, courtesy of its beautiful Code F8 Dark Green Metallic paint. While the seller emphasizes the car’s original steel, they don’t mention whether it has a restoration history. However, the seemingly flawless paint and the depth of color and shine suggest it has undergone some form of cosmetic refresh. I don’t view that as a negative characteristic; it just means that this classic will effortlessly turn heads wherever it goes. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and the trim and glass are excellent. It is common to see these cars with aftermarket wheels, but it is wonderful to see this classic rolling on a set of Rally wheels with sparkling trim rings.
The specter of tightening emissions regulations loomed large when this Challenger left the line, but the R/T variant was still a potent weapon. The entry-level engine, as found in this car, was the 383ci V8. The factory quoted power and torque figures of 335hp and 425 ft/lbs, which this Challenger feeds to the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. The seller doesn’t indicate that this gem is numbers-matching, although their emphasis on overall originality suggests that it is. This classic has 44,000 miles showing on its odometer and has been meticulously maintained during the five years the seller has been its custodian. It runs and drives perfectly, and is ready for some high-speed motoring fun with a new owner behind the wheel.
Examining the interior shots confirms that this Challenger isn’t perfect. The interior is presentable and serviceable, but it has some shortcomings. The dashpad is cracked, a common occurrence with age, and the door trims show scratches and other signs of deterioration. Parts to address those shortcomings are readily available, but I feel that any ’70 Challenger R/T with a BIN of $75,000 shouldn’t require such attention. Otherwise, there is not much worth criticizing. The cloth and vinyl seatcovers look stunning in Dark Green, while the carpet and headliner are excellent. The woodgrain isn’t faded or lifting, and the Rally gauge cluster features a factory tachometer.
And this is the view that the competition may get if the driver gives this 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T its head. Its performance should be mighty impressive, with enough power to satisfy most enthusiasts with gasoline coursing through the veins. It has only attracted five bids, but with a healthy Watch List tally and a week remaining before the hammer falls, that number will undoubtedly climb. Will bidding eventually threaten the BIN figure? I doubt it, because recent successful sales suggest it is optimistic. However, as I stated initially, cars like this often provoke an emotional response. All that is needed is two or more people who let their hearts rule their heads, and this Challenger could be on its way to a new home. Do you see that happening?
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