With its original paint and steel having survived so nicely over the past 49-years, you would be forgiven for thinking that this 1970 Dodge Charger is a beautiful and original survivor. However, the story is very different under the skin, so it will be interesting to see what our Barn Finds readers think of this. The Charger is located in Saint Charles, Missouri, and is listed for sale here on eBay. The BIN has been set at $54,500, but the owner is willing to listen to offers.

The triple green Charger is a pretty stunning looking car. The Dark Green Metallic paint has a good look to it, and the owner claims that this is all original, with no Bondo or previous repairs. The Dark Green vinyl top is also generally in good condition, although I was able to locate a couple of small nicks in it. I would probably look for some way of addressing those, as they would represent a great way for water to get under the vinyl. If that happens, then you could be faced with rust issues in the blink of an eye. The trim, chrome, and glass all looks really good, and the provided shots of the trunk, floors, and frame, reveal a car that seems to be as solid as a rock.

By and large, the green interior trim of the Charger also looks to be very nice. The vinyl, plastic, seat covers, and the headliner are said to be fairly new, and all look to be in great condition. The carpet generally looks nice, although there might be some staining visible on the passenger side front carpet. This could be a trick of the light, but if it isn’t, then I would be inclined to have it professionally cleaned to see if it could be addressed before I would consider a replacement. The Charger still features its original radio, Rally gauges, and air conditioning, but the aftermarket gauges hanging under the dash provide a more precise means of monitoring what is happening under the hood.

Lifting the lid reveals that moment when you discover that the Charger isn’t quite as original as its outward appearance might suggest. The engine bay used to be home to a 318ci V8 and 3-speed automatic transmission. It isn’t clear where the 318 went, or when, but occupying its former home is a 472ci crate motor. This monster pumps out 525hp, which is sent via a rebuilt automatic transmission to a Dana 60 rear end. The engine wears a Holley Double Pumper carburetor, TTI Headers, and a 3″ exhaust. The Charger also features power brakes to effectively bring it to a safe stop. The owner says that the engine starts easily and runs really well. He also states that the car drives nicely, with no odd noises, rattles, or clunks.

Part of me wishes that this Dodge Charger was completely original, but a bigger part of me would love nothing more than to jump behind the wheel, and to see what this beast is like to drive. The next owner certainly shouldn’t be left wanting for power when they bury their right boot, and it does hold the promise of some very entertaining motoring.