When Dodge released the Challenger in 1970, it offered something to appeal to every taste and budget. While some buyers focused on outright performance, the first owner of this Convertible craved luxury and comfort. It remains a genuine survivor that is nicely equipped, and with a mere 60,000 documented miles on the clock, it should offer its new owner years of reliable classic motoring. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting this drop-top listed here on Craigslist in Umatilla, Florida. The seller’s price of $89,000 isn’t pocket change, so let’s take a look to determine whether the figure is justified.

Dodge released the Challenger for the 1970 model year, and I have long considered the Chrysler E-Body cousins from this era to be among the most attractive to roll off an American production line. The muscular and purposeful stance makes even the most pedestrian example look special, an impression bolstered by the first owner ordering this Convertible in Bright Blue Metallic with a White soft-top. The first thing to note about this car is that it is a survivor that retains 100% of its original steel. There are no rust problems to cause sleepless nights and no evidence of significant panel imperfections. The paint holds a great shine, and the only downside I can spot is visible deterioration in the soft-top. It has developed a sagging appearance, but with replacements readily available for around $550, addressing that shortcoming won’t be difficult or expensive. The trim and glass are in good order, and the Rallye wheels are the most obvious sign that the first owner was willing to splash their cash to create a special vehicle.

Dodge offered 1970 Challenger buyers a wide range of engine choices, from the 225ci six to the firebreathing 426ci Hemi V8. This car’s first owner chose a relatively conservative route by teaming a 318ci V8 with a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission and power-assisted steering and front disc brakes. The motor might not be the most potent available in 1970, but its ability to generate 230hp and 320 ft/lbs of torque resulted in competent performance. The Challenger’s survivor status is further cemented by the seller’s claim that it remains numbers-matching. Another positive is the news that the claimed odometer reading of 60,000 original miles is verifiable. Those records form part of a document package that includes the original Window Sticker, Build Sheet, and other paperwork. The seller supplies no information regarding the Convertible’s mechanical health, although it would be fair to expect any Challenger within this price range to be perfect.

Okay, it’s time to draw a deep breath while we examine the interior features the first owner selected when ordering this Challenger. They include air conditioning, power windows, an AM/FM radio, White vinyl trim, bucket seats, a console, and a Slap Stick shifter. This shade of vinyl is particularly prone to marks and deterioration, but this car hasn’t suffered that fate. There is no yellowing, rips, tears, or other signs of abuse or neglect. The dash and pad are spotless, and the faux woodgrain is excellent. Rocking up to a Cars & Coffee in this Challenger with the top down virtually guarantees plenty of admiring looks and positive comments.

This 1970 Dodge Challenger Convertible is a stunning car, and with the tired soft-top its only issue, lifting its appearance would be a relatively cheap and easy task. Its originality and list of options make it genuinely special, while the included documentation helps its cause. However, the seller’s asking price is a long way above the market average for a Challenger of this caliber. It will be fascinating to gauge your response on the subject. If you were searching for a Challenger, would you be willing to pay $89,000 for this one? So, it’s over to you for comments.