Based on factory performance potential, the 1970 and ’71 models of the Dodge Challenger are the most sought-after, but the rest of the first-generation cars also have a high level of desirability, no matter what’s under the hood. Unfortunately, in the case of this 1972 Challenger here on Craigslist, there’s nothing in the engine bay right now other than empty space. However, this one’s actually affordable and appears to be a decent candidate for an eager gearhead to build exactly the way he or she sees fit. Priced at what sounds like a reasonable $5,495, this rolling E-Body is in Portland, Oregon, and we’d like to thank reader Curvette for spotting it and providing the tip here!
Looking around the outside, things are certainly far from perfect, and this one has sustained some front-end damage. We don’t get to view the passenger side at all, and the left side shows a couple of additional minor dents and a quarter that appears to have already had an attempted repair. A couple of parts are absent, such as the mirror and door handle. Hopefully, with the low initial investment, there will be enough funds left over to perform the needed bodywork, then spray on a fresh coat of Hemi Orange paint afterward. The seller also indicates that this one’s a factory Rallye model, which replaced the R/T in 1972, but it’s missing the simulated vent on at least one front fender, so it’s possible this panel has been modified or replaced.
The first-gen Challenger is one of those cars that clearly illustrates what a difference just one year can make, as the 1971 model still offered big block availability, or Hemi power to those few who selected the 426 engine. All that was gone for ’72, and not even a possibility on the Rallye, with the 340 becoming the top dog for the 1972 models. The only tidbit we get from the seller is that this one originally came equipped with a V8 and an automatic, but no word on whether the engine was a 318 or a 340. It’ll be entirely up to the buyer to decide if a small block will do here, or if stepping up to something larger will be more suitable in the long run.
Several components are stripped from the inside, and the seats will need new material as part of the restoration. Don’t forget to put glass on your shopping list, either. It’s also important to note that the seller is keeping the wheels and tires shown in the photos, and a set of steel rollers with mystery tires will be on the car when the buyer comes to pick it up. There’s a lot of work awaiting the next owner here, but I’m leaning toward feeling that this one is probably priced fairly for what you’re getting. What do you think?
Good find Corvette! This one shouldn’t last long.
To all my BF brothers, I haven’t gone away. Came back from semi retirement last week and took a GM role at another printer. And I didn’t have to relocate!
Hope all is well with everyone!