Mopar enthusiasts who bought a Dodge Charger 500 in 1969 were in for a real treat, as it featured the uniqueness of a flush-mounted rear window and front grille, which Chrysler hoped would improve aerodynamics enough to make the car more competitive in NASCAR. The results were disappointing, so next up was the Charger Daytona, and the track results were considerably better, to put it mildly. The 500 name was carried over in 1970, but it was now designated as a specific trim level and served as a bridge between the base Charger and the R/T model. This 1970 Dodge Charger 500 here on eBay seems very solid, with the seller calling it a 99% rust-free example. This one’s located in Lumberton, North Carolina, and is already experiencing some competitive bidding, with the current high number of $30,100 still not enough yet to lift the reserve.
Although the blue paint is a bit faded, this one actually looks pretty decent outside overall, and somehow those silver accent side stripes don’t really bother me as much as they probably should. If it’s just a fun driver you’re after, the exterior here may be OK for a while, but the best news is that the panels likely won’t require much prep for a fresh paint job whenever the urge hits. Those spoke-type wheels were popularized by the Duke’s Dodge decades ago, and while they do work well on a B-Body, I’d probably go back with stock Mopar rims at some point.
The smallest V8 found under the Charger 500’s hood in 1970 was a 318, with the next jump up being a big-block of the 383 variety. The latter is what’s featured here, but the details are limited, aside from the owner reporting that the car is presently running and driving. However, everything in the bay looks to be in good order. It’s also nice to see the A/C equipment intact, and a fresh air filter is hopefully an indication that the routine maintenance hasn’t been neglected on this one. There’s also a new gas tank underneath, and all four white-letter tires are reported to be new.
Inside, most of the components are still in fairly decent condition, and likely good enough to satisfy many buyers until they’re ready to take this car to the next level. Some wear is evident on the driver’s bucket, but it’s relatively minor, and the seller mentions the interior could use a new headliner. However, as structurally sound as the seller says this Dodge remains, it’s a real positive that most of the work needed here appears to be primarily cosmetic, and shouldn’t involve extensive sheet metal replacement. In the long run, how do you see moving forward with this 1970 Charger 500?
This is a classic example of why I will never own a Charger. Nice cars, but the price for these are ridiculous. $30k and RNM? This car will need an additional $30k or more, to get it back into shape. It does bring things into perspective though, when I see a beautifully restored car and how much it took to get it there. Obviously this car is worth it to those who are bidding on it. I don’t see more than $30k for this car, in this shape and it’s not even an R/T.
$30k doesn’t reach the reserve? Then the seller is on crack. Overpricing a Mopar that was cheaply made in its day doesn’t make it a classic.
The current bid is $35,000, the reserve has been met.
Steve R
The seller is not on crack. The Market ALWAYS dictates the pricing, based on demand and rarity. In 1970, the federal minimum wage was $1.60 per hour, or based on a 40 hour work week, you would recieve $64.00, prior to taxes. Per month this would average out to $256.00, before taxes, or $3072.00 per year, before taxes. The 1970 Dodge Charger 500 would cost you a base price of $3,001.00 -$3,200.00 for additions. The RT models had a higher base price of $3,700.00 (and could go higher, depending on the order). Insurance was also another additional cost to owning one of these mopars, running $1,000-$1,500 which average about 30% of the cars value.
ALL from a 1.60 per hour.The cars from this time period were not cheap, or cheaply made, and yes they are ALL classics
Needs undercarriage pictures. Seems like a ok Charger with some work done to it. Price should be 20-25k here.
The price of Chargers is a classic example of “it is what it is.” I actually teach high school Economics and could wax on about markets and pricing but I’ll stay philosophical. Especially when I think about the 69 RT I bought for $500 in 1981.
You are right. The1968-1970 Chargers have a well documented history of selling at high prices, regardless of condition. Every time one is featured on this site the responses are the same, it’s as if commenters consider what they are willing to pay as the vehicles value on the open market.
Steve R
This is a nice 500 Charger that you don’t see much. Since the engine is a L code which is 383-2 bbl and stock exhaust manifolds, horsepower was under 300. I see the top half was upgraded to a 4 bbl and can’t tell looks like headers. It’s nice to see AC still there and cruise control also. Yes the price maybe high but its in good shape pending they nothing hiding on the chassis. I would just fix the driver seat or anything else inside and get a professional detail job done. Drive it to car cruises and have fun. Oh, change those ugly exhaust tips. Spend some money on the factory tips make a big difference. Good luck to the next owner.. 🇺🇸🐻
The white 69 listed here is at 10k, with 3 days left…
The first time 16 year old me saw the new “decontented” (full bench seat!!!) ’70 Charger in the neighborhood Dodge dealership showroom I sensed the end of an era…
Would defiantly loose the Starsky & Clutch side stripe . And the drives side seat with the “I eat too many beans ” hole in it would not be a hit with the chicks.
Ended at 34K.
Reserve Not Met.
40 bids.
Relisted for 33K, Buy It Now (huh?) and SOLD.