Dodge introduced its First Generation Challenger in 1970 as its entry into the pony car segment. One of two models based on Chrysler’s E-Body platform, it immediately drew admirers courtesy of its muscular styling. Our feature Challenger rolled off the line in 1971 and is a blank canvas project with several possibilities. Its most immediate need is a new owner, with the seller listing it here on Craigslist in Brentwood, California. They set their sale price at $13,000 but offer an option that could increase that figure. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Gunter K for spotting this promising project.

Although I’m a confessed Blue-Oval enthusiast, I have never hidden my liking for the First Generation Challenger. The company hit the styling nail on the head, producing a car with a genuine sense of purpose. This car started life wearing Medium Green Metallic paint, and although most of it is intact, it is well beyond its best. The panels look pretty straight, but these classics always pose the question of potential rust problems. Some is visible in the lower extremities, like the rear quarters and front fenders, but it isn’t extensive. We receive no information on the floors or rails, but the news could be largely positive if the vehicle spent its life in California. Some secondhand underside components are visible in the supplied photos, along with most of the missing exterior trim pieces. However, even if the floors and/or trunk pan require replacement, those tasks are straightforward and typical. With the Challenger in its current state, the buyer could personalize the vehicle to their heart’s content by changing its color and adding their choice of wheels. This is a chance for someone to let their imagination run wild.

As with the exterior, it appears that any interior components not firmly attached to this classic are included. The original owner ordered this Dodge trimmed in Green vinyl, with the console adding a luxurious touch. It requires a total restoration, but the blank canvas nature of this project means that some potential buyers may consider custom upholstery. That could include materials like cloth or leather as they tailor it to their taste. The “blank canvas” philosophy continues when we assess the car’s drivetrain. It rolled off the line sporting a 318ci V8 that sent 230hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission. Although a ¼-mile ET of 17.3 seconds was hardly startling, the options broaden thanks to the absence of the original engine and transmission. The engine bay might be empty, but the seller says they could offer a solution for extra cash that could address the shortcoming. They don’t elaborate on this, making it a question worth asking. Alternatively, online auction sites are awash with excellent V8s, or the buyer might throw caution to the wind and invest in a crate motor. As with every aspect of this project, the world will be the buyer’s oyster, and they will be limited only by their imagination and the thickness of their wallet.

What would be your approach if you were seriously considering tackling this 1971 Dodge Challenger project? Would you investigate the drivetrain option offered by the seller, or do you already have a clear vision of what you’d slip beneath its skin? It offers its next owner limitless possibilities, but I’ll be interested to know whether any of you would consider pursuing it further. We’d love to be kept in the loop on this project if you do.