I admit that my mistake when I first saw the pictures of this 1970 Dodge Charger was to think it was another attempt at a General Lee clone. Actually, this is an original 1970 Charger that left the factory in an orange color known as either “Go Mango” or “Vitamin C Orange Metallic” (I like both fruits, so either one works for me). While it may or may not be its original hue now, you can go check it out in Huntingdon, Pennsylvania or bid on it here on eBay, where so far it’s at $9,800 and any reserve has been met.
As with any of these vintage Mopars, the first concerns are rust and originality. It appears that some work has already been done (and needs to be re-done) in the rear quarters, and the seller tells us that for a good restoration plan on replacing the floors. Luckily, those are available. Sometimes the quality and availability of parts for these cars astounds me!
Over here we see more of the same. However, we also see that the trim, bumpers, and lights are in place as they should be, albeit in less than pristine condition.
More rust is visible down here and what I think are traction bars sticking out below could be indicative of drag racing use — either on or off the street.
I was also pleased to see that the interior is intact as well. Inspection stickers imply that the car has been off the road since 2014, but somehow the dingyness of this interior implies longer than that to me. Hopefully, I’m wrong, because one of the worst things you can do to a car is not to drive it.
While this car originally had a 318 cubic inch V8 under the hood, that has been swapped out for a big-block 383 V8. I’m thinking that’s a good thing overall if you want to have fun driving the car, but I’m interested in what you Barn Finds readers think–please take the time to comment Yay or Nay on the engine swap below!
The seller has thoughtfully included pictures of both the all-important fender tag and VIN plate in the auction listing. Would you try to find an original 318 or go with the swap?
Well, back in the day, the saying used to be “there is no substitute for cubic inches”, and since it’s already been done, might as well make the best of it! Seeing is how this is an SE, it could be nice again, but it is really CRUSTY and is going to require lots of $$$ to get it there. GLWTS!! :-)
I’m thinking it was “there’s no replacement for good old displacement” but that may only be for the East coast. :)
It seems to me, that there’s more 68-70 Chargers now, then I remember from my youth, just saying !
Some used to say(and probably still do) “The only replacement for cubic inches is rectangular dollars.”
Moparman…
I think you mean “No replacement for displacement”!!
Since already replaced, go for the big block!
So much investment required, no possible way to restore/flip. Only a labor of love (and deep wallet) can bring this one back.
At least it doesn’t have a vinyl roof hiding yet more rust.
V1X was a black vinyl top. Saw repair patches were holes were for the top trim.
The Barn Finds Motto, late 2019 edition:
“If you don’t like the rusty Dodge Charger we’re showing you today, we’ll provide another one for you roll your eyes at tomorrow!”
I kid, of course. Happy new year and keep up the good work!
Don’t you just love that Confederate flag license plate?
Yeah, too easy. If this doesn’t make you think of the Dukes of Hazzard, nothing will, unless a picture of Daisy Duke shows up( ahem, that’s a cue for someone) anyway, I read, they never used ’70 Chargers, 68’s with 69 grills, but no 70’s. I suppose this is in one piece and able to support itself on 4 wheels, a big plus, but again, you got to be nuts.
There’s no replacement for displacement, so out goes the 383 and in goes the 440. Don’t see the point of going back to the 318 at all.
Interesting red Camaro parked next to it.
Yes indeed. I’d rather have that 70-73 Camaro! Too bad the top’s cut for a sunroof, that late 70s, short lived fad.
The motor is not the big problem here.
Its the rust.
Not sure that its saveable.
It’s saveable but you really need to want to. I’m not about restoring them to flip them. I wouldn’t take this on because I’m not madly in love with it but for the right person with the right mindset for it, it’s totally do-able.
i see a bad moon rising troubles coming. too much dough for all it needs project for graveyard carz.
Is he selling the red Camaro? Must be a 71 to 73 model due to taller rear spoiler. Could it be a 71 with 330 hp LT-1? For this money I would rather find a 68 or 69 R/T. Good to seller and buyer because someone will buy it. 25 years ago, this would have been junked.
Since this is the old sayings post!!! Driven hard and put away wet!! Is the best description for this old car!!!
Sold for $13.101.
Funny thing about these cars: if it had a 440 from the factory, it would have sold for double that, and no one would care about the condition.