Some enthusiasts focus exclusively on unmolested classics, but others will embrace modified vehicles under the right circumstances. If you fall into the second category, this 1970 Dodge Challenger deserves a close look. The seller describes it as restored, but the only original part is the basic body structure. Their decision to dump its original V8 for a fire-breathing Hemi was the party piece. Health issues have forced their hand with the finish line in sight, so the seller has listed the Challenger here on eBay in Taneyville, Missouri. The bidding has reached $16,200, which is, unsurprisingly, below the reserve. There is also a BIN option of $69,950 for those who must have a Hemi in their life.
Launched in 1970, the Dodge Challenger enjoyed a banner first year in showrooms. An impressive 76,935 buyers took one home, a number that remained the badge’s high point. The seller bought this first-year example about six years ago, and much has changed since then. They began what they called a restoration by replacing the outer wheel houses, trunk drop-offs, rear quarter panels, full trunk floor pan, floor pans, both fenders, valances, and deck lid. They used high-quality AMD items, ensuring the car was rust-free before addressing its cosmetic needs. Originally ordered in Code X9 Black, they seized the chance to change the color. They could have selected any shade, but applied iconic Plum Crazy across almost every surface. The underside wears the same shade, and the lack of marks underneath suggests this beauty hasn’t seen much action since the paint was applied. The photo quality isn’t as good as I’d like, but I can’t spot any cosmetic shortcomings. The trim is excellent, and the glass is clear. The rear louver is a wonderful period touch, and the 10″ rear steelies may be necessary to apply power to Planet Earth when we consider what hides beneath this Dodge’s hood.
Decoding the VIN confirms that this Challenger left the factory with a 318ci V8 under the hood. That motor produced 230hp and 320 ft/lbs of torque, which many people would consider sufficient. However, some enthusiasts crave more…much, much more. This Challenger delivers, courtesy of the 426ci Hemi V8, a 23-spline four-speed manual transmission, and a 3.54 Dana 60 rear end. The car also features power steering and a four-wheel power disc brake conversion, so bringing it to a halt should be pretty easy. The seller invested a considerable sum into this classic’s drivetrain. They rebuilt the Hemi with new pistons and rods and refurbished the heads. Most of the original brake components have gone the way of the Dodo, and the build included a new fuel tank and filler. The only identified remaining task is a front-end alignment. Otherwise, the Dodge appears ready for action.
If the seller’s description is accurate, the interior images are deceptive. They seem to show plenty of minor faults throughout the interior, with the Parchment vinyl appearing to be marked and damaged. The build included a complete retrim, but I’m not sure whether the visible faults are an illusion or actual cosmetic problems. My instincts are that there are faults, but I am giving the seller the benefit of the doubt. The seller admits to a dash crack, but doesn’t mention any other visual shortcomings. If that is correct, the photos demonstrate why it is crucial to get the best possible shots before listing a classic. The only functional tasks awaiting the buyer will be reconnecting a few wires, attaching the speedometer cable, and getting the original AM/FM radio running.
One look at the listing statistics confirms the interest this 1970 Dodge Challenger has generated. The bid tally of 12 is the tip of the iceberg, because the Listing View and Watch List figures of 546 and 34, respectively, are mighty impressive. It is easy to see why this Challenger has turned heads: it features one of the era’s most desirable paint shades, and the rebuilt Hemi should deliver mind-blowing performance. Placing a value on any modified classic is challenging, but do you think someone will hit the BIN button to guarantee ownership? If not, what do you think a fair price would be for this Dodge?
Time we stop, hey, what’s that sound? Everybody look what’s going down,,( Buffalo Springfield) That sound? The sound of air escaping from the classic car hobby. $16 grand? For a hemi Challenger? That’s as crazy as a old Dodge pickup for $11grand. Not long ago, 20 years, these were touted as the most expensive cars to cross the block. Regularly 6 figures, and some in the millions( a convertible hemi) Apparently the inner tube blew on that one.
Well, well, I may be on to something, I mean, anytime something brings a fraction of of the cost, you have to wonder what’s up. If this doesn’t bolster what I’ve been saying all along, nothing will. I know I rip on the site for featuring “another Challenger”, truth be known, they were a heck of a car, but typically overblown, and were tin cans with big motors, and something I’d never pay those prices for. Hype has been a wonderful thing in that regard, but running out of steam, none more evident than right here.
Agree in general, but if this had been born with a Hemi, and originally painted in Plum Crazy, the price might be more stratospheric than plebian. It is more of an owners build than an investment opportunity.
I don’t care if the upholstery appears a little damaged or even if there are some modifications. I would rip those crappy looking louvers off the back window, get my hand on that iconic pistol grip, and DRIVE.
Nice car. It might not be to everyone’s taste, nothing is, but the quality of the work is obvious. With 4 days left the bidding is far from done. I would be surprised to see someone hit the BIN at some point.
Steve R