Original 340 Included: 1971 Dodge Challenger R/T

The Barn Finds motto is “To Protect and Preserve,” meaning we prefer our classics to be original and unmolested. This 1971 Dodge Challenger R/T doesn’t meet that criterion in its current form, but returning it to factory specifications is within reach for its next owner. The engine bay houses a fresh, upgraded V8, although the deal includes the numbers-matching 340 if the buyer craves authenticity. Otherwise, this classic appears to need nothing. Once again, I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for utilizing a finely-tuned radar to spot the Challenger listed here on eBay in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The seller set their price at $69,995 with the option to make an offer.

Dodge’s First Generation Challenger entered its second production year by the time this R/T rolled off the line in 1971. The badge was a showroom success upon its introduction, but the sales volume dropped significantly in 1971. That year’s color palette included eighteen paint shades, with this car presenting beautifully in Code B5 Bright Blue. The seller confirms it was repainted years ago and can be considered an extremely tidy, driver-grade classic. It possesses an excellent depth of color and shine, and the decals are crisp. Rust can be the mortal enemy of the Challenger, but the seller’s wide selection of underside shots reveals no such problems with this gem. The trim and glass are in good condition, while the rear spoiler and Rally wheels give this classic a sense of purpose.

Before we delve into this Challenger’s interior condition, it is worth noting a few changes. The Tuff Wheel shown in this photo isn’t included; the buyer will receive the original woodgrain item that is in good condition. There is an additional gauge mounted below the dash, and the factory radio has been replaced with a modern CD player. Otherwise, there is little inside this R/T deserving criticism. The Black vinyl and carpet are free from wear, and the woodgrain hasn’t faded or lifted. The dash is immaculate, and the pad is crack-free. The console adds a luxurious feel, and the pistol-grip shifter encourages the driver to maximize this Dodge’s performance potential.

This Challenger left the line powered by a 340ci V8. The first owner teamed that motor with a four-speed manual transmission, an 8¾” 3.55 rear end, power steering, and power-assisted front disc brakes. Dodge quoted a gross power output of 275hp for the 340, with that figure dropping to 235hp in Net terms. The seller indicates that the V8 in the engine bay isn’t original and is a period-correct stroker motor with only about 2,500 miles. The rest of the drivetrain is original, and the rear end was recently rebuilt. Those preferring authenticity will welcome the inclusion of the numbers-matching V8, allowing them to return this classic to its factory form. Enthusiasts seeking a turnkey Mopar classic will find this R/T attractive, as the seller confirms that it runs and drives extremely well.

This 1971 Dodge Challenger R/T presents superbly, and my preference for originality would likely lead me to install the numbers-matching 340 under the hood if I were its new owner. However, squirreling that motor away in a safe corner of my workshop and enjoying the car as-is may be the best approach. If I chose to part with the Challenger in the future, that original V8 could be reinstalled, maximizing the return on the original investment. Do you agree?