This 1971 Dodge Challenger needs love, suffering some of the typical rust issues that often beset these classics. However, it is complete, its V8 engine runs, and it comes with spare engine components that could help add some extra muscle to this beast. It has generated enough interest to suggest that people see some potential below the surface. That begs the question of whether they view it as a project, or is it likely to become the source of parts for another build. Why not take a look and see what you think?
The seller indicates that this Challenger recently emerged following thirty years in storage. It appears to be a project build that stalled many years ago. There are glimpses of its original Dark Green Metallic paint visible in several locations, although many of its exterior surfaces no wear primer. The panels are generally pretty straight, but there is enough damage to the driver’s side rear quarter panel to justify replacement. The biggest hurdle facing the buyer will be typical rust issues. The exterior has been spared the worst of the problems, but it is clearly visible in the floors and some of the rails. Somebody patched the trunk pan using sheet steel and rivets, and any high-end restoration would involve cutting this away and starting from scratch. This might sound daunting, but because rust is so common, replacement pans and floors are plentiful and affordable. The trim and glass generally look respectable, and there are a ’71 grille and headlamp bezels in the parts cache that the seller includes.
Powering this Challenger is a 318ci V8 that produced 230hp and 320 ft/lbs of torque in its prime. The first owner teamed this engine with a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission, a 3.23 Sure Grip 8¾” rear end, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. The 318 provided buyers with pretty respectable performance, and the embedded video in the listing seems to show that this one is healthy. The car runs well, and those seeking performance improvements will welcome the 340ci engine block, crank, pistons, and cylinder heads the seller is throwing in. Another welcome inclusion is the Mopar OEM T/A exhaust and chrome tips. The car might not be mechanically roadworthy, but getting it to that point shouldn’t be difficult or expensive.
This Challenger’s interior is its highlight because the condition is undoubtedly acceptable for a driver-grade build. The Green vinyl upholstered surfaces are in good order, while the dash and pad are crack-free. The carpet would benefit from a deep clean, and there are only a few minor components that are AWOL. The first owner’s decision to add a few factory options increases its appeal, with the buyer receiving bucket seats, a console, air conditioning, Rally gauges, and cruise control.
The seller listed this 1971 Dodge Challenger here on eBay in Troy, Michigan. Ten bids have pushed the price beyond the reserve to $9,100 with the clock winding down on the auction. There is still time for people to stake their claim on this classic, and the listing’s viewing history suggests that will probably happen. Returning to the original question: Do you view it as a viable project, or is this Challenger a parts car?
It needs the interior removed to replace pans. It also needs fenders, quarters and other sections replaced
The frame has sections needing attention.
This is a car needing work and money to get back to salvageable runner.
The business model is upside down unless much sweat equity which includes welding and tear down by new owners.
Then drop a minimum of ten for paint. The panels such as fenders are well as one can say Mopar pricing.
Good luck with restoring.. it’s doable and a potential sweet car..
It’s rough, but complete and well optioned. It will likely return to the road, either as an R/T clone or Pro Touring. Not too many years ago this car would have been parted out, but the dynamics have changed as viable parts cars have disappeared. It’s current high bid has likely guaranteed its survival.
Steve R
Sold with a high bid of $9,250.
Steve R
In the late 80’s a car like this one would be patched up at the local welding shop, sprayed at the local Maaco after several weekends of body work, and run and enjoyed. This car seems to have a lot of desirable features, but how many of them were there when it rolled off the dealer’s lot? When the big money moves on to a new hobby I think we will see a lot more of these cars selling for $1000 and being put back on the road for another $5k to have something fun to drive that is not a concourse restoration. We have let perfect become the enemy of good enough.
When these are selling for $1000, it will be because gasoline is no longer available. I hate to think that, but I don’t think these prices will ever go back down, especially in my lifetime.
I think a correction is coming. It will shake out cars that don’t have a strong following, you are seeing that already in Model A’s and a lot of other cars built through the 1950’s. Challengers, like this one, that are complete, will never sell for anywhere close to $1,000 on the open market.
There are a lot of worthwhile cars built in the last 50 years that aren’t particularly hard to find and for not a lot of money. All someone needs to do is broaden their horizons and put in the effort. That was how it was in the early-80’s when I was a dumb teenager, without much money, that was priced out of the cars I really wanted. Me and most of my friends were smart enough to start going after cars with lower performance drivetrains or base models. We never had a hard time finding something. Many of my friends that didn’t adjust their expectations to meet reality are still “looking”.
Steve R
It sports a ’70 front grill. How hard is it to put in ’70 taillights? – which i prefer
so what year is it for sure. 70 or 71
How many of those that comment actually own a muscle car? I own several – 1971 Olds 442 with the 455 engine, a 1972 Javelin SST 390, a 1974 Plymouth ‘ Cuda 360 and a 1974 Dodge Challenger 440 six pack. Run and drive them all. Yes, it takes money and time and knowledge to put these cars back together and on the road. Not looking for a return on investment, but the thrill of the ride. Not to sell, but drive! That being said, the Challenger presented is a good base and a good start and a great price for restoration. And a 340 small block included! See what the price of one of these is nowadays! Don’t moan and groan about the work and money involved.Those that complain are usually lame.
Lots of work for sure but a parts car?!? That would be a crime. I love the 71’s and especially the louvered scoops in front of the rear wheel wells. I was mulling the idea of adding them to my 12 Challenger SRT392 but decided against it. If she fell in my lap I would get her running and safe and have some fun. The resto shop will always take 100k plus when you’re ready
It look’s like the seller’s intention was to create a T/A clone, with purchase of that block and exhaust. The rust / rot probably presented too much of a challenge, and they backed out.
That sold price presents some good options for the buyer. A ’71 318 Chally will never be worth what is put into it, but a restored one will still be cool. It would also make a great parts car.