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Rare Gator Top: 1970 Dodge Charger R/T 440

Sometimes, a classic appears on our desks at Barn Finds, where defining its most outstanding feature is almost impossible. Such is the case with this 1970 Dodge Charger R/T. It is a numbers-matching classic that presents superbly following a meticulous restoration. Its drivetrain combination and interior trim promise a satisfying ownership experience, but the distinctive vinyl roof material could be the ace up its sleeve. You will find this classic listed here on eBay in Roseville, Michigan. The seller set their auction to open at $90,000, but there have been no bids.

This R/T, which emerged during the final year of Second Generation Charger production, presents at a level that is almost impossible to fault. I scrutinize supplied photos for every classic carefully before committing words to my article, and it is hard to find anything not to like about this classic. Its Code F8 Dark Green Metallic paint has a depth of color and shine you could almost walk into. It cloaks laser-straight panels, with the underside shots confirming this classic is rust-free. The Lime Green “Bumblebee” stripe adds a striking contrast, but the Black “Gator Grain” vinyl top steals the show. I’ve been unable to determine the relative rarity of this feature conclusively, but I suspect that at least one of our readers will be able to shed some light on the subject. The distinctive grille and concealed headlamps look excellent, with the same true of the remaining trim and tinted glass. The R/T rolls on an aftermarket set of Rallye wheels that perfectly suit this car’s character. The Charger has recently emerged from a meticulous restoration. While it is unclear how many tens of thousands of dollars have been invested in that process, the new owner will reap the benefits from the extensive TLC.

This Charger is more than a pretty face, with its mechanical combination promising an exhilarating but relatively effortless driving experience. The drivetrain is freshly rebuilt and numbers-matching. Power is derived from a 440ci V8, with its 375hp and 482 ft/lbs of torque feeding through a four-speed A833 manual transmission to a 3.54 Dana 60 rear end. Those worried about physical effort will welcome the power assistance for the steering and brakes. This classic has genuine muscle car credentials, confirmed by its ability to scorch the ¼-mile in 14.2 seconds on its way to 123mph. The seller supplies no specific information on how this beauty runs or drives, but the recent attention and overall presentation suggest it should be a turnkey proposition with power to burn.

The stunning presentation doesn’t end when we open this Charger’s doors because the interior is in as-new condition. The seller performed a full retrim using parts from Legendary Auto Interiors. They strived for originality, with the upholstered surfaces wearing Charcoal vinyl. The carpet and headliner are new, while the dash and pad are perfect. The faux woodgrain adds a touch of class to an interior featuring ultra-cool items like a pistol-grip shifter and a Tick-Tock-Tach. Those components are functional, while the pushbutton AM radio adds to occupant comfort.

Sometimes, I feel almost guilty writing about classics like this 1970 Charger R/T because no glaring faults jump out in the listing or supplied images. However, it is worth noting this is not the first time this classic has hit the market. It failed to sell at a previous auction with a single bid of $90,000. Will it sell this time? Only time will tell. One thing is sure, and that is that I will envy the new owner.

Comments

  1. Moparman Moparman Member

    Great write up, Adam! This is indeed a beauty and should make the next owner VERY happy; also putting the same silly grin on their face that appeared upon mine when I saw this! GLWTA!! :-)

    Like 16
  2. Shuttle Guy Shuttle Guy Member

    Beautiful car! But I’m flabbergasted at the amount people are asking for them. Especially the orange one here I just looked at.

    Like 11
    • Gary

      The pricing on 2nd Gen chargers has been climbing since the 1990s. $85-120K is common for an R/T. Base 318 Chargers can go for 1/2 that.

      Like 5
      • Yogibear

        I sold my 70 Charger 500 for 55k a year ago on Hemmings. I was originally seeking 85k, to which was high, but that said it was a Charger in exceptional condition,. Number 1 condition. I purchased mine from Southern Motors in Clarkston, Michigan. They sell only collector grade vehicles. 90 fir this is reasonable, especially when it is a 4 speed and a Pistol grip shift. Bad things are the buddy seat(bench) no console or air conditioning

        Like 10
  3. Yogibear

    The “Gator top” was first available after mid model year in 69 a d only available on Dodge and Plymouth vehicles.
    The top was a brown gator synthetic vinyl top with a slight green tinting. After the success of this option, Dodge and Plymouth extended the option known as V1G(fender tag) to it’s other B and E body models for 1970.
    Thus is coming from research, I found online. Fewer than 5 percent (350) Gator Topped vehicles were produced for 1970.

    Like 5
    • Bub

      Thanks for the facts Yogi.
      Personally I like a bench and stand alone stick. But I agree, A/C is a must these days.

      Like 6
  4. Tom

    440 RT, four speed, bench seat and vent window s. Checks all the boxes.

    Like 6
  5. DonC

    My 70 Challenger R/T had the ralleye gauges (all 4 were large diameter). This Charger doesn’t have those. So it’s still an R/T and the two models are different? Or is this Charger not an R/T? Just curious

    Like 1
  6. Ffred

    I like the color, there can’t be very many of them made.

    I wanted a scat pack Challenger in 2015 so I sold my 1970 Charger R/T to help pay for it. My car needed lower quarters and a rear window filler pan,not the correct name but close enough. It was 440/727 powered w/ac, stripe delete, burnt orange in and out with a black gator grain vinyl roof. Beautiful car. Sold it for 22K and of course the demand for Chargers has went of a cliff. The scat pack is long gone but it was replaced with a black Hellcat Challenger.

    Like 4
  7. Big Bear 🇺🇸

    Wow . Wow. What a beautiful Mopar!!! The Gator top is sooo 70’s which is cool. I seen 2 in my lifetime up close. They are a rare option. The way this Charger sits it worth the big bucks. This is a investment and most likely be a trailer queen. To go top shows win trophy 1st place be happy. I like the buddy seat and that tall pistol grip! Now the AC can be installed with those aftermarket kit or done by a professional. Or go factory set up and try to find a complete Mopar AC kit. I don’t think it will hurt the price. We know the next lucky owner is going to have a Hugh smile shifting those gears!! 😁..🐻🇺🇸

    Like 1

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