From a performance standpoint, the first-generation Dodge Challenger only had a couple of really great years, based solely on engine availability.  But the looks department remained strong for the duration, as the basic body style stayed pretty much the same overall until the car’s demise at the end of the 1974 model.  A new offering for ’72 was the Rallye, which replaced the R/T in the lineup and featured some non-functional vents on the front fenders from which stripes extended down the sides, such as this one in Oklahoma City for sale here on eBay.  This E-Body is a project but seems to have potential, so if you’ve been hunting for a Mopar to restore it’s probably worth considering.  So far, 3 bids have taken the price up to $11,200, enough already to exchange hands as there’s no reserve.

Outside, the base Challenger got both a new front grille and a revised rear-end treatment, including four recessed individual lights in the back with the lenses placed at odd angles, a feature the car kept until the end of first-gen production.  The seller says this is a one-owner car that was parked inside a barn in 1980 and only recently removed, with all of the original panels remaining except for the driver’s door which was replaced after it got hit.  A minimal amount of rust is mentioned, and although the exterior looks like it needs a moderate amount of attention this one doesn’t really come across as all that bad on the outside.

The biggest changes for the ’72 Challenger could be found under the hood, or couldn’t be might be a more accurate statement as gone were all those big blocks that could be had from the prior year, leaving only a 225 cubic-inch Slant 6 along with a pair of small block V8 choices, the 318 and 340.  But the seller’s car had its drivetrain swapped out back in ’75, which we can tell from the fender tag originally consisted of a 318 (E44) and three-speed manual (D13).  In place now are a 383 and a 4-speed stick shift, but with the missing 4-barrel the engine’s obviously not running plus there’s also no word on whether or not it will still turn.

A peek inside reveals varying amounts of disarray, with possibly those door panels salvageable if they get an intense cleanup but the carpet, dash, headliner, and at least front seats are all showing plenty of wear and tear.   Sure, a 1970 or ’71 would be a more desirable choice, but the 1972 Challenger still had the good looks and I agree with the seller that this one’s worth restoring, especially if the price doesn’t climb a whole lot higher.  What do your thoughts here?