Real Deal Hemi: 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T

While it may not necessarily be the Holy Grail of Chrysler models, this 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T is genuinely special. We see a wide variety of these classics crossing our desks at Barn Finds, but the first owner’s decision to order it with a Hemi under the hood helps it to stand out in the crowd. It presents impressively as a survivor-grade vehicle, with no major paint or panel shortcomings. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Challenger listed here on eBay in Pompano Beach, Florida. Of course, classics of this caliber are rarely cheap, with the seller setting their price at $240,000 OBO.

I was once asked to compile a list for a hypothetical dream garage. The rules were simple. I could choose any car from the post-war era through 2000, but the list could include only one car from each decade. Some choices were no-brainers, but the 1970s proved difficult. If looks alone were the determining factor, I struggled to look beyond a 1978 Pontiac Trans Am in Martinique Blue. However, if a more “total” package was the aim, I couldn’t ignore any of Chrysler’s E-Body offerings with a Hemi under the hood. Therefore, I found myself irresistibly drawn to this 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T the moment I spotted the first photo. You could never use the word “subtle” to describe this classic. Its Go Mango paint is as “in-your-face” as it gets, with the color complemented by the Black vinyl top and stripes. Although not stated expressly, the impression conveyed by the seller is that this Challenger is a genuine survivor. The close-up shots reveal a few minor marks and imperfections, but they are too insignificant to justify restoration. The vinyl looks excellent, the panels are straight, and there is no evidence of rust. With sparkling trim and aggressive Rallye wheels, this R/T is guaranteed to turn heads.

The term “legendary” is one of the most overused in the classic world, but there can be few better to describe Chrysler’s 426ci Hemi. This monster motor raised the bar in the performance world, producing power and torque figures that made any vehicle with one under the hood a genuine muscle car. The first owner ordered this car with a Hemi, an A-727 TorqueFlite transmission, and power brakes. With a factory-confirmed 425hp and 490 ft/lbs of torque at their disposal, this R/T should easily convert its tires into smoke if the driver is heavy with their right foot. The seller confirms that this Challenger’s Hemi isn’t numbers-matching. However, it has been validated as a date-correct warranty replacement engine block, which is the next best thing. The remaining mechanical components are original, and although not stated specifically, it appears that this Challenger is a turnkey proposition.

The interior images further reinforce how special this Challenger is. The first owner ordered it trimmed in White vinyl with contrasting Black carpet. It features bucket seats, a console, a Rallye gauge cluster with a factory tachometer, an AM radio, and lashings of woodgrain. The vinyl isn’t marked or discolored, and there is no evidence of splits or tears. The woodgrain appears virtually flawless, as are the dash, pad, and console. If viewed purely as a high-end survivor, this interior is comfortably acceptable in its current form.

I’m not saying this to court controversy, but stating it as a fact. Although Dodge no longer produces the Challenger, you can still walk into a dealership and slap down the cash for a shiny new Charger R/T. If that doesn’t appeal, the market is awash with final-year Challenger R/Ts that will cost considerably less than this 1970 example. They will offer comparable performance, greater comfort and refinement, and with significantly better brakes and suspension, vastly superior handling and safety. That sounds like a compelling argument to ignore this Challenger, but that isn’t the case. It is rough, rugged, and unrefined. However, it has maintained an undeniable presence fifty-six years after it left the line, and values have climbed substantially as enthusiasts and investors recognize the part that the Hemi Chrysler models have played in automotive history. I question whether a newer example will ever achieve that feat. Therefore, I’m not advocating for the newer car. I’d take this one in a heartbeat. Wouldn’t you?