The 1972 model year was the mid-way point for the production of the original Dodge Challenger (1970-74). Sales were on the decline as the muscle car side of its market was slumping across the industry. A 340 V8 was now the biggest engine available, compared to powerplants up to the 426 Hemi just the year before. This Challenger no longer has its original drivetrain, but a 440 with a TorqueFlite is waiting in the wings. Originally painted Top Banana, the body is largely in good condition, especially the floorboards. Located in Valrico, Florida, this rolling project is available here on craigslist for a firm price of $10,500. Thanks, Pat L., for another cool Mopar find!
After a banner first year at 76,935 units, the Challenger was down to 22,919 copies two years later. Two-thirds of the cars that left the factory had the basic 318 cubic inch V8, which is what the VIN says was in the seller’s car initially. At some point, that motor and transmission were extracted and a 440 secured to go in its place. That motor sits on a trailer and looks as though it’s been out of circulation for a while, aka might need rebuilding. Aftermarket headers seem to be attached. There is no mention if any shoring up of the front suspension has been done to accommodate the additional weight of the 440 if the buyer should decide to continue down that path.
Unlike other rolling Challengers and Barracudas we’ve seen lately, the body of this one is encouraging. The right front fender looks to have been replaced and the left side rear quarter may have been repaired as a coat of red primer is present. The car could have had a vinyl top to begin with given the contrast between the roof and the rest of the car. The rear window glass is missing along with the hood and taillights, although we’re told the car comes with a bunch of parts that may or may not include these items.
The floorboards look practically brand new, showing how vibrant the Top Banana paint would have looked back in the day. The seats are not pictured, but the seller says he has them although they need reupholstering. On the other hand, the door panels look new, too. The dash has been disassembled and we’re told all the parts are present somewhere, including the steering column in the trunk.
Unfortunately, the title is missing, so if dealing with getting a new title through the DMV isn’t your cup of tea, another project Challenger can likely be found. The 1970s Dodge Challengers have retained their resale value more than others and a top-notch edition even with a 318 can be worth upwards of $40,000. Given that the 440 V8 supplied here is an unknown, maybe sourcing another small block is the way to go and shoot for going back to stock in the end.
Unusual to find them with nice floorpans, looks like a good place to start- except for the title.
Throw out the what if price restored as a salvage title always hurts resale as well as NOM.
I like the floor pans though.
The DMW and many states don’t work with one on titling like they used too.
How hard is it to not misplace a title? Unless I hear a very believable story, the process is dubious at best. Worst case scenario? Someone figures out it was their rust heap pilfered from their back 40 and now YOU, the new “owner” who has fully restored the car, has the cops involved. Old owner wants it back. The old owner who had an eyesore for decades, “patiently” waits for you, “new owner” to restore the car, then he calls the cops. Moral of the story, unless you don’t mind giving BillyBob your fully restored Challenger, think twice about buying something that is not 101% legit.
It’s easy…you get the VIN number and ask your insurance agent for a quote. If it’s hot it’ll come right up. Check with your state to be sure, but if the owner is the seller then a good automotive notary familiar with the procedure will get you everything you need to get a replacement title.
On the other hand, if he’s selling it “for a (deceased) friend”, run like the wind!
My scenario is far fetched, but in that odd rare case, the car wouldn’t be listed as stolen when you bought it from Clay Boy. Only listed as stolen after Billy Bob sees what is going on and calls the coppers after he sees a full nuts and bolts resto. Who knows, maybe Clay Boy is in on it with Billy Bob from the start. I would only buy a non titled car from the registered owner who had at least some documentation to prove ownership, and even then, I would get a signature and something in writing to that account as well.
I bought a 66 delta without a title. Here in Colorado we can apply for an in-lue of a bond title. You have to have the cops verify the vin. Car came up stolen. Luckily I had a notarized bill of sale. I didn’t go to jail! But long story short the guy who originally sold car wasn’t satisfied with the trade he made, so he reported car stolen. He eventually admitted this and was charged with trying to influence a city official and false reporting. He got off with community service. But will say this he is an honorable guy he even gave the car back to us. With the title.
I go a ninja motorcycle years ago left in a garage no keys no title, guy left it, went back to Ireland, I got an assurity bond I believe it was called. I fixed up bike and after 1 or 2 years bond expired and it was mine, it was a great bike and I made money selling it after Connecticut title in my name.
Getting a title is not that hard, even here in Commiefornication. I got two old dirt bikes recently and ran the VIN’s, just filled out two forms, and had the CHP verify the numbers. Officer even came back and said the number was one digit off and corrected it on the spot, had two titles in the mail a couple of weeks later. As long as its not stolen, its pretty easy to get one.
Speak for yourself on that one. I bought a Trailblazer from a Used Car Dealer the end of February 2020. May I called to find out where it is. They mailed it March 2 I was told. I applied for a lost title. I’m still waiting.
Tags expired I can’t drive it and I can’t sell it.
If the current owner ever had a title in his name he just applies for a lost title and gets another one sent in a week and sometimes while you’re waiting. If he never had a title in his name I’d pass on it.
Everyone is gaga over the floor boards!! Lol!
Puhleeze!! As the previous owner of a ’70 big block Challenger, which I wish I’d never sold to by a Corvette, the floor boards are the least of this wreck’s issues!! If the car spent most of its time on the west coast or other non-rust producing environment the interior floor boards will most likely be pristine! What’s underneath? Where’s the title? That 440 is probably a non-running prop that never sat a day in that ’72. Just sayin’!! Good luck!;
Both fenders have been replaced; the louvers are for Rallye Challengers. It would be interesting to know if this was a Rallye car or the guy was lucky to find good fenders with the louvers.