The Dodge Challenger was the last entry in the “pony car” market credited to the popular Ford Mustang (though the Plymouth Barracuda arrived 17 days earlier). It was in production for five years (1970 to 1974), sharing its new E-body platform with the ‘Cuda. The R/T was the hottest model, with a 383 cubic inch V8 as standard fare. This example was upgraded to a 440 and is a running project, mostly with cosmetic issues. From Notasulga, Alabama, this once-flashy Mopar is available here on eBay where the reserve is unmet at $15,600 with a Buy It Now price set at $28,000.

First-year sales figures were encouraging at 77,000 units, though a far cry from Mustang’s shrinking tally, which was still the market leader at 190,000 copies. Dodge assembled 2,800 R/T coupes with a 440 motor that includes the seller’s car. We’re told this Challenger is 1 of 800 made, but we don’t know how the seller comes to that conclusion. It’s not matching numbers but the Magnum V8 is period-correct. There is no fender tag or broadcast sheet.

Along with the U-Code, 375 rated horsepower powerplant, this Dodge has an automatic transmission, and a Sure-Grip differential. The engine’s output is likely greater because it has an upgraded camshaft. We’re told the Mopar runs and drives well, so you could begin the restoration while still using it. The seller believes this Challenger was treated as an extreme makeover perhaps 30 years ago. That includes the floors in the passenger compartment and the trunk.

More recent work has been done which equates to a newer radiator, gas tank, tires, and brakes. To help move this project along, the seller is throwing in a restored dash pad. The vehicle is registered in Alabama but is titled in Pennsylvania. There is some rust that will need eradication, but it is a 55-year-old machine that seems worthy of the work it needs.