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Rust Repaired: 1970 Dodge Challenger

If you are searching for a Mopar project where some of the “heavy lifting” has already been completed, then this 1970 Dodge Challenger might be worth a serious look. The majority of the rust issues have now been addressed, leaving the next owner to add their own touches to the car. Located in Hull, Iowa, the Challenger has been listed for sale here on eBay. Bidding has reached $10,100 in what is a No Reserve auction.

The Challenger started life finished in Dark Tan, and there is still evidence of that color visible in certain areas around the car. The owner says that the car is structurally sound, and new floors have recently been welded in. This includes the brackets for seat mounts, along with the mount for the console. The body only has a few fairly minor rust issues to address, and the worst of these is a small spot on the firewall, along with a spot on the lower driver’s side quarter panel, and a few spots on the trunk drip rail. Otherwise, this is a very solid body, while the trim, chrome, and glass all look quite decent. One point to note is that the wheels that are fitted to the car are not included in the sale. The car will be fitted with a set of Rally wheels and tires from a ’70 ‘Cuda.

The Challenger started life with a 318ci V8 under the hood, and while there is still a 318 there, it isn’t original. This one is a 1973 engine, and it doesn’t run. In fact, the engine doesn’t actually turn. It will also need engine mounts, so I’m not sure what’s holding it in place. In addition to the 318, the Challenger features a 3-speed TorqueFlite transmission and power steering. So, it looks like the next owner will have a bit of mechanical work to tackle, but one positive is the fact that the car has been fitted with a new fuel tank.

There’s no getting around the fact that the interior is going to need nothing short of a full restoration. The original Saddle Tan trim is looking pretty tatty, and every upholstered surface will require replacement. On the plus side, at least the interior is complete, and items such as the gauges appear to be in good condition. In addition, the Challenger is fitted with factory air conditioning

This looks like it would be a great project car, and the next owner could definitely either choose to restore the car close to its original specs or could follow a path that better suits their individual taste. As a No Reserve listing, it is quite tempting.

Comments

  1. Avatar Dustin Lisner

    Could be a cool car when finished, that 318 and torque flight have gotta go for a 340 and a 4 speed in my eyes though.

    Like 5
  2. Avatar FordGuy1972 Member

    Seems like a lot of money for what’s basically a roller with a shredded interior. Oh, I forgot……………It’s a Mopar. One thing I don’t care for is a seller who shows a car with nice wheels on it that are not included in the sale. Put on the crappy wheels and bald tires that go with the car.

    Like 16
  3. bobhess bobhess Member

    Weren’t the Rally wheels standard on the ’70 model…? Always thought the shown wheels should be on a Buick. Rough but good bones.

    Like 0
    • Avatar Grandpa Lou

      Oh goodness no! Standard was steel wheels and dog dish covers. Today too many young people who were not even alive in those days have misconceptions about the way things were. Many think that all cars were high performance and all decked out with extras. The reality was much more benign.

      Like 3
  4. Avatar lc

    Rust is rust and I think there’s more here than meets the eyes. Be prepared to dig deep into your pockets. The VIN, JH23G0E115515, “G” shows this car came with a 318 so I think “R/T” is just a nice badge addition. No cutouts in the rear valance for dual exhaust. Steering wheel looks like it may have come with the engine of the ’73 car…. but I guess if you have to have one just know what your buying.

    Like 1
    • Avatar Grandpa Lou

      The problem lays with the reality that the market is driven around value and perceived value. If this was priced like it looks to the casual observer, then all of what you said would matter not. Unfortunately, because the big money hungry types have invaded the hobby, you need to be mindful of all of this. I miss the hobby of old.

      Like 4
  5. Avatar Del

    I am a Mopar guy but I will tell you this is not worth 10 grand.

    I pity anyone that buys this thing.

    Like 2
  6. Avatar Troy s

    A cheap hot rod bought on a newspaper route budget, judging by the headers and flipped air cleaner lid, ages ago, could be nice again. Not hardly as clapped out as some we see here.
    Don’t like the whole wheels not included thing though.

    Like 3
  7. Avatar Gaspumpchas

    Rust repaired and there are still rust issues? Rot in firewall?? Mud and primer will hide many sins. Take a magnet and looker over good. And i’m with fordguy, why post it with the rallys and not include?? Caveat emptor,. Plenty of fraud on fleabay.
    Cheers
    GPC

    Like 1
  8. Avatar George Mattar

    10 grand for a 318 tan car. Huh. Big deal he did the floors. These cars rot every where. Pathetic build quality.

    Like 1
  9. Avatar TimM

    I always wanted one of these with a 340 and a 4 speed!! It’s one of the fastest setups!! It’s no reserve too!! Hope it doesn’t get to much higher!!

    Like 0
  10. Avatar Jon Hellinga

    This vehicle is literally 10 minutes from me! If anyone wants me to look at it for them, let me know.

    Like 1
  11. Avatar SquirrelyGig

    Sellers quotes:
    “Only rust I’ve found” (Must have a serious vision impairment?) & “Nearly ready to slap some paint on” (Maybe if you’re building a turd barge!) .🤣🤣😆
    I could add plenty more, but I think I’ll leave it @ that.

    Like 0

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