The Dodge Challenger debuted in 1970 as the last of the entries into the “pony car” market. It shared a brand-new E-body platform with the Plymouth Barracuda, though no sheet metal was common. The SE (Special Edition) was the high-end model with a smaller (i.e., more formal) rear glass. And the R/T was the top performance model. The seller’s ’70 version was an SE, but the R/T portion is a tribute as the car was built with a 318 cubic inch V8. Located in Lewiston, Maine, this is an older restoration with a lot of new parts and is ready for the road. It’s available here on eBay but we’re not sure how firm the $29,995 price is.
Dodge Challenger sales reached 76,000 units in 1970, about 50% higher than the equally new Barracuda. That would be both cars’ best sales year together as a decline began in 1971 that continued through the end of the production line in 1974. The seller’s car should be one of 5,873 produced as an SE model with a V8 engine. But if this car had been an SE R/T when new with a 440 V8, the total would have been 875 units. So, is this # 876?
While a “crude” restoration was done on this automobile in the 1990s, more work has been accomplished. It’s 90% rust-free, with the remaining corrosion being in the front fenders. Replaced pieces and parts include the rear quarters, rear frame rails, trunk floor, and other metal elements. The mechanical list is extensive and also consists of the radiator, brakes, gas tank, fuel pump, suspension components, wheels and tires, and more. Key gauges work with a few shortcuts that were done well by the seller.
Besides the 440 V8, a 727 TorqueFlite automatic is onboard along with an 8 ¾ Sure Grip rear end. This is far from being a show car, but it should do well if perfection doesn’t count. The front seats look to have been redone as the upholstery doesn’t seem to quite match the rear seat. No rotisserie was involved in rebuilding this car, so it was redone up on a lift, and the undercarriage looks very clean. The seller has photos of that process that can be shared – and no trades will be entertained. Add the remaining body work and paint, and you’d be really ready to go.
Another “tribute”!!!! Arrrrgggh!