Some project cars leave owners with decisions surrounding what path to choose. Some see a faithful restoration as the best option, while others opt for a custom approach. The inherent value of vehicles like this 1969 Dodge Charger R/T would seem to make the first option seem obvious, although they still command attention and impressive prices in modified form. If you have a clear vision for this solid classic, you will find it listed here on eBay in Allen, Texas. Bidding sits below the reserve at $16,400, but the bidding intensity suggests there could be a way to go before the hammer falls.

There’s a bit to unpack with this Charger, and it appears it is someone’s stalled project. Judging by the accumulated surface corrosion, the work didn’t stop yesterday. The seller believes it started life wearing Code T5 Copper paint with a vinyl top, but someone commenced a color change by repainting the engine bay in Hemi Orange. Considering the work required to whip the car into shape, pulling the engine to reinstate the original shade or refinishing everything in Orange to a higher standard is viable. Rust can be a massive problem with these classics, and we’ve seen some pretty sad examples at Barn Finds. However, the news with this one seems to be highly positive. The usual penetrating rust is developing around the back window lower corners, and there may be a small area on the passenger side lower rear quarter panel. Otherwise, this gem appears rock-solid. The floors and rails carry surface corrosion requiring attention, but I don’t see anything justifying the grinder or welder. It could be the ideal candidate for a DIY build if this proves accurate. It requires an in-person inspection to confirm which trim pieces are salvageable, and although most of the tinted glass looks excellent, the windshield is cracked.

Before we delve into the specifics of this Charger’s mechanical configuration, it is worth noting that it isn’t numbers-matching. The loss of the original motor could impact this classic’s potential future value, although history shows that the Second Generation Charger R/T commands impressive sales prices, even in modified form. This car features a 440ci V8 and a three-speed A-727 automatic transmission. There were no genuinely slow versions of the ’69 Charger R/T, and even though this was the least potent configuration, it still effectively used its 375hp to launch the car through the ¼-mile in 14.3 seconds. Most readers will be unsurprised that this V8 doesn’t run, and it is unclear when it last did. If its V8 turns freely, bolting on the missing peripheral components might see it roar back to life with little effort. As I often say in cases like this, budgeting for a rebuild would be wise. After all, it is better to have the money and not need it than to need it and not have it.

This Charger’s interior is a mixed bag, leaving the winning bidder with decisions to make. It is missing its carpet and factory radio but is otherwise complete. There are some original trim items like the seats, but the Black vinyl items like door trims are a later addition. It requires at least a partial restoration, and with the seatcovers splitting, the buyer could choose to complete the transition to an all Black interior. The console might respond to careful cleaning, as will most dash components. It isn’t loaded with optional extras, suggesting the original owner focused heavily on outright performance.

It can sometimes be difficult to gauge how popular or desirable a classic car is, but this Charger R/T leaves little doubt. Eighteen people have submitted fifty-one bids, indicating they like what they see. It looks tired and unloved, but the lack of significant penetrating rust makes it a prime candidate for a straightforward restoration or custom build. What would its fate be if you found it in your workshop?