Sometimes, an owner will look at their desirable classic and choose to change its color because they don’t like the factory shade. That is part of the story with this 1971 Dodge Challenger, but the peeling paint covers a car that is structurally sound and in good mechanical health. That would allow the new owner to enjoy it immediately while tackling the project build as time and circumstances permit. The seller started their work, but the Challenger needs a new owner to see it through to completion. Therefore, you will find it listed here on eBay in Puyallup, Washington. They set a BIN of $32,000, leaving the option to make an offer.
Dodge introduced the First Generation Challenger in 1970, utilizing the same E-Body platform that spawned the Plymouth Barracuda. Like its cousin, the Challenger’s styling gives it an inherently muscular appearance, which is accentuated if the owner fits larger wheels. The history of this car is unclear, but it is evident that a previous owner treated it to a color change. The peeling Blue reveals traces of the factory’s high-impact Green Go, which would have looked stunning teamed with the White vinyl top. It isn’t uncommon for classics to undergo such a change, but it is less so when an owner chooses to cover a premium paint shade. The panels are straight, but the best news is the car’s lack of significant rust. The trunk pan may have a few pinholes, but the underside shots suggest the floors and rails are rock-solid. Several small trim pieces have vanished, but the Challenger features new bumpers. The glass looks good, and a set of spotless Rallye wheels round out the exterior.
Buyers faced an impressive array of engines to power their new ’71 Challenger, but this car’s original owner selected the L-Code 383ci V8 producing 275hp. They teamed this with a three-speed A-727 automatic transmission and power steering. The company produced more potent versions of the Challenger, but this car’s ability to cover the ¼ mile in 16.3 seconds would have satisfied most owners. It is unclear whether this vehicle is numbers-matching, but it is in excellent mechanical health. The seller recently treated the transmission to a professional rebuild and replaced the steering box, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, pads, and brake hoses. The front suspension received a rebuild, and there are new springs under the back, new shocks on all corners, and a new dual exhaust. The results were worth the time and expense, with this classic running and driving well. The new owner could immediately slip behind the wheel while contemplating how they would proceed with their build.
This Challenger’s interior is a surprise packet because its presentation is better than I expected. It is serviceable and would take little to lift it to a higher level. There are cracks in the dash pad, but replacements retail for under $200. Some faux woodgrain pieces exhibit deterioration, but I had no difficulty locating complete DIY kits for around $100. The most challenging part of this interior could be deciding what to do with the seats. Their blue cloth upholstery looks pretty good, but it isn’t original. The Tag indicates they originally wore White vinyl, which would have tied together nicely with the vinyl top color. If the buyer chooses a faithful restoration, they will undoubtedly elect to source replacement covers. Aftermarket additions include a dash-mounted tach and a radio/cassette player. The original owner ordered this classic with air conditioning and a console, with the first item making life on the road pretty pleasant on warm days.
I’ve always felt that Dodge hit the nail on the head when designing its First Generation Challenger. Even in its most basic specifications, it looks muscular and has a sense of purpose. I am not alone in my opinion, with values climbing steadily recently. Restored to a high standard, it could easily command a value beyond $50,000. It will take work to reach that standard, but it is worth noting the buyer won’t be sinking thousands of hours and dollars into metal replacement. This one looks like it could be a rewarding project, particularly if the new owner reinstated its stunning original paint shade. Would you do that, or do you have other ideas?
This is a very nice Mopar project. And yes I would paint it FJ6 Sassy grass green. I knew someone growing up who had a 71 Challenger white top and interior with the FJ6 oh it was a 440-6 4 speed. Very cool car. This one can be very cool also. Since it has the 383-2 set up. It can be beef up changing the cam,intake to 4 bbl etc. I feel if there is no hidden surprise $25,000 to $30,000 is a better price. Good luck to the next owner. 🇺🇸🐻🇺🇸
Eye watering BIN. I had a ’71 318 decades ago. Sold it to a kid who promptly wrecked it. Se la vie
$32K + $18K = $50K. I’m afraid it will take much more than $18K to restore. Sharpen your pencils everyone. Give common sense some due diligence here.
Your story line should actually read in: In 1969 for the 1970 Model Year Dodge introduced the Challenger..” Production of these vehicles started in August 1969 at the Hantramck Assembly Plant, Plant code 04030, Street Address: 7900 Joseph Campau, Hamtramck, Mi, Also some “E” Body vehicles were built at the Chrysler Los Angeles, Ca Plant which stopped production in 1971.
I’m not understanding why most people insist in turning each listing on here into a trailer queen. The condition of this Challenger is already so much better than most of what’s still out there in the wild. I’d say put some good paint on this one, make certain the mechanicals are solid, and do whatever creature comforts are necessary, while keeping it true to form, of course. Then, I’d drive the hound out of it like it’s 1976!
Thank You. Well said. Total upside investment. Yes it would be a fun car to drive likes its 1976 LOL
That GREEN is all Dodge. Whenever you see that color on a car , you instantly think Dodge!!! At least I do?/