1970 Dodge ChallengerNothing about the Challenger was mediocre. In fact, the color schemes like Plum Crazy and HEMI Orange were all about performance, with those classic...
1970 Dodge Challenger
Nothing about the Challenger was mediocre. In fact, the color schemes like Plum Crazy and HEMI Orange were all about performance, with those classic bumblebee stripes making it look absolutely stunning on the road. The 426 HEMI engine, dubbed "the Elephant Motor," powered the Challenger, as did the smaller 2.2-liter Slant Six. The powertrain simply blew people away and made the Challenger not only rise but beat most challenges. Though this version lasted just five years from 1970-74, it remains one of the most powerful debuts in the auto bazaar.
For consignment, a 2-owner numbers matching, barn find ready for capable hands to bring it back to its original debut beauty. Some rust, lots of fading, and interior work are beckoning the capable hands of a restorer for the perfect project car to provide a challenge, uh...ummm Challenger!
Exterior
Dark burnt orange well faded and showing numerous areas of surface rust are noted on this non muscle version of the 1970 Challenger. A smooth ductless hood and crushed oval grille design with dual flanking headlights give this car a menacing look. The black vinyl top is missing, as is all badging save for the front grille. Some patchwork is seen throughout, and the driver's door seems to have taken the brunt of the suffering on the surface rust front. 1970 is the Fratzog era for the Dodge moniker and this car has it placed firmly on the front center of the hood. Window trimmings are still good. Invasive rust has had its way with rear quarters behind the wheel wells. For the rear, full length taillights, and rear bumper are attached and show fading and wear. Standard Dodge deep dish (W13) wheel covers are on all 4 corners, and as was for the entry level 6-cylinder 2 door, the gas cap is body matching.
Interior
High back tuck and roll inserted buckets are in front, and a rear bench is presenting in back, all draped in burnt orange vinyl. Cracks, rips and mold are seen on these surfaces. Door panel plastic has sustained extensive water damage, and carpets and headliner are in definite need of replacement. The original dash with standard instrument panel containing one large pod for the 120-mph speedometer, and to its right, four smaller pods containing the gauges for fuel, engine temp, alternator and, the clock. Steering wheel, with adjustment column, and center console are installed all in burnt orange.
Drivetrain
A 6-cylinder in inline format and slant block configuration is under the hood. Here we see all original and unrestored equipment, definitely the basic Challenger with its 225 ci size, 1-barrel carburetor, and producing g 145HP. An A903 3-speed automatic transmission is fitted on back. Way back is a 7.25 inch geared axle fitted with 2.76:1 gears. Consigner states engine does run, however is rough idle.
Undercarriage
Typical surface rust is seen.
Drive-Ability
Consigner states car will start but runs rough.
All muscle cars had their “grocery getter” versions, and this one is one of 9,929 built that year. An example for the ambitious restorer, to bring it back, or to make it an “elephant engine style” R/T 440 6 barrel. The world is your oyster with this barn find. Put your creative cap on, and head on down to Classic Auto Mall… I “Challenger” you!