The Coronet, an iconic Dodge model, often gets overshadowed despite its significant contributions to the brand’s heritage. Throughout its history, the Coronet played pivotal roles, such as serving as the basis for the development of the ’66 Charger and inspiring the Challenger name with models like the Silver Challenger in 1959. Notably, it introduced the Road/Track package in 1967 and the Super Bee in 1968, Dodge’s response to the Plymouth Road Runner.
However, the 1970 Coronet is often overlooked, and there are reasons for this. With the arrival of Dodge’s Challenger and Plymouth’s Barracuda, both in their third generations, the Coronet faced stiff competition at the height of the horsepower wars. Nonetheless, it played its part, particularly in the R/T trim, emphasizing performance.
In 1970, Dodge produced only 2,515 Coronet R/Ts, a fraction compared to the production numbers of the Charger and Challenger R/Ts. Of these, a mere 16 featured the legendary 426 Hemi engine, with the majority powered by the 440 Magnum. Additionally, a small number of Coronets received the high-performance Six-Pack variant of the 440 Magnum, making them even rarer finds today.
While the Coronet may not have garnered as much attention as its counterparts, its rarity, especially in convertible form, places it in a league akin to the highly sought-after Plymouth Cuda convertible Hemi. Indeed, rarity alone has driven the value of these vehicles skyward, as evidenced by the steep asking prices in today’s collector car market.
One notable example, a 1970 Coronet R/T with the 440-6 engine and automatic transmission, underwent extensive restoration, fetching considerable attention and a high bid of $200,000. Despite not being a survivor, this meticulously restored Coronet showcases the enduring appeal of these classic muscle cars.
