The Dodge Challenger, a latecomer to the pony car scene, debuted in 1970. Despite its late arrival, it quickly gained popularity, outselling its corporate sibling, the Plymouth Barracuda. Among the Challenger models, the convertible version is particularly sought after, especially those equipped with the legendary 426 Hemi engine.
However, most convertible Challengers were powered by the more common 318-cube V8. One such car, assembled in August 1969, has a unique history. After passing through the hands of two owners, it was sold at auction in 2003 for $22,000.
The car’s original owner kept it for 18 years before passing it on to another Mopar enthusiast. The second owner enjoyed the car for several years before deciding to sell it. The auction in 2003 marked the end of this particular Challenger’s journey with its original owners.
A 1970 Dodge Challenger, once a modest convertible with a 318 engine, has undergone a dramatic transformation. Its previous owner, a Minnesota resident who later moved to Arizona, invested considerable time and money to turn it into a powerful muscle car.
After acquiring the car in 2015, the owner started a comprehensive overhaul in 2018. This included installing a stroked 426 Hemi engine with a 535 cubic inch displacement, dual four-barrel carburetors, and hemispherical heads. The car also received a Dana 60 high-performance rear axle, a reinforced chassis, and a fresh coat of paint in its original Top Banana color.
Despite its impressive performance, the Challenger was not driven extensively. In 2023, after the owner’s passing, the car was sold to another enthusiast in Arizona for $75,000. The new owner added a five speed manual transmission but didn’t make any significant modifications to the engine or suspension.
The Challenger is now for sale in Ferndale, Washington, with an asking price of $105,000. It has a clean history and has been well maintained. While it may not be as valuable as an original 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T Hemi, it offers a unique opportunity for a muscle car enthusiast to own a powerful and well equipped vehicle.
The car’s history and modifications make it a desirable collector’s item. Its previous owner’s dedication to preserving the Challenger’s original character while enhancing its performance is evident in the meticulous attention to detail that went into the restoration.
The car’s current owner has also shown a commitment to maintaining its condition and ensuring that it continues to run and drive as well as it did when it was new.
For those seeking a powerful and distinctive muscle car that combines classic styling with modern performance, the Hemi powered Challenger is an excellent choice. Its unique history and modifications make it a standout example of its kind.
