This 1970 Dodge Challenger is a beautiful temptress
20180621192900)
1970 Dodge Challenger
The new Challenger appears to be a big hit for Dodge. The model also carries the performance torch for the brand in SRT, Hellcat, and Demon forms. While it’s larger and more comfortable, the Challenger is positioned as a competitor to the smaller Mustang and Camaro in the modern muscle coupe category.
Of course, this was also the case when the first generation was offered in 1970. It was a late addition to the pony car class, coming five years after the first Mustang. The larger Challenger was a slightly more practical option and more closely aligned with the Mercury Cougar in the higher-end pony car class. Alas, that late start and pending emissions and fuel economy standards meant the first-gen Challenger had a relatively short four-year run. Just over 53,000 coupes were built for 1970, the first model year.
This week’s eBay find is claimed to be an 87,000-mile car with one repaint in the original blue. It certainly looks nice inside and out in the photos provided. There is little mechanical detail provided, but it is said to possess its original “numbers matching” engine, a 318-cubic-inch (5.2-liter) V-8 with automatic transmission. Photos show a very clean engine compartment, so it’s worth asking if the drivetrain has been rebuilt at some point. The short description on this car leaves a lot to be desired. Also a bit confusing, the base V-8 (the first upgrade over the inline six) is reported to have generated 230 horsepower, but the sticker on the air cleaner says 210 hp. Perhaps one of our readers can clarify?
20180621192927 "1970 Dodge Challenger rear 3/4")
20180621192911 "1970 Dodge Challenger front")
20180621192951 "1970 Dodge Challenger interior")
20180621193142 "1970 Dodge Challenger drivers seat")
20180621193154 "1970 Dodge Challenger engine")
The Buy-It-Now price of $25,000 places this squarely between Hagerty’s #2 (Excellent) and #3 (Good) average value, so some additional details about the car’s history should be verified if you plan to pay that amount. Nevertheless, the bright blue car with the black vinyl roof, and what appears to be an exceptionally clean interior, is tempting. On exterior styling alone, we can see why this could have been a solid challenger to other pony cars of the period.
