BF Auction: 1972 Dodge Charger
- Seller: Nina K
- Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
- Mileage: 75,000 Shown
- Chassis #: WL21626176158
- Title Status: Clean
- Engine: 318 V8
- Transmission: Torqueflite 727
For many enthusiasts, originality is crucial when searching for a project candidate. This characteristic allows the scope for a faithful restoration, although some drivetrains are receptive to subtle tweaks if a buyer seeks improved performance. This 1972 Dodge Charger ticks those boxes because it is mechanically original and unmolested. It is begging for love, but with every part readily available to recapture its youthful good looks, it is ideal for someone considering a first project build. It needs a new home, with the owner listing it exclusively with us at Barn Finds.
Dodge’s Third Generation Charger range hit showrooms for the 1971 model year, and the last cars were delivered in 1974. The first owner ordered our feature car in 1972, choosing to cloak its exterior in Hemi Orange. Chrysler had a history of offering buyers high-impact paint shades, but only Hemi Orange and Top Banana remained on Dodge’s color palette when this car rolled off the line. This classic is essentially original and unmolested, although the owner only recently bolted on the new 15″ wheels and tires. She retained the original wheels and included them as part of this package. The panels have accumulated a few minor imperfections, but addressing these in a home workshop is a realistic option. The owner acknowledges there is rust for the winning bidder to tackle, which is typical of almost any car from this era. It isn’t an insurmountable obstacle because it is possible to replace nearly every piece of steel in a ’72 Charger, such is the ready availability of parts. These components are very affordable, meaning returning this Charger to a rust-free state is possible without breaking the bank. Any removed trim pieces are in the trunk, along with other parts and additional taillights. The attached items are in good order, and there are no obvious glass issues.
This Charger will score high points with purists because it retains its entire numbers-matching drivetrain. The first owner combined the iconic 318ci V8 with a three-speed A-727 transmission and power steering to produce a car requiring little effort from behind the wheel. The V8 delivered 150hp and 260 ft/lbs of torque, which most owners would have considered more than adequate in 1972. With its original drivetrain intact, this Charger is a prime candidate for a faithful approach. However, extracting a few additional ponies via minor, reversible upgrades is also possible. The owner admits the Charger doesn’t currently run, although I see nothing suggesting a revival would be difficult. Coaxing the engine back to life could be the first step in returning this Dodge to its rightful place on our roads.
The supplied interior shots confirm that this Charger’s interior requires TLC. However, it is essentially complete, and it appears that any removed parts now reside in the trunk. The first owner selected Black vinyl trim, strikingly contrasting the Hemi Orange exterior. A retrim is the only option, and kits to achieve a faithful result are available. The owner provides a start for the winning bidder, with a new carpet kit forming part of the deal. Another factor worth considering is that with a bench front seat, this Charger will accommodate six people. Therefore, the whole family can enjoy the classic motoring experience once this Dodge returns to active service.
This 1972 Dodge Charger offers potential buyers an enormous range of choices. Its unmolested state and original drivetrain make a faithful restoration possible. Purists would prefer this approach, and I would choose it. However, Dodge bolted more potent engines under the hoods of these Chargers, making a transplant straightforward if the winning bidder craves additional performance. Regardless of your view, it is undeniably a promising project candidate. So be sure to make an offer and leave any questions you might have in the comments. You never know, but today could be your lucky day!
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Comments
For what it’s worth, the 5th ‘digit’ in the ‘chassis number’ needs to be changed from a 6 to a G.
Also FWIW, the second digit is an L, which mean the car was built to a ‘low’ price class. I can’t remember the last time I saw one coded for that.
A VIN WL21 also means that the rear quarter windows do not go up and down. They are fixed. This is about as “low” as you could get in this car. No A/C and fixed quarter windows. I’m actually shocked that the car has a V8. Would have bet the ranch that it was originally ordered with a 225/6. I would actually want to see the data plate or the VIN at the top of the dash to verify that it is indeed an original 318 car. It’s a good project starter car but as we all know, it doesn’t take long to go down the rabbit hole.
Base Charger that appears to be mostly there. May be a candidate for a more powerful drivetrain.
While in the Military, I bought a 73 Charger SE with the 383 in Banana Yellow ( but looked closer to a lime Green ) great car, even with Emission bs on it , it had plenty of power to light up the tires when you wanted to.
They are only original once, as they say.
Funny, I had those same exact tires on my 2013 Charger in an 18″ size. Mounted them on cop steelies. They lasted a really long time compared to the stock 20″ tires.
Actually, I sold the Laffen’s on C.L. after I sold the Charger – there was still plenty of tread left on them. Made in Hungary, of all places.