Daily Driver: 1972 Dodge Challenger
In the late 1960s, “Dodge Rebellion” was the Chrysler division’s mantra as it positioned itself as the performance arm of the corporation. The Challenger was likely the last newcomer of that group, debuting in the Fall of 1969 for the 1970 model year. It was only around five years but had a tremendous impact as it’s one of the most desirable pony cars today in the collector market. This 1972 Challenger is likely a “regular” model with a 318 cubic inch V8 but is said to be a solid daily driver though it has cosmetic issues. Located in Claypool, Indiana, this Mopar is available here on eBay for $12,500 OBO.
The Challenger was the last newcomer to the industry’s “pony” car segment. It ran from 1970 to 1974 but was discontinued due to declining sales. It was associated with muscle car movers, so insurance companies set a target on the car plus engines were getting detuned, and the market was thoroughly saturated. From nearly 77,000 built in 1970 production dropped by more than two-thirds to 23,000 in 1972.
Decoding of the VIN confirms this is a 318 Challenger and we assume the V8 is original to the car, but nothing official. It also has a TorqueFlite automatic transmission, and the pairing could only be bested in the performance department in 1972 with the 340 engine. We’re told the Dodge is a good running and driving machine that looks good from afar.
Given the red/orange paint in the engine compartment, we suspect there was a color change to black later on. It has its fair share of dents and dings, and rust may not be an issue. The interior looks to be original and quite nice for the 2,300 miles on the odometer (102,300?). For those looking for a 1970s Challenger and do not mind imperfections, this could be one of the cheaper ones out there.
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Comments
Looks like a pretty nice car, might go for a reasonable price.
Definitely not a city car: no power steering. Also, seems to be more of a metallic charcoal than black paint job. I have to wonder if someone redid the seat(s) as usually these were shredded with age and 100k miles. For less money up front, I would put a timing chain in it, fix the body and get it sprayed at Maaco and enjoy a daily driver. I might add power steering just because I live in the city.
When was the last time you saw an old school Challenger on the road, other than going to or coming home from a car show? Make it reliable, change fluids, check brakes, tires, and lights, give it a good clean and detail. Drive it. have fun enjoying the thumbs up and smiles. You can work on the cosmetic stuff over the winter months. RE: paint…if the paint is perfect, you may not be so inclined to drive it, fearing a stone chip or scratch. There are an awful lot of very pretty cars stowed and squirreled away in garages not to see the light of day again for a while. These cars can be reliable and fun as long as you don’t beat the crap out of them and keep them maintained, garaging when weather is unfavorable or not driving for a while. This isn’t a bad price for a driver. Probably won’t last long. Likely a motor swap candidate. I always liked these cars, but alas, I am already garage challenged juggling a couple other projects. Good luck to the next owner.
“rust may not be an issue”!?
Judging by the engine bay, rust will be an issue!
No kidding. This is one of those cars that will fool someone into purchasing due to a apparent “low” price and superficial good looks. Better to buy an “honest” car with old faded paint than one full of bondo and shoddy rust repair. Good luck to the buyer as well as the next few owners that shuffle it around until completion.
Steve R
Given photos, rust is an issue.
“rust may not be an issue”??… tell-tale rust perforation on the inner fenders is probably a harbinger of much more elsewhere.
Gone, and not surprised.
Looks like a nice driver! Really good price to get your butt in a Challenger. The first pic in the auction looked really nice. Car was posed just right. Must’ve sounded cool since there barely an exhaust system in that car. Good deal!
I like it because it doesn’t have a vinyl top. I have never like vinyl tops on most cars but especially on pony cars.