Parked For 20 Years: 1969 Dodge Charger Project
The Dodge Charger was not an instant success. Introduced in 1966, sales were somewhat mediocre in its first two years (average: 26,566 units). Then the Chrysler B-bodied intermediates got redesigned in 1968 and the average grew to 74,861 Chargers through 1970. Styling was everything because a mix of luxury and performance was always there. The seller’s 1969 Charger looks like an unfinished project that started with the body and paint. But the interior is undone, and the drivetrain hasn’t been touched. Located in Hudson, Florida, this Mopar restoration opportunity is available here on eBay where the magic number is $20,000 (so far).
Though a handful of Chargers built with a Slant-Six, the 318 cubic inch V8 was usually the starting point, and motivated buyers could order any engine between there and the 426 Hemi. This car has a 318, but we don’t know if it’s original, paired with Chrysler’s venerable TorqueFlite automatic transmission. We don’t know the last time the Charger was started, either, but it may have been 20 years ago so the motor, tranny, and other hardware are set to be rebuilt.
We’re told all the sheet metal on this car is original, though parts of the floorboards will need to be patched. The seats will need recovering and the door panels may have taken flight (the seller is only committing to completeness in terms of what you see in the photos, plus some brightwork like the bumpers).
Is the red paint ready to go? We’re not sure, and the black vinyl top may or may not be okay. The glass has survived, as well. The car sits on rollers, which is how it may have gotten around for the past couple of decades. These second-generation Chargers are popular and can command some big bucks in the right condition. Restoring the 318 may not excite those hoping for a 383 or a 440, but if its numbers matching, the car may be worth more if you don’t opt to go the restomod route.
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Comments
Looks like you might have a convertible after removing that vinyl top
This Charger was apparently subjected to a very amateurish respray as evidenced by paint covering door latches and other places. Who knows what’s under the shiny red stuff? Could be decent or a nightmare. On the positive side, I’ve seen plenty worse interiors. Steering wheel doesn’t appear cracked and dash gauges look promising. A new set of original style seat covers, door cards and carpets would go a long way. At this point, hope that all you need is a full floor pan. Then modernize it with a good front end, modern Hemi, Tremec 5 speed and beefy rear end.
But, this isn’t one to buy without a really detailed in person inspection. Hope for the best, expect the worst.
The paint? The writeup wonders if it’s ready to go? Huh? School for the blind work-study?