A car like this 1973 Dodge Challenger Rallye leaves its new owner with decisions to make. It is a rock-solid survivor that would respond well to a cosmetic restoration. However, some may view preservation as more appropriate for a rust-free classic that the original owner loaded with factory options. It seems plenty of people have an opinion, with the Challenger receiving twenty-seven bids since the seller listed it here on eBay in Springfield, Oregon. The action has pushed the price to $13,300, which is below the reserve.

The First Generation Challenger arrived on the scene in 1970, with the car undergoing evolutionary changes until production ended in 1974. The most significant cosmetic change occurred in 1973, with the Challenger receiving the first of the dreaded 5mph bumpers. The company did better than many when instituting the change under legislative requirements, but it still looked cumbersome compared to previous years. The original owner pushed out the boat when ordering this classic, loading it with a range of desirable options. The most obvious is the Top Banana paint, which was a premium shade in 1973. They teamed this with a Black vinyl top, while the matching stripes and graphics create a bold look. The seller claims the passenger door, trunk lid, and filler received a prior cosmetic refresh, but the remaining paint is as it left the factory. A close inspection reveals plenty of minor chips, making it a prime candidate for restoration. However, that process should be straightforward because the image gallery reveals this Dodge is entirely rust-free. That is a significant victory since I think we’ve all seen cars savaged by tin worm. The trim and tinted glass are in good order, and while the wheels are a later addition, they suit the car’s character.

Decoding the VIN reveals the original owner ordered this Challenger powered by the 340ci V8. They teamed this with a three-speed TorqueFlite transmission and a Sure Grip rear end. Emission regulations were biting by 1973, but the driver still had a respectable 240hp and 290 ft/lbs of torque at their disposal. Outright performance suffered as power dropped, but this Challenger should still deliver a 15.7-second ¼-mile ET. The engine wears some cosmetic enhancements, although the seller confirms it and the rear end are numbers-matching. Someone replaced the transmission, but that isn’t a game-changer in my book. Potential buyers can consider the Dodge a turnkey proposition. It has the typical array of minor oil drips that come with age, but it runs and drives exceptionally well.

The first owner didn’t focus solely on the exterior or drivetrain when ordering this Challenger because they added some welcome factory options. They ticked the boxes on their Order Form beside air conditioning, a console, Rallye gauges, a factory tachometer, the A01 Light Group, and an AM/FM stereo radio. The A/C is missing a couple of items, so it doesn’t blow cold. It is disappointing that someone pulled the factory radio to install a CD player. They cut the dash during the process, meaning repairs are required before a correct unit can be installed. The dashpad is badly cracked, and I feel it is beyond repair. This could be an eye-watering fault because replacement pads retail for around $770. Otherwise, the interior condition is pretty respectable, and I definitely consider it serviceable.

I have never hidden my admiration for the First Generation Challenger, feeling that Dodge scored a home run with its styling. Its swollen haunches hint that this is a car with performance potential, and the bidding action supports that view. It hasn’t reached the reserve, but there are days left on the listing for that to change. What do you consider a fair price for this Challenger Rallye? Would you be willing to join the bidding war? I wish you luck if you do.