Mileage claims can be a slippery slope in the classic world, and many buyers have fallen victim to cars that aren’t all they appear to be. However, that isn’t the case with this 1971 Dodge Charger. The seller doesn’t merely claim it has a genuine 34,000 miles on its odometer because they hold documentation and Service Records confirming the originality of the reading. It is an unmolested survivor, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder T.J. for spotting a classic ready for a new home.

Dodge released its Third Generation Charger range for the 1971 model year, forsaking the previous model’s Coke-bottle styling for the emerging “Fuselage” look. I have never hidden the fact that I prefer the predecessor, but I always emphasize it is a question of personal preference. Opinions always differ, and I accept that fact as an integral part of the classic scene. This first-year classic rolled off the line in Code B5 Bright Blue Metallic with a White vinyl top. The seller admits it underwent a repaint in the original shade around eight years ago, and the overall presentation is impressive. The paint shines warmly, and the vinyl shows no stains or distress. The stripes look crisp and clean, with no shrinkage or other problems. The first owner had this Charger undercoated at the factory, and the underside photos confirm the seller’s claim that this beauty is rust-free. There are occasional spots of dry surface corrosion but no evidence of developing steel penetration. The chrome and glass are in good order, as are the Rallye wheels. It is worth noting that this Dodge didn’t roll off the line with a rear spoiler. The seller sat it in place for the photos, but they have never bolted it down. They couldn’t face the prospect of drilling the trunk lid to attach a non-original component, leaving that choice to the new owner.

The only obvious shortcoming with this Charger is its interior, although the problems are relatively minor. The Bright Blue vinyl front seatcover exhibits wear and has developing holes on the driver’s side. An upholsterer might be able to blind patch the holes, but I believe the base will probably continue deteriorating. The obvious alternative would be for the buyer to source a replacement cover. These are available in the correct pattern and color for around $600 and would permanently eliminate the problem. I’m in two minds about the dashpad because it might have cracked on the passenger side. The photos are inconclusive, but the new owner may face spending a further $720 if that is the case. The carpet is slightly faded, although the overall condition is acceptable for a driver-grade vehicle. It isn’t loaded with factory options. However, the buyer will welcome the factory air conditioning and dual remote exterior mirrors.

The first piece of positive mechanical news is that this Charger is numbers-matching. The original owner ticked the boxes beside the 318ci V8, three-speed TorqueFlite transmission, and power assistance for the steering and brakes on their Order Form. The 318 produces 230hp and 320 ft/lbs of torque, and although those figures don’t place performance in muscle car territory, there should be enough under the driver’s right foot to satisfy most enthusiasts. The seller claims this Charger has 34,000 genuine miles on the odometer, indicating they hold Service Records and other verifying documentation. They say it runs and drives as well as it did the day it rolled off the showroom floor, suggesting the buyer won’t spend a dime on the drivetrain.

The seller listed this 1971 Dodge Charger here on Craigslist in West Babylon, New York. Their price of $25,500 is above the market average, and it is hard to say whether it is justified. The odometer reading argues in its favor, but the interior shortcomings will negatively impact it in the eyes of some. It will be fascinating to gauge your feedback and whether we have readers who could be tempted to pursue it further.