Meet the reimagined pony car that's making collectors and restomod fans go plum crazy
Purple Haze All in My Brain
The spirit of American speed lives on in a handful of 70's era Dodge pony cars like this 1971 Dodge Challenger. Given their classic looks and vintage performance, it's no wonder that both collectors and automotive restorers are often eager to get their hands on one. This 1971 debuted in the model's second year. Rescued from a storage building in rural Texas, this amazing barn find has looks that kill and acceleration to thrill in ways contemporary vehicles simply can’t match.
Photos Courtesy of Motorious
Things Don't Seem the Same
The Challenger Coupe replaced the Challenger Deputy as the model's entry-level option in 1971, although not much changed from the vehicle that debuted a year earlier to much fanfare from drivers and critics alike. In addition to an option between a "TourqeFlite" automatic or "Pistol-Grip" Hurst-brand transmission, the '71 also features the unique "Rally" suspension that attributed to the car's notable blend of performance and ride comfort.
>>Join the conversation about this beautiful classic Challenger right here in the Dodge Forum.
'Scuse Me While I Kiss the Sky
In addition to its original vinyl seats, the car also has its original faux-wood paneled dash and gauges, along with a matching faux-wood detailed armrest with a lock compartment and accented door frames. Everything about the car oozes classic style, while power windows and a recently refurbed factory air conditioning system and an emphasis on driver and passenger comfort.
>>Join the conversation about this beautiful classic Challenger right here in the Dodge Forum.
Purple Haze All Around
The car is powered by an iconic 383-cubic-inch V8 engine mated to an original but fully restored automatic transmission. Classic pony-car features like dual exhaust, fresh power steering brakes, and all original gauges help contribute to the speedster’s vintage vibe. In fact, 1971 would be the last model year where Dodge would make the 383in. V8 available.
>>Join the conversation about this beautiful classic Challenger right here in the Dodge Forum.
Whatever It is That Girl
The car’s classic “R/T” badging on the front hood is a nod to its road and track pedigree, while original hood scoops allow the car’s power plant to breathe and purr. The factory original rear spoiler and black vinyl hardtop roof, meanwhile, are instantly recognizable as icons of American speed and made even easier on the eyes thanks to a jet-black trim that accentuates the car’s purple paint scheme.
>>Join the conversation about this beautiful classic Challenger right here in the Dodge Forum.
Put a Spell on Me
Dodge has created over 30 “R/T” builds since 1968, but few are more recognizable than classic Dodge Challengers like this one. Original discontinued in 1983, interest in first- and second-generation Dodge Challengers has increased since the model reappeared as part of a staple of Dodge's production line in 2008. And while the latest Hellcat and R/T Scat Pack models are awesome in their own right, it's hard to argue with the vintage looks and classic power of the original.
>>Join the conversation about this beautiful classic Challenger right here in the Dodge Forum.
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