1974 Dodge Challenger

Description

Mopar people know the significance of the 1974 Dodge Challenger. It was the final year for these first generation muscle cars, and its model year was even cut short, making it the rarest of the E-bodies. But just in case you weren't already tempted by rarity, you'll be drawn in by all the desirable options and a performance-built 400+ hp V8. This particular car has been owned by the same caring owners the past 20 years; they are MOPAR enthusiasts and have only given this car the best.

The Challenger's shape is one of the most popular muscle car profiles in history, but there's something on this one that makes it look exceptionally nice. The factory A57 Rallye Package that gives you the hood scoops, blacked-out grille and bold side strobe stripes. When this one was restored there were also some nice extra aggressive touches added such as matte black paint on the hood, hood pins, and the black rear spoiler. It all looks great on brighter update to the factory KY5 Yellow Blaze paint on an exceptionally straight body.

The pristine black vinyl interior is the right choice to complement the exterior motif. The moment you slip into the high-back bucket seat, it feels like 1974 all over again. You've got the desirable center console with the iconic pistol-grip gearshift sitting boldly in the middle. The Rallye Package comes through again with a full set of gauges, including the big tachometer in the center. In fact, the only piece that doesn't feel factory-correct is a set of newer aftermarket gauges, which is clear indication that there is something big going on in the engine bay.

Under the hood is a 360 cubic-inch V8 that's been bored to now make a monster 410 ci, but the performance improvements don't stop there. It was rebuilt 3,000 miles ago with solid lifters, cam, and pushrods. Plus, this one includes a 750 CFM Demon carburetor, high rise Edelbrock Air Gap intake, electronic ignition, and MSD distributor. It exhales deeply through ceramic long tube headers on its way to the new 3" stainless exhaust with performance X-pipe construction. So now this is not only make some serious power (400+ hp), but this big dog also has the bark to back it all up. Best of all, that pistol-grip shifter you noticed in the interior is linked to an upgraded four-speed manual transmission so you have full control to keep this monster motor in the powerband. Also, those stylish Magnum wheels are attached to aggressive BF Goodrich rubber, and there are even disc brakes in the front.

There were less than 11,400 Challengers built in 1974. That rarity only get better when you go through the binder full of paperwork that includes the original dealer invoice and window sticker, and soon you'll see how special this Mopar really is. It was a well-optioned car when new, and it has kept all of those elements intact. The only upgrades it has are the ones that will make you love driving it the long way home.