The Classic Dodge Challenger has become increasingly more popular among collectors as of late. The Challenger was a muscle car brute in the 1970s. They were offered at the time with the availability for the Dodge to receive the legendary hemispherical (Hemi) engines. These engines brought with them even more horsepower over the standard engines. Hemi equipped cars, understandably, are eyed a little closer by collectors to this day. That is one of the reasons a certain Challenger at auction right now is anticipated to bring in as much as $3 million, or more.

1970 Dodge Hemi Challenger R/T

The car in question is a 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T. It is equipped with a 426 cubic inch Hemi engine. Its Go Mango orange paint is accentuated by a black vinyl top. According to Motoring Research, fewer than 200 of the Hemi packaged cars were made. This option added an additional $779 to the sticker price of the vehicle. Of those 200, only one had the factory sunroof. This Challenger is it. 

The additional specifications show that whoever ordered the Dodge originally was not concerned about saving money because a lot of the available options were put into the build. For example, the white interior has a six-way adjustable driver’s bucket seat, the trunk lid carries a luggage rack, an AM radio with an 8-track player is inside, along with a Hurst Pistol Grip shifter that accompanies the four-speed manual transmission. Also, 15-inch Rallye wheels are outfitted on the car.

The value of this Challenger

Mecum, the famed auction house, currently has the car for sale as part of its Gallery offerings. No price is set. However, they are entertaining offers from people with interest for the car. Previous Hemi equipped samples, but with no sunroof, have seen over one million dollars in past auctions. But, a 2014 auction of the sister brand Plymouth is most telling with regard to value. That auction saw a rare 1971 Hemi Cuda convertible go for $3.5 million. This Challenger, however, is the only R/T packaged Challenger equipped with the 426 Hemi and the factory sunroof for 1970. So, the unique position means this car will likely command a high-dollar as well. 

Offered in jewel-like condition

The listing for the Dodge at Mecum says it is offered in a “jewel-like” condition after having received an extensive restoration. It also says, 

“This engine, featuring its dual 4-barrel layout, heavy-duty internals and expansive dimensions, was by far the most prolific race-based big-block to ever come from Detroit. The buyer had opted for the A34 Super Track Pak as well, getting the A833 Hemi 4-speed manual transmission and a 4.10 Dana rear axle. Power steering and power-assisted brakes were also part of the package, as were the Hemi-specific suspension parts.”

One-of-one

This sale is for what seems to be a truly unique car. So, the prospective buyer will not only get a legendary vehicle, but a one-of-one. This is what some collectors call a holy grail car. Whomever purchases this Challenger will instantly become part of Mopar royalty. The only thing that is missing is an 8 track with the Beetles last album, Let it Be, also released in 1970.