1974 DODGE CHALLENGER 440

KEY FACTS

• A significantly upgraded example of an American icon, presented in very good order.
• Under the bonnet is a Mopar 440ci (7.2-litre) V8, now producing up to 600bhp, coupled to a three-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission.
• Upgraded while still in the US, it was later imported to the UK and re-registered in July 2010. It has subsequently received a mechanical overhaul.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• The chassis number confirms this car is an original 1974 two-door hardtop, built at the Hamtramck, MI facility, and which left the factory fitted with a G-code 318ci (5.2L) V8.
• Now equipped with a 440ci (7.2-litre) Mopar V8 engine - the largest motor available in any of the original Challenger models - the car produces up to 600bhp, giving it remarkable acceleration off the line.
• A glimpse under the bonnet reveals uprated cylinder heads with an Edelbrock Victor 440 intake manifold, and Mopar Performance valve covers. It is also fitted with MSD Digital 6A ignition control, upgraded ignition leads, an alloy radiator, and braided steel hoses.
• The bodywork is largely standard, but it has been enhanced with the addition of a prominent hood scoop bonnet in the Challenger T/A (Trans Am) style. Its rear light panel has been painted in black in contrast to the bodywork.
• There are chromed front and rear bumpers, and chromed ‘bullet’ type door mirrors.
• It rides on Weld Racing Draglite forged alloy wheels with a polished aluminium finish, with a 14-inch diameter on the front axle and 15-inch at the rear.
• The wheels are shod in BFGoodrich Radial TA tyres, in size 205/70R14 at the front and 295/50R15 at the rear.
• Mounted under the rear bumper is an external emergency cut-off switch.
• Inside, the car has additional instrument gauges including a large rev counter, as well as a Grant GT steering wheel and B&M shifter.
• A larger history file is present, including numerous invoices and receipts for upgrades and maintenance work going back decades. The original Dodge Challenger handbook and warranty card also come with the car.

CONDITION

• No known prior damage to the bodywork.
• Its Cherry Red paintwork is in generally excellent condition, though the seller notes some very light micro blisters to the boot lid.
• Inside, much of the trim appears to be original, including the dashboard to which there is a small split to the right-hand lower corner. The seats appear to be in the correct style for the 1974 model year, and have evidently been re-trimmed, now presenting in superb order.
• There are no known electrical faults.
• The most recent MOT test was on 22 May 2017 at 96,121 miles, when it achieved a first-time pass with an advisory for worn rear shackle bushes. It is exempt from mandatory testing on the basis of age.

SERVICE HISTORY

• In March 2021, the car was given a full service with fresh fluids, while in June 2020 it received new spark plugs and a replacement radiator fan.
• Other recent work has included a new three-inch exhaust, starter motor, and a new battery.
• Prior to its arrival in the UK, it was extensively modified in the US at a cost of around $22,000.

SUMMARY

This Dodge Challenger is an impressive example of the 1970s muscle car, which now boasts remarkable performance courtesy of a 600bhp 440ci Mopar V8. Not for the shy and retiring, this Challenger has prodigious acceleration off the line through its 295-section tyres, accompanied by a riotous big-block V8 soundtrack, and is offered in good mechanical order.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.