Development of the Dodge Challenger began in late 1966, with early design work led by Bill Brownlie, who envisioned a clean, formal coupe that was quite similar to the overall design of the Mercury Cougar. The Challenger’s enduring appeal stems not only from its very handsome styling, but also from its ability to accommodate the entire Chrysler engine range by virtue of the front sub-frame, which was borrowed from the B-bodied Charger/Coronet. In addition, the use of the Charger/Coronet rear suspension layout provided a wide rear track, which was capable of housing the wider wheels and tires that became available by 1970. The Challenger quickly gained popularity with their wild colors, vast options, and impressive list of powertrain combinations.

This 1970 Challenger R/T Convertible is an attractive and nicely restored example, one of just 1,070 R/T convertible examples believed to have been built for the model year. Clad in its factory-correct and signature “High Impact” shade of Plum Crazy, this Challenger’s white vinyl interior is furnished with a pair of factory buckets seats, Rallye instrument cluster, air conditioning, and center console complete with woodgrain trim. The car’s trim tag lists a full suite of desirable options which have all been retained—thus enhancing the allure and accuracy of the car’s previous restoration.

The 375-horsepower, 440-cubic-inch V-8 engine is a numbers-matching unit which has been paired with a three-speed “Torqueflite” automatic transmission of the correct type. The upscale performance nature continues to the exterior with J45 hood pins, sport hood with blackout treatment and displacement callouts, white longitudinal stripes, and a rear spoiler. A set of correct ten-hole Rallye wheels are wrapped in aftermarket Goodyear Polyglas tires befitting a factory aesthetic—all of which surround the power-assisted brakes noted on the car’s trim tag.

This 1970 Challenger R/T Convertible presents a rarified MOPAR offering replete with many desirable features that benefits from a very presentable restoration.