1970 Dodge Challenger R/T Hemi Coupe

1970 was the first year for the Dodge Challenger, Dodge’s response (along with the redesigned Plymouth Barracuda which was on a 2\" shorter wheelbase) to Ford’s Mustang and Cougar and GM’s Camaro and Firebird. Challenger’s body echoed the corporate family “Coke-bottle” shape, a lithe and purposeful look, distinctive from the competition. The chassis was a typical pony car with drum brakes, independent front suspension and a solid axle on leaf springs at the rear. The performance R/T package included a Rallye instrument cluster, performance suspension, heavy-duty brakes and exterior identification. Engines ranged from the week-kneed 198-ci/101-hp slant-six to Chrysler’s tire-smoking legendary Street Hemi.

Chrysler’s hemispherical combustion chamber V8 debuted in 1951 and powered Chryslers, DeSotos and Dodges until 1959 when it was replaced by wedge-head engines. But the best was yet to come. In early...