Dodge Charger
The most recognizable American muscle car — made famous in Bullitt and The Dukes of Hazzard.
The 1968–70 Dodge Charger is one of the most iconic American cars ever designed — a tunnel-roof hardtop with a recessed grille and hidden headlights that set the standard for muscle car styling. The 426 HEMI option, rated at 425 hp, is one of the most legendary engines in automotive history. The 1969 Charger Daytona with its massive wing is the most extreme production car of the era.
History
The first-generation Charger (1966–67) used the B-body platform with a full-width fastback roofline and four bucket seats. It was stylish but lacked aerodynamic performance. The complete redesign for 1968 produced what many consider the best-looking American car ever made — smooth fastback roofline, hidden headlights, and an aircraft-inspired interior. The 1968–70 Charger dominated NASCAR racing.
The 1969 Charger 500 and the legendary Charger Daytona were built specifically for NASCAR aerodynamic requirements. Only 503 Daytonas were produced for the street; their massive rear wing and pointed nose cone make them the most dramatic factory cars ever sold. The 1971–74 Charger featured a more formal roofline but retained availability of the 426 HEMI and 440 Six-Pack.
Notable Versions
R/T (Road/Track)
Performance package with 440 Magnum or 426 HEMI, upgraded suspension, and dual exhaust.
426 HEMI (1966–71)
The ultimate street/strip engine. Rated 425 hp; widely accepted as underrated by 50–75 hp.
Charger 500 (1969)
NASCAR aerodynamic homologation car with flush rear window and grille. 392 produced.
Charger Daytona (1969)
Extended aero nose and 23-inch rear wing for superspeedway racing. 503 produced; values $150,000–$500,000+.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
B-body rust is extensive
Trunk floor, lower quarters, floor pans, and the area under the rear window all rust regularly. Plan on addressing multiple areas.
HEMI authentication is critical
A documented, numbers-matching HEMI car is worth 3–5× a comparable 440 example. Demand the fender tag and broadcast sheet.
Water intrusion from the tunnel roof
The distinctive hardtop roofline creates water channeling issues. Check the headliner, floor, and door jambs for moisture damage.
Clone detection requires the fender tag
The broadcast sheet (attached to the body) lists every factory option. Without it, R/T and HEMI claims require independent verification.
HEMI-specific parts are expensive
Cylinder heads, intake manifolds, and unique accessories for HEMI-equipped cars carry significant premiums over 440 equivalents.
Quick Specs
- Engine options
- 225 Slant Six, 318–440 V8, 426 HEMI
- Horsepower
- 145–425 hp (HEMI conservatively rated)
- Wheelbase
- 117 in
- Transmission
- 4-spd manual, TorqueFlite 3-spd automatic
- 0–60 (426 HEMI)
- under 5.5 seconds
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
Dodge Charger For Sale
2 listings currently available