For Sale at Auction: 1970 Dodge Challenger in Newport, Rhode Island

Chassis No. JS29V0B284063

Introduced for 1970, the Dodge Challenger arrived as Chrysler's formidable entrant in the V8-powered American arms race that defined the Pony Car Wars. From the outset, Dodge gave buyers an extraordinary breadth of ways to arm their Challenger, with a potent selection of powerplants, performance-focused trims, and desirable option packages that could equip the new full-sized coupe for nearly any occasion, from a comfortable boulevard cruiser to a formidable street and strip machine.

This Dodge Challenger R/T SE (Special Edition) Hardtop was optioned from new with the legendary V-Code 440 cu-in Six Pack V8, which utilizes a tri-carb setup to produce 390 horsepower, delivered through a Torqueflite three-speed automatic transmission with floor-mounted Slap Stik shifter. It is finished as it left the factory in Dark Burnt Orange Metallic, combined with Black vinyl inserts, enhanced with wood-grain trim. Equipped with the performance-themed R/T trim package, this example is also equipped with the signature "Bumblebee" stripe and Rallye instrument cluster. The "SE" package further adds a vinyl roof covering, smaller "formal" rear window, and a distinct cockpit including bucket seats, an overhead console, and unique badging.

Produced on 20 March 1970 at the Hamtramck, Michigan, Assembly Plant, this performance-optioned Challenger was sold new to David Deyette of Hartford, Connecticut, according to an accompanying sales invoice from Jules Lowe Dodge, Inc. Two years later, the car was sold locally to Stanley Michelski according to ownership documentation on file. After 24 years of continuous ownership, the car was acquired in June 1996 by Rudolph Anzelloti of Sandy Hook, Connecticut. The decision was made to immediately begin a restoration of the highest quality, which spanned more than four years. Invoices from this top-of-the-line restoration encompass an array of mechanical work, interior restoration, and even include a fresh set of correct 15x7 Rally wheels. The newly restored Challenger passed to its next owner in Canton, Michigan in 2002, spending subsequent time in Florida and most recently in an esteemed private collection in New Hampshire.

This 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T SE 440 Six Pack Hardtop presents today in exceptional condition, retaining its striking factory color combination and model year motor.

It is furnished with the aforementioned sales invoice, a Chrysler production broadcast sheet, and prior ownership documents including its original title. Exceptionally specified in top-tier R/T Special Edition guise and containing the formidable 440 cu-in Six Pack V8, this first-year Challenger is an exceptionally rare and desirable example. It is equally at home on the show field or the drag strip, welcomed by both distinguished and thrill-seeking company.