The Dodge Challenger made its debut in the fall of 1969 as a 1970 model. While it shared Chrysler’s “E-body” short-deck, long-hood platform with the third-generation Plymouth Barracuda, Dodge Challenger’s wheelbase was two inches longer, creating more interior space.

The Dodge Challenger was originally offered as either a two-door hardtop or convertible, in base, SE (Special Edition), R/T (Road/Track) and T/A (Trans Am) trim. But it was the range of powertrain choices that was truly remarkable.

Befitting the brand’s performance heritage, the Dodge Challenger went racing in its first year. For the street, it was offered in the limited-edition T/A model to meet homologation requirements for Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Trans Am racing. The T/A was one of the first production vehicles to offer different size tires, front and back; E60 x 15 in the front, G60 x 15 in the rear.

In 1970, Sam Posey drove the lone Trans Am racing Challenger, prepared and run by Ray Caldwell’s Autodynamics Race Shop. While he didn’t win a race in the No. 77 car, Posey finished fourth overall in points.

Story by Chrysler LCC

In Detail

tags	muscle
submitted by	Richard Owen
production	2539
price $	$ 4,480
engine	90 Degree Hemi V8
position	Front Longitudinal
aspiration	Natural
valvetrain	Pushrod OHV, 2 Valves per Cyl
fuel feed	Six Pak, Tripple 3 Holley Carburettors
displacement	5572 cc / 340 in³
bore	102.6 mm / 4.04 in
stroke	84.1 mm / 3.31 in
compression	10.5:1
power	261.0 kw / 350 bhp
specific output	62.81 bhp per litre
bhp/weight	203.02 bhp per tonne
torque	468 nm / 345.2 ft lbs @ 3400 rpm
body / frame	Unit Steel
driven wheels	Front Engine / RWd
front tires	E60x15
rear tires	E60x15
front brakes	Vented Discs
rear brakes	Drums
front wheels	F 38.1 x 17.8 cm / 15.0 x 7.0 in
rear wheels	R 38.1 x 17.8 cm / 15.0 x 7.0 in
steering	Manual or Power Steering
f suspension	Wishbones w/Shock Absobers, Torsion Bars
r suspension	Live Axle w/Semi Elliptic Leaf Springs, Sway Bar, Telescopic Shock Absorbers
curb weight	1724 kg / 3801 lbs
wheelbase	2794 mm / 110.0 in
length	4860 mm / 191.3 in
width	1933 mm / 76.1 in
height	1285 mm / 50.6 in
transmission	TorqueFlite Automatic or 4-Speed Manual w/Hurst-Shifter
final drive	3.54:1
top speed	~235.0 kph / 146.0 mph
0 – 60 mph	~5.9 seconds
0 – 1/4 mile	~14.5 seconds

Auction Sales History

1970 Dodge Challenger T/A JH23J0B304171 – sold for $62,000 Matching numbers 340 CI engine. Believed to be 30,000 original miles. Original build sheet. Factory sheet metal. Fresh restoration. 4-speed transmission.
Auction Source: Monterey 2014 by Mecum Auctions

1970 Dodge Challenger E Body –

The 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A was built in limited numbers – 2,399 to be exact. But none are more rare than this matching numbers Rallye Red example, the only one with the optional “gator grain” vinyl roof covering, in this case original to the car. The 340/290 HP Six Pack engine has been recently rebuilt and power tuned for maximum performance. Like all T/As, it incorporates power front disc brakes, heavy duty suspension, side exit exhaust, a fiberglass fresh air hood, Rallye wheels, front and rear spoilers and unique graphics. Documented by the original build sheet.

Auction Source: 2011 Mecum Kissimmee, FL Auction

1970 Dodge Challenger T/A –

The 1970 Challenger T/A offered here is finished in stunning FM3-code Panther Pink, and remains in glorious restored condition. Complemented by correct flat-black side stripes and model identification, the T/A also features a flat black fiberglass hood, a functional “Six Pack” hood scoop, front and rear spoilers, and painted steel wheels with chrome hubcaps and trim rings, along with chrome “megaphone” exhaust tips. The interior is period-correct in presentation, with white vinyl upholstery and door panels that are offset by a black dash, a black floor console, and a three-spoke steering wheel with a wood-grained rim. The Challenger also features a steering column-mounted tachometer, a “pistol-grip” Hurst shifter, and power brakes. Underhood resides the strong 340 cubic inch V8 engine with “Six Pack” induction, which, like the Boss 302 and Z28 engines, was severely underrated at 290 horsepower. The impressively detailed engine bay features correct finishes, components, hoses and fasteners throughout, with the exception of a modern maintenance-free battery.

Auction Source: 2008 Monterey Preview