Plum Crazy Perfection: 1970 Dodge Charger R - T 440 Six-Pack Four-Speed Heads to Mecum Monterey

Overview: A Rare Plum Crazy Mopar Goes Under the Hammer

A true eye-catcher from the golden era of muscle cars, this 1970 Dodge Charger R/T finished in Plum Crazy purple is a headline act at Mecum Monterey 2025. Beyond the show-stopping high-impact color, the Charger’s V-code 440 Six-Pack big-block and four-speed manual make it one of the rarest and most desirable Charger configurations produced in 1970.

Vehicle Specifications

Powertrain and Drivetrain

• Engine: 440 cubic-inch (7.2 L) Six-Pack V8 (three two-barrel carburetors)
• Transmission: Four-speed manual gearbox (pistol grip shifter)
• Factory options: A33 Track Pack

Chassis, Brakes and Wheels

• Power brakes and power steering
• Rallye wheels
• Tic-Toc-Tach gauges on the dash

Design and Restoration

This Charger has undergone a rotisserie restoration that returns it to a largely pristine, concours-ready condition. Visual highlights include the iconic Plum Crazy purple paint, a contrasting white vinyl top and the classic “bumblebee” rear stripe—styling cues that cement its status as a period-correct, high-impact Mopar. The car retains its original fender tag and broadcast sheet and is listed in the Chrysler Registry, adding provenance to the restoration.

Performance and Driving Character

The 440 Six-Pack V8 is famed for its strong midrange torque and aggressive throttle response thanks to the triple two-barrel carb setup. Coupled to a four-speed manual, this configuration was designed for drivers who wanted full involvement and maximum performance from the factory big-block. The A33 Track Pack enhances handling and suspension hardware for a more focused driving experience compared with standard models.

Market Positioning and Rarity

While total Charger production in 1970 approached 50,000 units, only 10,337 were ordered in R/T high-performance trim. The ultra-rare 426 Hemi went into only 112 Chargers, but the 440 Six-Pack is scarce as well: just 684 Charger R/Ts were factory-equipped with the 440 Six-Pack (about 6.6% of R/T production). When you combine the Six-Pack with the four-speed manual, production drops to only 347 known examples—numbers that drive strong collector demand for originality and documentation.

Documentation, Condition and Auction Details

The Mecum listing notes the presence of original identification (fender tag and broadcast sheet) and inclusion in the Chrysler Registry, though the ad does not explicitly state whether the drivetrain is numbers-matching. Mecum estimates a sale price between $120,000 and $140,000 for this Charger, which is being offered at no reserve. The sale is scheduled for August 16 during the Monterey 2025 auction weekend.

Comparisons and Context

At the same Mecum event, a 1968 Charger with the more common 383 big-block sold for $73,700 and a 1969 Super Bee with a 383 changed hands for $44,000. The Dodge marquee’s headline attraction is a 1969 Hemi Daytona NASCAR racer that’s expected to exceed $1 million. For enthusiasts who prefer Plymouth but want the 440 Six-Barrel experience, a 1970 Road Runner in Sassy Grass green—with a three-speed automatic and an even rarer 222-unit production run—is also on the block and expected to fetch north of $140,000.

Why This Charger Matters

Collectors are drawn to this Plum Crazy Charger for three reasons: the rare V-code 440 Six-Pack combined with a four-speed manual, authentic restoration and factory documentation. That blend of performance pedigree, striking aesthetics and verified history positions this car as a top collectible among Mopar enthusiasts and muscle car buyers seeking an authentic, driver-focused classic.