Is this 1970 Dodge Challenger a numbers-matching R/T?

No. This Challenger is a tribute-style build rather than a numbers-matching R/T. It wears R/T visual cues and has been upgraded with a 440-cubic-inch V8, but it does not retain original factory-matching drivetrain numbers.

What mechanical or electrical issues should a buyer expect?

The seller reports several items that need attention: a non-functioning tachometer and clock, worn power window motors, a climate control panel that requires servicing, tires that should be replaced, surface rust on some underbody components, and a charging system that still needs sorting despite a recently installed alternator.

What comes with the car when purchased?

The sale includes two sets of keys, a reproduction owner’s manual, Chilton’s and factory service manuals, the uninstalled convertible top components (mechanism and upholstery), spare factory wheels, a new windshield, a heater control valve, and other spare parts accumulated by the long-term owner.

How rare is a 1970 Challenger convertible and how does that affect value?

Convertible Challengers were only offered in 1970 and 1971, making surviving drop-top examples comparatively rare. Rarity increases desirability and collector interest, but final value depends on originality, condition, documentation, and whether the car is numbers-matching or modified. This example’s included parts and long-term ownership history add appeal for restorers and enthusiasts.

Where is the car listed and what is its current auction status?

The 1970 Dodge Challenger convertible is listed on the Cars & Bids auction platform. At the time of listing, the highest bid noted was $2,440—below the seller’s reserve—and several days remained in the auction for additional bids.

1970 Dodge Challenger Convertible (Plum Crazy) — 23 Years of Care, Now Up for Auction

5 Minutes

A cherished 1970 Dodge Challenger ready for a new owner

Some cars become more than metal and rubber — they become companions, weekend escapes, and multi-year projects. This 1970 Dodge Challenger convertible in iconic Plum Crazy purple is exactly that: a long-term passion for a Washington State owner who held onto it for 23 years. Now the time has come to pass the keys to someone new.

Heritage and market positioning

The Dodge Challenger debuted for the 1970 model year as Dodge's answer to the exploding pony car market dominated by the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. Built on Chrysler's E-body platform (shared with the Plymouth Barracuda but stretched for a wider stance), the Challenger offered a breadth of choices—from economical inline-sixes to the fire-breathing big-block V8s such as the 426 Hemi and the 440 Magnum. That mix of trim levels, powertrain options, and body styles (coupe and the rarer convertible) made the Challenger a flexible, desirable entry in the muscle car segment.

Why this convertible matters

Convertible Challengers are particularly collectible because the drop-top was offered only in 1970 and 1971. Surviving examples are comparatively rare, and a well-preserved 1970 convertible attracts attention from collectors and enthusiasts alike. This example has been styled as a tribute to the Challenger R/T: aggressive stance, R/T graphics, hood pins, and the kind of visual cues that make people stop and look.

Design and exterior

Plum Crazy paint and visual upgrades

The car wears Plum Crazy, one of Dodge's most recognizable and attention-grabbing factory colors, applied by a previous owner as part of its R/T tribute conversion. Complementing the paint are 15-inch Rally wheels, a rear wing, hood pins, and period-correct badging to complete the R/T look. There are visible chips, scratches, and some fading — honest signs of use rather than a flawless show car finish.

Interior and usability

Comfortable, used, and ready to drive

Inside, the Challenger features black upholstery with natural patina that confirms this car was driven, not just trailered to shows. The dashboard has some cracks, and some interior trim exhibits fading with age, but the cabin remains usable. The convertible top is not installed on the car at the moment; however, a new mechanism and fresh upholstery are included in the sale so the next owner can complete the restoration or refit the top.

Powertrain and performance

From modest beginnings to a big-block heart

Factory records show this Challenger originally left the line with a 318-cubic-inch V8, a modest small-block by muscle car standards. It has since been fitted with a 440-cubic-inch big-block V8, mated to a three-speed automatic transmission and delivering power to the rear wheels. Supporting upgrades include an aluminum radiator and an upgraded driveshaft to help the big-block breathe and rev. The result is the sort of throaty, low-end shove and authentic muscle car soundtrack enthusiasts prize.

Condition, mechanicals and recent maintenance

This is not a concours vehicle. The seller reports several mechanical and electrical items that need attention: the tachometer and clock are non-functional, power window motors are tired, the climate control panel needs work, and the charging system still requires final tuning despite a recently installed alternator. Tires should be replaced and there’s surface rust on some underbody components, but structurally the car remains a solid ride.

Included items and documentation

The sale includes a comprehensive kit of parts and documentation that will be valuable to any buyer or restorer: two sets of keys, a reproduction owner’s manual, Chilton’s and factory service manuals, the uninstalled convertible top components, spare factory wheels, a new windshield, and a heater control valve. Those extras make this package more than just a car—it’s a working archive from a long-term caretaker.

Comparisons and buyer considerations

Compared with a numbers-matching R/T, this Challenger won’t claim authenticity to factory-original drivetrain matching. But that’s not the point for many buyers: it looks the part, performs like an authentic muscle car thanks to the 440 big-block, and carries the visual drama of the R/T tribute. Compared to contemporaries like the Mustang or Camaro convertibles, the Challenger’s broader engine range and the striking Plum Crazy color make it a distinctive choice for collectors seeking presence and personality.

Market outlook and auction details

This 1970 Dodge Challenger is listed on Cars & Bids. So far the highest bid reached $2,440, well below the seller’s reserve, and there are still several days remaining on the auction for bidders to respond. Given the included parts, maintenance history, and the car’s convertible rarity, motivated buyers who understand restoration projects and muscle car markets will see potential value above the current bid—especially once the mechanical and cosmetic work is completed.

Who should buy this Challenger?

If you’re a restorer, weekend driver, or enthusiast who loves classic American muscle, this Challenger represents an opportunity: a highly visible convertible with a big-block heart, an abundance of included spares, and a long-care history from one owner. It needs attention, but those flaws are part of the project for someone ready to take on a rewarding restoration or to enjoy a raw, honest piece of muscle car history on the road.

Final thoughts

It’s not a showroom-perfect, numbers-matching R/T, but it is a loved car with character, mechanical muscle, and a long-term owner who kept records and parts. For the next buyer, this 1970 Dodge Challenger convertible in Plum Crazy could become a beautiful and loud centerpiece of a classic car collection or a long weekend touring car that draws attention wherever it goes.

Quick specs

Year/Model: 1970 Dodge Challenger (Convertible)
Current engine: 440-cubic-inch V8
Transmission: Three-speed automatic
Drive layout: Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
Platform: Chrysler E-body
Wheels: 15-inch Rally wheels (factory spares included)
Notable: Plum Crazy paint, R/T tribute graphics, hood pins, rear wing

Ethan Miles

"I’m Ethan — gearhead by nature, writer by choice. If it’s got wheels and horsepower, I’ve probably tested it or written about it!"

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