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Dodge Challenger History

Dodge Challenger History

Dodge Challenger History

Introduction

The Dodge Challenger was introduced in 1970, toward the tail-end of the height of muscle-car popularity at that time. Dodge may have been late to the pony car party, but their time was well-spent – they made sure they got it right. Today the iconic car is more popular than ever, and car enthusiasts are known to drool over those rare early models.

Early Dodge Challenger History

1971 Dodge Challenger Photo: George

The 1970 Challenger featured over-sized engine bays meant a wider body, and the Challenger also featured a long hood and short rear deck, almost exaggerating the pony car style of the late 60s. By every account, the 1970 Challenger was a very good looking car. Unfortunately, by 1971, the muscle-car movement was fading. Combined with new emissions regulations and suffering engine output, sales began to dwindle through 1974, when the Challenger was finally discontinued.

Dodge revived the Challenger name in 1978, using it on a four-cylinder coupe which it imported from Mitsubishi. While it wasn’t really a good replacement for the Challenger of days past, it was a good fit for its segment, which was in high-demand. Through the next five years, the Challenger saw a few style updates, but never stellar sales, and the model died after 1983.

Recent Challenger History

In 2008, Dodge re-introduced the Challenger, brought back with its original style, featuring a similar four round headlights and a full-width horizontal taillight, stripgrille, beltline, roofline, and character line running along the profile.

2015 Dodge Challenger 392 HEMI Scat Pack Shaker

Of course, the new generation Challenger might have been reminiscent of the 1970 version, but it now also comes with all the newest technology and safety features available. As consumer interest in classic cars and modern muscle cars continues to grow, the unique and aggressive Challenger promises to continue to deliver substantial sales.

Dodge Challenger Awards

In its relatively short life since being re-introduced to the market in 2008, the Challenger has received a long list of awards and recognition.

2014 Dodge Challenger Overview

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