Bill Goldberg, renowned for his wrestling prowess, is equally passionate about cars. Since the late 1990s, he has amassed a remarkable collection of classic and modern automobiles, showcasing a particular fondness for the 1969 Dodge HEMI Charger R/T, a true gem in his garage.
Goldberg’s all-time favorite muscle car, the 1969 HEMI Charger, holds a special place in his heart. This iconic vehicle not only represents the golden era of muscle cars but also served as the catalyst for Goldberg’s venture into collecting classics.
Painted in the striking B5 Blue Mopar hue, this Charger stands as a testament to meticulous restoration in 1989. Despite being a rare classic, with only 432 units equipped with the powerful 426-cubic-inch HEMI V8, it remains in impeccable condition. Goldberg, treating it as a prized possession, has driven it sparingly, covering just around 100 miles in over two decades.
Adding to its rarity, Goldberg’s Charger is not just any HEMI; it’s a four-speed manual, one of only 119 units with this specific drivetrain. When factoring in the distinctive B5 Blue color and other options, it approaches the status of a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
What sets this Charger apart is its authenticity. Nearly everything, from bumper to bumper, is original—a true numbers-matching marvel. With minor exceptions for components like wheels, battery, and essential powertrain parts, this Charger remains a testament to its original glory.
Goldberg’s 1969 Charger R/T isn’t just a car; it’s a museum-worthy exhibit. With its rare specifications, remarkable condition, and unparalleled originality, it could stand proudly at any Concours d’Elegance, possibly fetching more than $200,000 at auction.
Despite its potential value, Goldberg has no intentions of parting with his beloved Charger. His deep affection for the car is evident in the way he talks about it. While the allure of taking it for a joyride exists, the reality of long-term storage remains, considering Goldberg’s extensive car collection.
While the 1969 Dodge HEMI Charger holds a special place, Goldberg’s personal favorite remains the 1970 Ford Mustang Boss 429 “Lawman.” Though not suited for regular roads, this dragster, in impeccable condition despite its racing history, captivates with its stunning presence.
## FAQs
### Q1: How many 1969 HEMI Chargers were produced?
A1: In 1969, a total of 104,978 Dodge Chargers were produced, with only 432 featuring the powerful 426-cubic-inch HEMI V8.
### Q2: What makes Goldberg’s Charger unique?
A2: Goldberg’s Charger is a four-speed manual HEMI, one of only 119 units with this specific drivetrain, and it boasts the distinctive B5 Blue color, adding to its rarity.
### Q3: Is Goldberg’s Charger entirely original?
A3: Yes, with the exception of wheels, battery, and certain powertrain components that require periodic replacement, the Charger remains authentically original from bumper to bumper.
### Q4: What is Goldberg’s opinion on long-term storage?
A4: Despite the allure of joyrides, Goldberg acknowledges the practicality of long-term storage due to his extensive car collection, expressing a deep love for his Charger.
