Launched in 1969 alongside the Plymouth Barracuda’s third generation, the Dodge Challenger emerged as a fresh contender in the muscle car scene for the 1970 model year. Unbeknownst to Dodge, the muscle car segment was on the brink of decline due to stringent emission regulations and an impending oil crisis.
Despite only offering high-performance engines for a brief period, the Challenger quickly established itself as a standout representative of the iconic muscle car era. Today, some 50 years later, the original Challenger stands as a highly coveted classic.
Desirable Features
What makes the Challenger so sought after? Much like its counterpart, the Barracuda, it boasts a winning combination of appealing features. These include a sporty design, high-compression big-block V8 engines, and eye-catching colors from the renowned High-Impact color palette. Certain configurations make it a rare find.
In 1970, Dodge sold almost 77,000 Challengers, but the truly coveted 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) RB and 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) HEMI powerplants were only found in a few thousand units. Specifically, 356 HEMI cars and 2,035 equipped with the 440 Six-Pack were sold. Merely 3,840 units left the factory with the four-barrel 440.
The Panther Pink Rarity
The featured Challenger R/T, while not an ultra-rare HEMI model, remains highly desirable with its 375-horsepower 440 V8. Its scarcity is further emphasized by the Panther Pink exterior, a short-lived color introduced in 1970. Estimates suggest that less than 0.5% of Challengers delivered that year were finished in Panther Pink, approximately 380 units, irrespective of body style or drivetrain layout.
This particular Challenger, featuring the four-barrel 440/automatic setup, is one of 1,886 R/Ts. Considering the distinctive paint color, the number of similar examples dwindles to less than ten. While not an exact science, the rarity of pink R/Ts is evident.
Interior and Authenticity
Adding to its appeal, this Mopar boasts a white interior, a desirable combination in today’s collector market. Noteworthy is the vehicle’s authenticity, with existing broadcast sheets confirming its status as a true-blue Panther Pink car. The hardtop retains its numbers-matching 440 V8 engine.
Recently showcased at Kissimmee 2024, this Challenger fetched $125,000 at auction, emphasizing its “big does on” status. Interestingly, it wasn’t the sole pink 1970 Challenger R/T at the event. Another, lacking the original 440 V8, crossed the block for a more modest $62,700.
For enthusiasts of Panther Pink/Moulin Rouge Mopars, this Challenger promises a treat. To delve deeper into its details, hit the play button below for a comprehensive walkaround.
# FAQs
**Q1: How many Challengers were sold in 1970?**
A: Dodge sold nearly 77,000 Challengers in 1970.
**Q2: How many Challenger units featured the 440-cubic-inch RB and HEMI powerplants?**
A: Only a few thousand units, with 356 HEMI cars and 2,035 equipped with the 440 Six-Pack.
**Q3: What is the estimated number of Challengers finished in Panther Pink in 1970?**
A: Approximately 380 units, constituting less than 0.5% of deliveries that year.
**Q4: How many R/T Challengers had the four-barrel 440/automatic configuration?**
A: This configuration was found in 1,886 R/T Challengers.
**Q5: What was the auction price for the featured Challenger at Kissimmee 2024?**
A: The Challenger went under the hammer for $125,000.
**Q6: How many pink 1970 Challenger R/Ts were present at the auction, and what differentiates them in terms of price?**
A: There were two pink 1970 Challenger R/Ts; the featured model with the original 440 V8 fetched $125,000, while another lacking the original engine sold for $62,700.
