8 Famous Dodge Challengers and Chargers That Defined Muscle Car History
The recent conclusion of V8 Dodge Challenger and Charger production at the Brampton assembly plant marks the end of a significant chapter in American muscle car history. As the 2024 Dodge Charger prepares to forge ahead without the iconic V8 rumble, it feels like a farewell to an era defined by raw power and nostalgic design, reminiscent of their late 1960s and early 1970s ancestors. While the Challenger nameplate takes a hiatus, similar to the Chevrolet Camaro, its legacy, alongside its Charger sibling, remains indelible. To commemorate this transition, Shocknaue Entertainment News looks back at some of the most iconic models to wear these badges. This list celebrates the greatest Chargers and, especially, the Famous Dodge Challengers that captured imaginations on screen and dominated the streets, proving their enduring appeal even as the automotive landscape evolves.
1970 Dodge Challenger T/A
While the Challenger arrived slightly later to the muscle car scene than the Mustang and Camaro, debuting for the 1970 model year, it came prepared to make a statement. Mopar enthusiasts looking for Famous Dodge Challengers with racing pedigree often point to the T/A (Trans-Am) model. Built specifically to compete in the SCCA Trans-Am racing series, these cars were more than just straight-line performers. Driven by racer Sam Posey, the Challenger T/A battled against the Boss 302 Mustang and Camaro Z/28 on road courses. Although it didn’t clinch the championship, finishing fourth in points ahead of Chevrolet demonstrated the Challenger’s capability beyond the drag strip, solidifying its place in performance car history.
Green 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A with black stripes and hood scoop, a classic Mopar muscle car built for Trans-Am racing.
1970-71 Dodge Challenger R/T 426 Hemi
When discussing truly famous Dodge Challengers, the conversation inevitably turns to the legendary Hemi engine. Available as a costly option in the Challenger R/T (Road/Track) models for 1970 and 1971, the 426 cubic inch (7.0L) V8 was nicknamed the “elephant engine” for its size and power. Officially rated at 425 horsepower, most experts agree it produced significantly more straight from the factory and possessed enormous tuning potential. Its hemispherical combustion chambers were key to its high performance. Due to the high cost, Hemi-equipped Challengers were exceedingly rare; for example, manual transmission coupes with the 426 Hemi accounted for less than 0.1% of 1970 Challenger production. Today, these specific models are among the most sought-after and valuable American muscle cars, often fetching astronomical prices at auction, cementing their status as Mopar royalty.
Purple 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T featuring the legendary 426 Hemi engine, a highly sought-after collector car.
1970 Dodge Challenger R/T 440 – Vanishing Point
While the Hemi reigns supreme for collectors, the Challenger R/T equipped with the 440 cubic inch (7.2L) “Wedge” big-block V8 carved its own legendary path, particularly in pop culture. The white 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T 440 Magnum driven by the anti-hero Kowalski in the 1971 cult classic film Vanishing Point is arguably one of the most famous Dodge Challengers ever depicted on screen. The film follows the ex-cop and racer’s high-speed journey across the American Southwest, pursued relentlessly by law enforcement. Guided only by the voice of blind radio DJ Super Soul, the Challenger becomes a symbol of rebellion and freedom. Though the film ends tragically for car and driver, Vanishing Point became a box office success and remains a touchstone for car chase enthusiasts and Mopar fans, immortalizing this specific Challenger model.
White 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T 440, reminiscent of the iconic car driven by Kowalski in the cult classic film Vanishing Point.
Iconic Chargers Sharing the Spotlight
While our focus is on famous Dodge Challengers, it’s impossible to discuss Mopar muscle car legends without acknowledging their equally iconic Charger siblings, many of which gained fame through memorable entertainment roles.
1969 Dodge Charger – The General Lee (Dukes of Hazzard)
Perhaps the most recognizable TV car of all time, the bright orange 1969 Dodge Charger known as the General Lee became an instant star in The Dukes of Hazzard (1979-1985). With its signature “Dixie” horn, welded doors, “01” decals, and incredible jumps, the General Lee embodied a cartoonish, Southern charm that captivated audiences. Its fame, however, is tinged with controversy, both for the Confederate flag often displayed on its roof and the sheer number of Chargers (estimated around 300) destroyed during filming. Nevertheless, its image remains synonymous with classic TV action.
Bright orange 1969 Dodge Charger 'General Lee' replica famous from The Dukes of Hazzard parked outdoors.
1968 Dodge Charger R/T 440 – Bullitt Villain Car
If the General Lee is television’s hero car, then the black 1968 Dodge Charger R/T 440 from the movie Bullitt (1968) is arguably cinema’s greatest villain car. The film’s legendary chase scene through the streets of San Francisco wouldn’t be nearly as compelling without this menacing Mopar antagonist pursuing Steve McQueen’s Ford Mustang. Powered by a potent 375-horsepower 7.2L V8 with a four-speed manual, and driven by stuntman Bill Hickman playing a hitman, the Charger exuded pure intimidation. Interestingly, Dodge didn’t offer black paint for the ’68 Charger R/T; the movie cars were specially prepared. The surviving “hero” car from filming was later repainted but is believed to still exist.
Menacing black 1968 Dodge Charger R/T 440, the iconic villain car from the movie Bullitt.
1969 Dodge Charger Daytona
Often overshadowed by its winged relative, the Plymouth Superbird, the 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona was the groundbreaking original. This aerodynamic marvel, with its distinctive pointed nose cone and towering rear wing, was a homologation special built expressly to dominate NASCAR tracks. Developed using wind tunnel technology, its slippery shape gave it incredible high-speed stability. The Daytona proved its worth immediately, becoming the first car in NASCAR history to be officially clocked at over 200 mph during its winning debut at the 1969 Talladega 500. It successfully put Dodge back at the forefront of stock car racing.
Red 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona with distinctive nose cone and tall rear wing, a famous NASCAR homologation special.
1970 Dodge Charger R/T 440 – The Fast and the Furious
Launching a global phenomenon in 2001, The Fast and the Furious blended import tuner culture with classic American muscle. The quintessential muscle car presence was provided by Dominic Toretto’s menacing black 1970 Dodge Charger R/T. Allegedly boasting 900 horsepower, this supercharged beast represented Dom’s connection to his father and old-school American power. Its wheel-lifting drag race against Brian O’Conner’s Toyota Supra is one of modern cinema’s most iconic car moments. Though destroyed in the film’s climax, the Charger cemented its place in automotive pop culture and became intrinsically linked with Vin Diesel’s character throughout the franchise’s subsequent installments, ensuring its continued fame.
A Different Kind of Charger Hero: 1987 Shelby Charger GLH-S
The fuel crises of the 1970s largely sidelined the original Charger and Challenger. However, amidst the “malaise era,” a different kind of performance Charger emerged, thanks to Carroll Shelby. The 1987 Shelby Charger GLH-S (“Goes Like Hell S’more”) wasn’t a V8, rear-wheel-drive beast, but it offered surprising potency for its time. Based on the front-wheel-drive L-body Charger, Shelby worked his magic on the final 1,000 units. He equipped the 2.2L four-cylinder engine with an intercooled turbocharger setup, boosting output to 175 horsepower – impressive for the era – channeled through a five-speed manual transmission. With Koni adjustable suspension and performance tires, these black-only pocket rockets offered sharp handling and surprising speed, keeping the performance spirit alive under the Charger name during a challenging period.
Black 1987 Dodge Shelby Charger GLH-S, a rare turbocharged front-wheel-drive performance car from the 1980s.
While the production of V8-powered Challengers and Chargers has ceased, their legacy is far from over. From the track-focused Challenger T/A and the mighty Hemi R/T to the unforgettable cinematic appearances in Vanishing Point, Bullitt, and The Fast and the Furious, these Mopar icons have secured their place in automotive and entertainment history. The famous Dodge Challengers and their legendary Charger stablemates represent more than just metal; they embody an era of American performance, rebellion, and style that continues to resonate with enthusiasts worldwide. As Dodge moves into a new electrified era with the Charger nameplate, the thunderous echoes of these V8 legends will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.
