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Dodge Challenger R/T 440
Even though Plymouth had the Barracuda, which was the first pony car model they introduced two weeks before the Ford Mustang, its stablemate, Dodge didn’t enter the segment until 1970. Some muscle car historians said Dodge was almost late for the party, but the Challenger was so good that it left its mark and reserved a place in history. Mopar’s E-Body models, the Barracuda and Challenger were brand new for 1970. They featured new designs and better construction, as well as wider and longer bodies.
There was no significant mechanical difference between the Barracuda and the Challenger. The only difference was the design, although these two cars had some interchangeable bodywork parts, as well. They presented the Challenger with the full firepower of Mopar’s engines. Buyers could get the powerful 383 V8, as well as a big 440 and the famous 426 Hemi. The best performers were the 440 and the Hemi.
Depending on the specifications, differential ratio and gearboxes, Challengers equipped with those engines could accelerate to 60 mph in 5.5 to 5.7 seconds range, which was quick for 1970. Doing a road trip in a muscle car is a mainstream concept, but it is still cool and typically American. However, the 440 V8 is more common and almost as fast as the Hemi, and still cool-looking and unique, too.