Very Sharp B5 Blue Rallye! Numbers Match 340 V8, Auto, A/C, PS/B w/ Front Disc!

Description

This 1973 Dodge Challenger Rallye represents a pretty unique opportunity. Well-equipped and featuring a great color combination, it's also got its original, numbers matching motor and transmission intact that's running so well you'll be tempted to head for the coast every time you hop in. Original, real-deal Rallyes are hard to find these days, so take a closer look and read fast, because we don't expect this Mopar to be with us very long. The dual-scoop hood,... prominent fender vents and white stripes are your first indications that this is no garden variety Challenger, and this particular specimen represents the model exceedingly well, as its correct B5 Bright Blue Metallic exterior and contrasting white top gives it a definite aura of mid-'70s cool. Upon closer inspection, you'll see that the hue has a nice shine, and the chrome trim and bright work are also in fine form. 1973 marked the first year that the Challenger featured prominent bumper guards in front and its fresh, black rubber presents an effective contrast for the clean, straight expanse of chrome they reside on. The Challenger, has a slightly longer wheelbase than its Dodge stablemate Barracuda, but its look remains one of capable agility, a notion that was certainly underscored by high speed, onscreen acrobatics in '70s movies like "Vanishing Point" and television shows like "Mannix", where a Challenger Rallye much like this one was the title character's car of choice. Inside, the black upholstery of the bucket seats in front and bench seat in back are in their original configuration and remain in impressive condition. Featuring a unique tapered shape and high, supportive backs, they're surprisingly comfortable and supportive. Slide into the driver's seat and take your position behind the stock Challenger steering wheel, the shifter with its pistol grip beckoning within easy reach, and in front of you you'll notice that the dash area features a "four-across" instrument cluster design that's another hallmark of the Rallye option. Set against the wood grain pattern of the dash, the instruments themselves are still easily readable behind nice, clear lenses. Just below, the factory AM/FM radio is still in place, although it's inoperable so an upgrade stashed away in the glove box would be a nice addition, and factory A/C has been converted to R134a refrigerant, although a little recharge would help it blow a little colder. But then again, we're in Texas, where air conditioning is never cold enough. A great by-product of the Challenger's relatively long wheelbase is the generous amount of legroom in back - you'll have no hesitation with taking your crew on the road with you, as they'll have plenty of room to stretch out back there. In the spacious trunk, a space-saver spare with plenty of tread sits securely fastened, and the uncovered pans show off how solid this Challenger really is. The original, numbers matching 340 cubic inch V8 sitting under the hood runs incredibly well, and with a factory-estimated 240HP (which was a lot in 1973), it's got plenty of pop for the relatively lightweight body. There's Mopar blue enamel on the engine block and valve covers, and it's topped with a 4-barrel carburetor and orange snorkeled air cleaner and the power plant remains in fine form, firing right up and running smoothly. It's paired with the original A727 Torqueflight transmission, which still shifts with confidence-inspiring security. The ride on this classic achieves an admirable balance between comfort on the straightaways and firmness to conquer turns and that's no accident - the Rallye option also included a suspension featuring upgraded front torsion bars, heavier shocks, stiffer leaf springs and a larger anti-roll bar. This example of vintage MoPar engineering sits on a set of factory 14" wheels, wrapped in BFGoodrich T/A white-letter radials. Looking for a veritable mid-'70s muscle car time machine that's every bit up to the challenge for any excursion you can conjure up? You have to check out this 1973 Dodge Challenger Rallye. Call today!