The 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A (Trans Am) 340 Six Pack stands as one of the most revered muscle cars of its era. This legendary vehicle, produced for a single model year, was Dodge’s entry into the Sports Car Club of America’s (SCCA) Trans American Sedan Championship. With its striking design, powerful engine, and limited production run, the Challenger T/A 340 Six Pack has cemented its place in automotive history.
Design and Styling
The Challenger T/A featured a bold and aggressive design that was characteristic of the muscle car era. Its long hood, short deck, and wide stance gave it a menacing presence on the road. Distinctive features included a fiberglass hood with a large air scoop, racing-style side-exit exhausts, and bold “T/A” graphics on the sides. The car sat on 15-inch wheels wrapped in Goodyear Polyglas GT tires, with the rear tires being wider than the front, a feature that contributed to its muscular look and enhanced performance.
Performance and Powertrain
At the heart of the Challenger T/A was the potent 340 cubic inch (5.6-liter) V8 engine, which was specifically modified for the T/A model. The engine was equipped with three Holley two-barrel carburetors, a setup known as the “Six Pack.” This combination delivered a factory-rated 290 horsepower, though enthusiasts believed the actual output was closer to 350 horsepower. The engine’s performance was further enhanced by a high-lift camshaft, high-flow cylinder heads, and a dual-plane aluminum intake manifold.
The power was sent to the rear wheels through either a heavy-duty 4-speed manual transmission or a 3-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission. The Challenger T/A also featured a Sure-Grip limited-slip differential, which improved traction and handling, making it a formidable competitor on the track.
Handling and Suspension
The Challenger T/A’s handling was a significant focus for Dodge, given its Trans Am racing roots. The car featured an upgraded suspension system with beefier torsion bars, anti-sway bars, and heavy-duty shock absorbers. This setup provided better handling and stability, particularly in high-speed cornering situations. Additionally, the Challenger T/A came with power front disc brakes and larger rear drum brakes, ensuring it had the stopping power to match its go-fast capabilities.
Racing Pedigree
The 1970 Challenger T/A was built to compete in the SCCA Trans Am series, a highly competitive racing circuit dominated by the likes of Ford Mustangs and Chevrolet Camaros. Dodge enlisted the help of famed racer and engineer Ray Caldwell and his Autodynamics team to develop the Challenger T/A race car. Despite showing promise, the Challenger T/A faced stiff competition and reliability issues, which limited its success on the track. Nevertheless, its participation in the series added to its mystique and desirability among collectors.
Legacy and Collectibility
Due to its one-year-only production and racing heritage, the 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A 340 Six Pack has become a highly sought-after collector car. Its combination of aggressive styling, robust performance, and racing pedigree make it a standout in the muscle car pantheon. Today, well-preserved and meticulously restored examples of the Challenger T/A command high prices at auctions and are prized possessions for enthusiasts.
The 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A 340 Six Pack embodies the spirit of the muscle car era. Its distinctive design, powerful engine, and racing lineage ensure its place as an icon of American automotive history. Whether on the track or the street, the Challenger T/A remains a symbol of Dodge’s commitment to performance and innovation during a golden age of motoring.
