A High-Performance Masterpiece
If you’re a true muscle car enthusiast, the 1971 Dodge Challenger Resto Mod is sure to set your heart racing. This classic American muscle car is a true ground pounder, boasting an astonishing 688 horsepower and 660 lbs of torque from its pro-built 528 Hemi engine. But it’s not just about raw power – this Challenger has undergone a remarkable transformation with a $252,000 build that resulted in a ground-up high-performance, show-quality rotisserie restoration.
A Dream Realized by Passionate Gearheads
This automotive masterpiece is the result of a collaboration between a dedicated mechanical and electrical engineer gearhead and a group of like-minded and qualified friends. Together, they set out to design a vehicle that not only showcased show-quality fit and finish but was also safe and reliable at speeds exceeding 180 mph. The objective was to create a car that could perform on the track and still be driven casually for an ice cream run. And they succeeded in spectacular fashion.
Award-Winning Excellence
The 1971 Dodge Challenger Resto Mod’s accolades speak for themselves. With only 1,620 miles since its meticulous restoration, this beauty has been turning heads and taking home awards. Notably, it won its class at the prestigious Portland Roadster Show and even landed a five-page spread in Hot Rod magazine. In the world of classic muscle cars, this Challenger is undoubtedly one of the best-built examples you’ll ever come across.
Exterior: A Work of Art
The transformation of this Challenger started by stripping the body to a bare metal shell and mounting it on a rotisserie. The custom all-metal R/T hood with a raised bulge immediately catches the eye, and the mini-tubbed and rolled wheel lips make space for the massive wheels. The marker lights and fuel filler were seamlessly filled, and a fabricated steel front spoiler was added.
The bodywork is impeccable, with not a single imperfection in sight. The panels fit precisely, and the 2-stage PPG flame yellow paint, after color sanding and polishing, gleams like glass. Custom vinyl graphics add a unique touch, and all-new glass, show-quality chrome, and trim complete the exterior. Even the weather strips and seals have been replaced. The unique Forgeline wheels, sized 20×10 in the front and 20×11.5 in the back, are wrapped in grippy Michelin Pilot Sport performance tires.
Interior: A Perfect Blend of Comfort and Performance
Inside the cabin, Recaro sport seats with 6-point harnesses offer both comfort and security. The dual-texture, leather-wrapped door panels and custom rear panels continue the theme of high-quality materials. An integrated 11-point roll cage not only enhances safety but is fully functional and tied into the car’s structure.
A custom pedal box and pedal assembly, reupholstered dash pad, custom instrument bezel with a full set of VDO gauges, new carpet, and headliner complete the interior. With a Momo steering wheel and a pistol grip shifter in hand, every drive promises to be an exhilarating experience.
Engine Compartment: A Powerhouse Under the Hood
Under the hood, you’ll find a pro-built, high-performance 528 Hemi engine that’s been meticulously blueprinted and balanced. Boasting 688 horsepower and 660 lbs of torque, this engine is a true marvel. It features a Keith Black block, Mopar forged crank, Oliver rods, JE 10.5:1 pistons, a Comp cam, Miloden timing gears, and a dry/wet sump conversion. On top are a set of Mopar aluminum heads (ported & polished), an Indy Prototype intake, an 1150 Holley carb, and an MSD ignition system. Remarkably, this powerhouse runs on pump gas.
A 2.75-inch custom ceramic-coated headers and a Griffin aluminum radiator, overflow bottle, water pump, fabricated shroud, and dual electric fans ensure that the engine stays cool, even during high-speed runs. Additional features like a NASCAR-style external engine oil cooler and remote filter make this engine compartment a testament to meticulous engineering.
Trunk Compartment: Clean and Functional
The trunk compartment is all about functionality. Clean metal with a black chip guard paint, along with a 32-gallon Fuel Safe fuel cell, ensures that everything is in its place. The relocated battery with a disconnect switch adds a practical touch to this beautiful beast.
Underside: The Perfect Foundation
The foundation of this Challenger is equally impressive. Upfront, you’ll find a Magnum Force tubular K-member and control arms, Aldan adjustable coilover gas shocks, IPD swaybar, and a TRW rack & pinion steering. Welded-in frame rails tie the front to the back, ensuring stability and control. In the rear, a 4-link system with Aladin coilover adjustable gas shocks and IPD swaybar continues to enhance performance.
The Brembo brake system features 14.5″ front and 14″ rear slotted discs, billet calipers, aluminum hats, and custom brackets for impressive stopping power. The 3-inch custom-made ceramic-coated stainless exhaust with a crossover pipe and Flowmaster mufflers deliver a throaty roar, while hand-fabricated floor panels ensure a clean and finished underside. Everything is painted gloss black, showcasing the attention to detail that defines this remarkable 1971 Dodge Challenger Resto Mod.
In conclusion, the 1971 Dodge Challenger Resto Mod is more than just a classic muscle car; it’s a testament to passion, craftsmanship, and engineering excellence. With its show-quality finish, award-winning pedigree, and jaw-dropping performance, this Challenger is undoubtedly one of the finest examples of automotive artistry you’ll ever come across. Whether you’re a dedicated gearhead or simply appreciate automotive excellence, this Resto Mod Challenger is sure to leave a lasting impression.