Take a look at this Backyard Rescue of a Rare 1971 Challenger R/T!
In a tale that reads like automotive archaeology, a hidden treasure in the form of a 1971 Challenger R/T recently emerged from the shadows, tucked away in a backyard. The owner, Ryan, had no inkling of the classic car’s presence until a friend, Mitch, dropped a bombshell revelation.
Mitch reached out to Ryan, asking if he had any interest in a 1971 Challenger R/T. Intrigued, Ryan’s passion for vintage cars piqued, and he decided to investigate. Astonishingly, the car was discovered just a mile from Ryan’s residence, concealed in a backyard. It turned out that Mitch had not only uncovered this hidden gem but had also become its proud new owner.
With the opportunity to explore and document the vehicle, Ryan embarked on a journey to unveil the mysteries surrounding this rare 1971 Dodge Challenger R/T. The car, an early build from November, boasts unique features, including the original 71 Hood stripe and black grills exclusive to 1971 Challenger RTS.
Originally utilized for racing, the Challenger had weathered the elements since the early ’80s, parked and untouched in the previous owner’s yard. The car’s Citron yellow exterior, devoid of a vinyl top, conceals a black interior, with distinctive details like body-painted mirrors and side scoops characteristic of 71 Challengers.
Despite the toll of time and exposure, the car retains some remarkable elements. An original aluminum rear window louver, a rarity among Mopar enthusiasts, stands out as a testament to its authentic heritage. The vehicle’s journey through the years is visible in the unique quirks, such as the mismatched tail light surrounds, hinting at a racing past.
Peeling back the layers, Ryan and his friend Seth explored the interior, revealing a well-preserved dashboard thanks to the car’s history under a cover in the previous owner’s backyard. The velour-upholstered back seat, a product of an earlier restoration, exuded a nostalgic aroma, while the center console bore the marks of mysterious racing switches.
Underneath the car’s hood, the numbers-matching 727 transmission and an engine, reportedly sourced from a 1970 Cuda, told tales of a powerful past. A November-built 1971 Challenger, it showcased remnants of the previous model year, such as a ’70-style spoiler. The discovery even revealed a 1970 fender on the passenger side, providing a glimpse into the manufacturing intricacies of this automotive time capsule.
The trunk, though showing signs of wear and tear, still housed relics of its racing days, including the original bracketry for the spoiler. Despite challenges like rust and deteriorating conditions, the originality of the car shone through, presenting a canvas for restoration enthusiasts.
The climax of this automotive adventure was the unveiling of the original 340 engine, now weathered and dirty but undeniably authentic. A rare find, it serves as a beacon of hope for the Challenger’s potential restoration, complete with matching numbers that tie it back to its glory days.
This 1971 Challenger R/T, despite its current state, is more than a neglected relic; it’s a captivating story waiting to be rewritten. As the car is now available for sale at $22,000, it presents an opportunity for a passionate enthusiast to revive a piece of automotive history, preserving the spirit of a bygone era and ensuring the Challenger’s legacy continues to burn brightly on the open road.
