Original Dodge Challengers powered by Hemi engines are already close to the peak of muscle car collectibility.
However, a bright orange Challenger coupe could possibly be the holy grail for Mopar enthusiasts.
Thoroughly restored to immaculate condition, this is the only 1970 Hemi Challenger R/T that was made with a factory sunroof.
However, a bright orange Challenger coupe could possibly be the holy grail for Mopar enthusiasts.
Thoroughly restored to immaculate condition, this is the only 1970 Hemi Challenger R/T that was made with a factory sunroof.
From the track to the street
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| 1970 Sunroof Hemi Challenger |
Producing 425 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque, the 426 Hemi was sold for just five years between 1966 and 1971. Fewer than 11,000 cars were sold with the giant block, in part due to the substantial cost.
A 1970 Challenger R/T buyer would have needed to spend an extra $779 to get the Hemi, adding almost 25 percent to the list price. It perhaps explains why fewer than 200 Challenger Hemi coupes were sold that year.
Fully loaded with options
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| 1970 Sunroof Hemi Challenger |
The impressive Go Mango exterior paint was complemented by optional 15-inch Rallye wheels. A white interior features six-way power bucket seats, along with a AM radio and 8-track player.
A four-speed manual transmission came as part of the Super Track Pak, along with a 4.10 Dana rear axle. Power steering and power brakes were included due to the Hemi engine being equipped.
A truly unique machine
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| 1970 Sunroof Hemi Challenger |
Ticking this box meant the Challenger would be taken from the production line in October 1969 and handed to Detroit-based ASC. The company would complete the official sunroof conversion, before the car went on to its life in California.
Steve Juliano, the late car collector and restorer, would come to acquire the car. The unique sunroof Challenger R/T would be the final restoration project completed by him.
Restored to original condition
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| 1970 Sunroof Hemi Challenger |
This Hemi Challenger R/T still wears its original bodywork, and has the same Hemi engine it left the factory with. Inside, the dashboard is original, whilst the optional Rim Blow steering wheel is a new old stock item.
The Rallye wheels wear period-correct Goodyear Polyglas tires, serving as a reminder of just how much attention was paid by Juliano.
Just how expensive is a unicorn?
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| 1970 Sunroof Hemi Challenger |
Examples of the nine Hemi-powered Challenger R/T convertible frequently top more than $1.5 million at auction, like this car sold in 2019.
A closer comparison might be the 1971 Plymouth ‘Cuda convertible, of which only two exist with a Hemi engine and manual transmission. Mecum’s 2014 Seattle sale saw one of these cars sell for an incredible $3.5 million.
No silence needed in this gallery
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| 1970 Sunroof Hemi Challenger |
The car was featured at the Mecum 2020 Glendale event earlier in the year, but for now remains unsold. No price is listed, leaving serious buyers free to negotiate.
Whatever the cost, this sunroof Hemi is likely to be worth the price for the muscle car collector who already has everything.
See more at: Motoring Research
