28th Mar 2006, 12:02
Don't listen to the guy who says "sell your Challenger and buy something 'worthwhile' instead." What he doesn't realize is that owning a classic car isn't always about the money it's worth. I have a 1973 Mercedes sedan and a 1964 Ford F100 that will NEVER be considered classics of great value, but I absolutely love them anyway! Classics are about the fun you have with them, not the money you make off them. Anyone who truly loves classic cars knows that. 90% of collectors don't own classic cars because they're an investment; they own them because they're cool! The 1970 Challengers were beautiful cars, and I congratulate you for returning one to its former beauty. Stick with the restoration; you won't regret it when you can drive it down the road and watch people's heads turn.
28th Mar 2006, 15:54
Uh, it's not like this is the last '70 Challenger left in existence. There are plenty still avail that have much more potential for restoration than the rusted-out example that the reviewer owns. Throwing money into trying to "restore" a not-all-that-rare of a car with major rust problems does not make sense, unless there is some sort of sentimental attachment to THIS particular car.
1st May 2006, 09:02
Hey, I definitely think you should restore this car, but whatever you do, don't sell it. This sounds to be a car you definitely want to fix up ASAP, being that you have worked on it since 6th grade. If I had my own of those, I would definitely do the same.
Did I mention I'm only 21? And yes, I too don't drive imports. They are a waste of my time; I want power, not the other crap.
BTW, I don't know if anyone has heard yet, but they are coming out with the new Challenger in 2008.
My dad has one of the original, few left in existence RT/SE 1970 Dodge Challengers. It's loaded with a 440 Big Block. He is currently working on the paint job. This thing is definitely a thing of beauty, even without the paint. All you import lovers may hide your cars now. That is all.
1st May 2006, 15:47
I disagree... this is also his very first car. I know because I had a similiar project before I even had my license. The likelihood of buying a new Challenger is slim at his age perhaps many years off. If you have space and can protect it I would learn everything I possibly could from adults, advisors even my shop teacher. The small block will keep your insurance low and you could change that later even. I learned over time by enlisting support from my family and friends restoring mine. I made a lot of mistakes, but learned to weld, body work, mechanical all but paint from a patient stepdad. I remember ordering parts especially doing the seats with my new hog ring tools one winter my first perfect result.
I also remember coming home and having a project that I was enthused to no end. I also know it's a good way to be focused and appreciate building a car. It also kept me out of trouble. Many years later I helped my son build his first car a total restoration and now he has done a couple Mustang GTs projects engines,nitrous, transmissions even powder coating... and he is still in his twenties.
17th Jan 2006, 22:59
I've been in love with the Challanger ever since I saw "Vanishing Point"