The second generation of the Charger was a huge success. A staggering 96,100 customers flocked to showrooms in order to purchase the 1968 version. In 1969, Dodge managed to sell an impressive 104,978 cars, a record that remained unbroken until 1973. While the 1969 Charger is widely regarded as a popular classic, it is also quite commonplace compared to other Mopar nameplates from the same model year.
However, the R/T model is a bit more elusive. Dodge only equipped less than 20% of the total production with this high-performance package. More specifically, 19,298 customers chose the R/T bundle, which included a reinforced suspension, bucket seats, and a powerful big-block V8 as standard.
As for the number of these vehicles still in existence, it remains uncertain due to the fact that some are still decaying in junkyards. Fortunately, there are still examples that have been stored in garages and barns and have managed to remain intact. This particular Medium Green Poly R/T is one of those rare finds.
Having been parked for nearly two decades, this Charger is in need of extensive restoration. It is covered in a thick layer of dust, missing certain components, and has significant rust on the lower body. However, it is a genuine R/T, as confirmed by the fender tag that remains with the car. Furthermore, it boasts a combination of options that make it quite unique.
To begin with, it is a triple-green vehicle. Despite the white top, the original vinyl top was green, which was a factory option at the time. The interior is also a lighter shade of green and remains in decent condition. This all-green appearance is a rarity in today’s world.
In addition, this Mopar was ordered without stripes. While there is no information on how many Charger owners chose this option, it is widely believed that the stripe-delete feature is relatively uncommon. Dodge did, however, include large “R/T” badges on the rear fenders, a feature that was only available for one year.
Under the hood, there is both good news and bad news. The good news is that the engine bay houses a 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) RB V8, which is the correct engine for a Charger R/T. In 1969, this muscle car came standard with the 440 and had the option for a 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) HEMI V8, which was quite rare with only 432 units produced.
The bad news is that the 440 engine is not the original. According to our host, the engine is date-coded from 1971, indicating that a previous owner performed an engine swap at some point. While the lack of the factory engine does impact the car’s value, this Charger is still worth restoring. It has the potential to become a stunning classic, and the combination of optional features makes it a rare configuration. Additionally, finding a 1969-coded 440 V8 should not be too difficult, as they are still quite common.
We have already seen a walkaround of this car a few weeks ago, but now it is time to witness it emerging from the garage after nearly two decades.
According to the Source autoevolution.com