The most notable change on the 1973 Dodge Challenger was the elimination of the six-cylinder engine option. As a result, the Challenger was available only with V8 engines – the standard unit was a 318 with 150 horsepower (this was the net power, as beginning in 1973, carmakers dropped the gross ratings).
The Rallye unit sported more power thanks to the 340, though later in the same model year, Dodge upgraded this version to the 360 V8.
The carmaker eventually produced over 32,500 Challengers, up from 26,600 units the previous year.
One of the Challenger Rallye examples still around made its way to Craigslist not long ago, hoping to impress someone not only with its project car condition but also with a big-block surprise under the hood.
The images speak for themselves and prove the car comes in a rough shape. It’s not surprising, though, as the vehicle has been sitting for 25 years – I’m guessing the Challenger slept under the clear sky, which explains the rough body shape and the rust invasion. The owner says on Craigslist that the trunk pan is rusty, but otherwise, everything is solid and waiting for restoration.
The engine under the hood could catch the attention of Challenger fans. The vehicle is fitted with a 440 big-block unit, but unfortunately, we’re not getting more information on the engine.
The 1973 Rallye wasn’t available with a 440, so the big block most likely comes from another Challenger, possibly a 1970 or 1971 R/T.
Dodge offered a 440 4-barrel unit with 375 horsepower on the Challenger R/T in 1970, but the same version could also be ordered for this model year with a 440 Six Pack rated at 390 horsepower. The same engine continued to be available in 1971, though it produced 340 horsepower this time.
It’s impossible to tell if the engine is still alive, but whoever installed the big block probably planned a massive performance upgrade – the 340 on the Rallye developed 240 horsepower, while the 360 increased the rating by just five horsepower.
Most of the parts are still on this Challenger, but it doesn’t mean they come in great shape. This is a rough project that’ll require a ton of work, but considering 1973 Rallyes aren’t common, it should sell fast at the right price.
And speaking about the price, this is the major shortcoming for this Challenger getting another chance to return to the road. If you want to see it in person (and I strongly advise you to), you’ll find this Challenger project close to Houston.