The Dodge Challenger Trans Am was a distinguished special edition with high-performance character. Released in 1969 as a 1970 model, the T/A was engineered mainly for SCCA Trans-Am racing. Unfortunately, these limited-edition models would be discontinued due to the cost of development. The fact that not many of these were sold makes them incredibly rare today, attracting the attention of many collectors.
It was estimated that the T/A made at least 350 horsepower despite being officially rated at 290. Gorgeous styling made the Challenger stand out as one of Dodge’s best-looking creations to date. Here we’ll look into the details of the 1970 Challenger T/A and its timeless nostalgia.
The 1970 Challenger Was Offered In Three Trims
In addition to the standard model, the 1970 Challenger was offered in three trims which included the R/T (Road & Track), T/A (Trans Am), and SE (Special Edition). The Trans Am edition incorporated body elements such as Goodyear Polyglas tires, racing stripes, and side exhaust. The exterior featured sleek, unique styling with a fiberglass air hood and plastic ducktail spoilers. The chassis also had 15” fenders, which differed from other E-body Dodge models.
Heavy-duty suspension along with a substantial sway bar and torsion bars were fitted to the T/A. It came standard with black steel wheels with the option of AAR silver rally wheels. The tires were sourced from Goodyear, E60x15s in the front and G60x15s in the rear. A Hurst pistol grip shifter made changing gears a breeze and was paired to either a standard 4-speed or 727 TorqueFlite transmissions.
The Challenger T/A Was Fitted With A 340 Six Pack Engine
The T/A was fitted with a 340 Six Pack engine, also referred to as the Six Barrel in Plymouth variants. This was one of the most legendary and short-lived engines in Dodge history. The Six Pack was capable of 290 horsepower (at 5,000rpm) and 345lb-ft of torque (at 3,400rpm). This engine incorporated Holley 2300 series carburetors.
It was said that the T/A could achieve the quarter-mile in 14.3 seconds at 99.5 miles per hour. It could go from 0 to 60mph in 5.8 seconds and had a purported top speed ranging from 128-146mph.
Original 1970 Challenger T/A Models Are Incredibly Rare
Due to the scarcity of genuine Challengers of this type, there are many counterfeits that should be avoided. Fortunately, the VIN number for a genuine T/A is clearly marked on numerous components, including a plate adjacent to the oil pan and one near the transmission. Authentic Six Pack engines are denoted with a specific casting number (3577130-TA340). Various other locations on the chassis indicate the authenticity of a T/A, which should be evaluated thoroughly prior to purchasing.
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An SCCA race-spec 1970 Dodge Challenger raced by drivers Sam Posey and Tony Adamowicz in the Trans-Am series sold for $170,500 in 2015. This was one of just two original race-spec Challengers that provided a foundation for the production T/A models. It's likely that if either of the race-spec Challengers sold today they would be worth significantly more. Production Challenger T/As also fetch high prices at auction due to their rare and timeless qualities.
Sources: Hemmings, Mecum Auctions, Kendall Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A