Best Features Of The 1969 Dodge Charger R/T

The Dodge Charger is one of the most famous muscle cars of all time, and the legendary 1969 Dodge Charger R/T also remains one of enthusiasts' most favorite classic American muscle car. Also, to add to its fame, the '80s TV show called The Dukes of Hazzard, featured the General Lee bright orange 1969 Dodge Charger R/T. The Dodge Charger is a rear-wheel-drive midsize two-door hardtop based on the Chrysler B platform. In 1968, the R/T models debuted in showrooms. For the most part, though, 1969 was the Chargers’ golden year.

Dodge could no longer ignore the protests of Dodge dealers, who were being decimated by the new Ford Mustang's sales in 1965. Dealers asked Dodge for a 'Mustang-killer,' preferably for a market other than the small, Valiant-based Barracuda. Dodge's response was the 1966 Dodge Charger.

The first-generation Dodge Charger had one of the widest fastback roofs and rear windows in the industry. It was huge, slab-sided, and had a luxurious interior. The interior featured four bucket seats, a cabin-length center console, leather, and wood grain. The first generation Charger was an experiment, a high-end vehicle without the Chrysler brand that was presumably aimed at a younger demographic.

Let's tell you more about this amazing muscle car through the best features of the 1969 Dodge Charger R/T.

The Legendary 1969 Dodge Charger R/T

The R/T is a performance designation used on Dodge vehicles. The introduction of the Charger R/T (Rush & Track) was to target users in need of powerful adrenaline rush at an affordable price. To achieve this, the 440 four-barrel V8 provided the base power, while the heavy-duty suspension managed the handling. This technique was so impressive that it was carried on to 1969 with resounding success.

Charger R/T models come standard with stronger engines, updated suspensions, performance tires, and improved brakes. It also had sportier trim, distinctive paint schemes, and racing stripes. On 1969 Charger R/Ts, the 440 Magnum engine is standard, with the NASCAR-inspired 426 Hemi engine available as an option. Because only 432 Hemi Chargers were built, they are extremely rare. Multiple published documents from Chrysler Corporation's Dodge Division show that a total of 18,776 Charger R/Ts were built in 1969, with only 432 of those receiving the 426 Hemi.

The 1969 Dodge Charger R/T: An Engineering Masterpiece!

To participate in the emerging muscle car fad, Dodge needed a midsize automobile. As a result, Dodge Studios created the new Dodge Coronet for 1966. The Charger was created by changing the deck lid, roofline, quarter panels, and front grille. The automobile was updated in 1968. New hood and trunk lines, scalloped doors, and a Coke Cola bottle side profile were also among the changes. The new Charger was a hit and quickly became a classic.

Charger remained unchanged for 1969, except for a few minor changes. The redesigned front grille with a center divider was the most visible alteration. There are also new horizontal tail lights. The bumblebee stripe on the back has also been modified.

Now, each quarter panel has an R/T logo cutout in the middle of a big stripe in the middle of two smaller stripes. Without the stripes, each quarter was adorned with a metal R/T symbol. A new SE (Special Edition) trim option was also introduced for 1969, which was available on both the R/T and Standard Charger variants. Leather front seats are included in the SE level. The dash, center console, and steering wheel all have wood grain, as do the chrome rocker moldings. The SE trim made the Charger appear more opulent. A new sunroof option was also available for the 69'.

In almost 40 years, the 1969 Dodge Charger R/T still remained one of the most well-known Classic American Muscle Cars of all time. Because the car has appeared in several films and television shows throughout the years. The General Lee was a brilliant orange 1969 Dodge Charger R/T which featured in The Dukes of Hazzard TV series. Every episode featured the orange charger performing incredible jumps. For the TV show, around 300 General Lee automobiles were built.

However, the majority of them were wrecked while doing stunts. The TV show aired from 1979 through 1985, and the brilliant orange 1969 Dodge Charger R/T became one of the most iconic TV automobiles. In 2005, The Dukes of Hazzard Movie featured the orange Charger once more.

The Price Of A 1969 Dodge Charger R/T Today

For years, the value of a 1969 Dodge Charger has steadily risen. The 2005 remake of The Dukes of Hazzard increased the car’s value by 64 percent in just one year: an immaculate Charger R/T may cost anywhere from $40,200 to $100,000. The 2005 Kelley Blue Book reports that prices for 1969 Chargers have continued to rise since the 2005 peak.

According to J.D. Power’s National Automobile Dealers’ Association, a mint 1969 Dodge Charger 440 R/T with a manual transmission is worth at least $46,500, and an automatic transmission is worth at least $57,105. However, because there are so many Chargers made, there are many less expensive choices. Some muscle car fans even purchase base-model 1969 Chargers and convert them to V8 R/T “tribute” vehicles. Others create Restomods that pound the pavement. On the other hand, you may get high-quality 1969 Dodge Charger R/Ts for something between $50,000 and $120,000.

Source: WowMuscleCars, AutoEvolution.