Even as automakers continue to shift gears and deliver vehicles powered by more renewable sources, they'll have a hard time shaking the legacy of the venerable muscle car. Particularly as long as owners keep them running in top shape. A prime example of that unrepentant loyalty to all fast things internal combustion, is this Dodge classic, namely a 1971 Charger that sports a slew of formidable hardware spotted at a recent car meet.
Chargers Among The Greatest Muscle Cars Ever
The Charger in this video has had the same owner for more than 30 years and has undergone several transformations in that time. To date, it's run on four engines, each more powerful than its predecessor. The green exterior comes from the contemporary Dodge Super Bee, and that oh-so-70s vinyl "Landau roof" was not only retained but refinished. Even the massive spoiler was originally silver but has been carbon-wrapped in black.
This monster apparently generates up to 1,200 horsepower. Formidable, if not quite the record. It lends credibility to gearheads who love to tinker with these classic Dodges; particularly the Charger, which has been ranked as one of the greatest muscle cars ever built.
From a 383 To A 540 Engine
When purchased, this Charger had a 383 V8, which was initially replaced by a 440. Another 44o with a blower followed until that was replaced by its current engine, a 540 with Indy cylinder head. It also boasts a 1071 supercharger, and Hillborn electronic fuel injection. As a counter measure, the car is fitted with 12-inch Wildwood disc brakes.
Despite having a Champion four-row radiator, this beast still runs hot, which is no surprise. An earlier incarnation of this Charger won the Mopar National Blowout competition in 1997 before catching on fire.
Destined For The Strips In 2021
The modifications are geared towards eventually bringing this Charger back to the dragstrip. But most of the changes were completed in October, just when the drag racing season, abbreviated by the pandemic, was drawing to a close. Hopes are when this Charger hits the asphalt in 2021, it will cover a quarter-mile in roughly 8.5 seconds.
Source: US Classic Muscle Cars