Photo: PJ's Auto World/autoevolution
One fascinating thing about the first-generation Dodge Challenger, among many others, is that it was there at the dawn of the muscle car era, as well as during its final chapter, when it still managed to capture the essence of what made muscle cars so beloved, despite all the market changes and regulatory changes.
For the 1973 model year, Dodge gave the Challenger a few small design updates, like the federally mandated 5 mph bumpers on the front and rear. They didn't exactly help the overall aesthetics of the vehicle, but they didn't ruin it or anything.
In terms of performance, the early 1970s presented significant challenges. Increasingly stringent emissions regulations, coupled with rising insurance and fuel costs (due to the oil crisis), forced automakers to downgrade their engines and rethink their entire approach.
It was 1972 when the R/T series was replaced by the Rallye, which had four simulated front fender scoops, matte black tape stripes, and three engine choices in the 225 ci six-cylinder, 318 ci V8, and 340 ci V8. At least the latter was equipped with a 4-barrel carburetor and dual exhausts, but power was far from impressive: just 240 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque. To be fair, the torque was decent.
In 1973, the base 225ci six-cylinder engine was eliminated, leaving just two V8s. Everything else remained the same.
While that 340 ci V8 was considered a good all-purpose engine, it was still a step down from the monstrous HEMI units that once defined the Challenger. People still appreciate them today, though, and a clean, numbers-matching 1973 Challenger Rallye will always set you back a pretty penny.
A case in point is this car right here, currently listed for $54,900. Not only does it feature a genuine H-code numbers-matching 340ci V8, but it also has a numbers-matching 727 automatic transmission to go with an Edelbrock 4-barrel carburetor, electronic ignition, quad dual exhaust, front disc brakes, 14″ Magnum wheels with white-lettered BFGoodrich tires, and a rather rare exterior color called Parchment.
Photo: PJ's Auto World
You also get the black stripe package, a blacked-out rear quarter panel, Rallye hood, and chrome mirrors. It’s a pretty cool thing, especially without those federally mandated bumpers.
Interior details include bucket seats, Rallye Gauge package, floor shifter, and a factory-style working AM/FM radio.
According to the listing, this Challenger has only 86,072 miles on it, which in this case would also include chassis mileage. Not bad for a 51-year-old muscle car.
I actually feel a little weird calling the '73 Challenger Rallye a muscle car, because it's a shell of its former self. Not only is it much slower than its predecessors, it doesn't even look very good, and it's not just the bumpers (in general), but the overall styling of the front fascia.