The 1971 Dodge Challenger V8 stands as a key figure in the final golden age of American muscle car production. This model year brought subtle styling changes, giving the E-Body platform a slightly refreshed and bolder appearance. The 1971 Dodge Challenger V8 featured a new grille and taillight treatment that distinguish it from its 1970 sibling. Enthusiasts regard it as one of the most stylish Mopar muscle machines ever created. This particular Red coupe, Lot T162, presents a striking combination of classic looks and desirable comfort options. Furthermore, its automatic transmission and air conditioning enhance its usability for modern roads.
Iconic Color Scheme and Styling Cues
Finished in bright Red paint, this coupe embodies the high-impact colors Mopar was famous for in the era. The exterior features R/T-style double accent stripes in White, providing a perfect contrast. These dual stripes accentuate the classic Coke-bottle shape of the Challenger’s body sides. Capping the design is a crisp White vinyl top, adding a layer of period-correct sophistication. The look is completed with bright chrome bumpers at both the front and rear of the vehicle. This color pairing ensures the car demands immediate attention wherever it travels.
The Well-Appointed White Interior
The interior contrasts beautifully with the Red exterior, featuring an attractive White vinyl bucket seat upholstery. The color palette provides a sharp, clean, and unmistakably period-correct atmosphere inside the cabin. An appealing woodgrain rimmed steering wheel enhances the driver interface and provides a comfortable grip. A major highlight is the factory air conditioning, a highly sought-after option for these muscle cars. This feature drastically improves passenger comfort during warmer weather excursions.
Handling and Wheels
This 1971 Dodge Challenger V8 is equipped with power steering, which significantly reduces effort, making low-speed maneuvering much easier. Power brakes are also featured, providing more assured and responsive stopping capabilities than standard systems. The coupe rolls on styled Road-style 5-spoke wheels, which are an iconic Mopar component. These classic wheels are wrapped in BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires, delivering a good blend of vintage looks and modern road performance. The overall combination offers a comfortable and confident feel.
V8 Engine Specifications and Performance
Powering this 1971 Dodge Challenger V8 is a robust V-8 engine, matched to a smooth automatic transmission. While the specific engine is not named, the most common V8 options included the reliable 318 or the potent 340 and 383 cubic inch units. The 318 V8 produced 230 gross horsepower, while the 340 V8 delivered 275 gross horsepower. Even the non-R/T 383 two-barrel V8 made 275 gross horsepower, offering a powerful muscle car experience. Performance is transferred efficiently through the automatic transmission, making it an easy cruiser. The presence of power brakes and power steering makes this a well-rounded and enjoyable vehicle. The odometer reads a low 2,284 miles, though total mileage is not guaranteed.
Summary
This 1971 Dodge Challenger V8 represents a prime example of late first-generation E-Body styling and comfort. It features a stunning Red and White color scheme and includes desirable options like power brakes, power steering, and air conditioning. The attractive white bucket seat interior and classic Mopar wheel style contribute to its strong collector appeal. Combining muscle car looks with creature comforts, this Red coupe is a standout. This classic 1971 Dodge Challenger V8 is scheduled to cross the auction block at Las Vegas 2025.
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Source: mecum.com
