1973 DODGE CHARGER

AS FAR AS US MUSCLE CARS GO, THIS IS UP THERE WITH THE BIGGEST AND BADDEST

THE THIRD-GENERATION B-Body Charger, launched in 1971, featured a new split grille and a more rounded body than the iconic second-generation Charger.

The Coronet and Charger model lines were merged, with the Coronet badge denoting four-door B-bodies and the Charger name donning the two-door shape.

The 1973 cars featured new sheet-metal, most visually identifiable around the C-pillars and rear quarter window. Over all the car gained length, width and was slightly taller than the preceding 1971/72 cars.

Engine options included a 318ci as standard, ranging through 340ci, 360ci, 400ci units – topping out the range with a godly 440ci donk.

American Chargers themselves are a rare sight in Australia, and third-generations have historically taken a back seat to the 68-70 second-gen cars.

The upside is lower demand usually means lower prices.

Looking at the top-end of the US muscle collector cars in the Australian scene, this ’73 Charger on offer by TGS Muscle Cars in Melbourne, and its $58,000 price tag looks very appealing.

It’s is fitted with the correct 440 V8, which claimed 289kW. TGS believes it to be the original engine, however it states that the engine number is too faded to read.

The car however boasts extensive history, and even includes the original dealer invoice, with matching original delivery specification.

Over $7000 has been spent restoring the car’s original Blue Metallic hue to its dealership-quality lustre, and the car includes rare factory options such as air conditioning, power brakes, power steering and several other options. Upgrades include the sports hood, dual racing mirrors and bucket seats, as well as an aftermarket Flowmaster exhaust.

For under $60,000, you’d be hard-pressed to find another US muscle car with a factory 440 – harder still to find any Mustang or Camaro in this condition.

This is a big car with a stonking motor to match.