Rare 1971 Dodge Challenger Flexes HEMI Orange Paint, Extensive Options List

Even though the nameplate soldiered on through 1974, the 1970-1971 iterations remain the most desirable. And while the 383-cubic-inch (6.3-liter) cars are common, the other big-block models are rare. The HEMI Challenger takes the top spot, with only 356 made in 1970 and 71 sold in 1971.

The high-compression engines weren't the only features discontinued for 1972. Dodge also dropped the convertible body style after the 1971 model year, making the drop-top a two-year-only version. And because convertibles weren't very popular at the time, they also carried low-production status.

In 1970, only 3,884 customers went with the retractable top. Demand dropped to just 1,857 examples the following year. Not surprisingly, the one-in-nine 1970 HEMI Challenger Convertible is the most sought-after and expensive of the bunch. But unlike its Barracuda twin, which also got the HEMI 'Cuda treatment in 1971, the Challenger drop-top wasn't available in range-topping R/T trim that year. So there's no 1971 HEMI Convertible to talk about.

However, low demand and certain option combos turn quite a few 1971 drop-tops into rare gems. This HEMI Orange beauty is one of them. In the same family since it was brand-new, this Challenger left the assembly line with the 340-cubic-inch (5.6-liter) V8 under the hood. Rated at 275 horsepower and 340 pound-feet (461 Nm) of torque, the 340 V8 was part of a bundle that also included an R/T-like hood, a bigger radiator, and front/rear sway bars.

How many were ordered like this? Well, that's a bit of a mystery. Some statistics mention 1,226 non-R/T 340 units, but the figure includes both hardtop and convertible models. If we factor in the known percentage of drop-tops made that year (which isn't statistically correct), we would be looking at fewer than 90 units. The automatic gearbox would narrow that number to around 60 examples.

But that's irrelevant because this Challenger 340 is also loaded with options, some of which you won't see on many other rigs. The list includes power windows, front/rear bumper guards, bucket seats, a Rallye dash, painted mirrors, and a luggage rack. This Challenger was also ordered with chrome front molding, a rare appearance add-on. In all, this Challenger may very well be a one-of-a-kind classic.

Scarcity aside, this Mopar is one of those nice family-owned oldtimers that's still on the road. As our host points out, it's not a perfect restoration but an excellent driver. And the HEMI Orange over white paint scheme makes it nearly identical to the Indy 500 pace cars some dealers ordered in 1971. Check it out in the video below.