In 1970, the Challenger could be purchased with a variety of options, ranging from a standard 5,600 cm3 engine displacement and 275 hp, to a HEMI engine providing 425 hp of power. The Challenger was featured in coupe and convertible versions.
The T/A model was manufactured to be able to homologate a competition version of the Challenger, according to the regulations of the Trans Am category, belonging to the SCCA (Sport Car Club of America). This street Trans Am version featured a matte black fiberglass bonnet, rear spoiler, side exhaust outlets and an air intake in the hood.
The version T/A was equipped with a 5.600 cm3 V8 engine that delivered more than 300 hp, although officially the declared power was 290 hp. The V8 had 3 double-mouth carburetors. Thanks to special shock absorbers, the T/A accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 6 seconds and traveled the quarter mile in 14.5 seconds. Amazing numbers for a '70s street car.
When environmental regulations changed, affecting emission levels, coupled with the oil crisis, high-performance cars were severely hit. By 1973, most of these colossus were extinct. In 1973, production of the Challenger was discontinued.
© Adrián Blanco 2006 — Prohibited the total or partial reproduction of text and/or images without explicit written consent of the author. —