What's It Worth? 1972 Dodge Charger SE Custom 400 Magnum ..A 26 Year Love Story
First introduced in model year 1966 the Dodge Charger was Chrysler's answer to GM's and Ford's midsize performance offerings. Only available in a two door hardtop it was slated to go head to head with such Icon's as the GTO, 442, SS Chevelle and Torino.
Even its name made it sound like you were going fast "Charger!!" The First Gen Chargers (1966-1967) were only offered with V8's. Engines ranging from a 318 V8 with a two barrel carburetor up to a 440 V8 (1967 only) or a Tire Burning 426 Hemi. Transmissions ranged from two manuals. A column mounted 3 speed or a Rock Crushing console mounted 4 speed. The only Automatic was the Workhorse Torque-Flight. As good as these First Gen Chargers were they never sold as well the competition. Only 15,788 Charger found new owners in 1967.
The Second Gen Charger was introduced for model year 1968. It's styling was considered by many as much more attractive than the first Gen Charger. A debate for another time. It's Coke Bottle look was both Handsome and Tough. Hidden headlights were standard as well as the 226 Slant Six Engine (Mid-Year 1968). Just not sure why you would desire a six cylinder Charger. Once again a debate for another time.
In trying to Keep up with the Jones's or GM, Ford and now AMC Dodge offered engines ranging from Mild to Wild. V8's ranged from 318's to 426 Hemi's, 440 Six Packs with a brain numbing amount choices with carbs, transmissions and rear ends. The Second Gen Charger was a Media and Sales Success. Ranging from model years 1968-1970.
The Third Gen Dodge Charger was introduced for model year 1971. Much improved over the prior Gen Charger it had many comfort and safety upgrades. It's styling was Crisp and Smooth. Dubbed the Fuselage Body it was applauded by Car Mags of the Day. As before engines ranged from a tepid but reliable 226 Slant Six to a Speeding Ticket Obtaining 440 Six Pack or 426 Hemi. 1971 would be the last year for these two engines.
By 1972 due to tougher emissions and safety laws some of the luster of the Muscle Car Era started to fade. Even the much loved 440 V8 only put out a wimpy 280 horsepower. 1972 also was the first year for the 400 Magnum and the luxury SE option that featured plusher interiors and hidden headlights.
Even with the Evil of Emissions laws of the day the Third Gen Charger's were by far the most popular in sales and are highly sought after today. The last 3rd Gen Charger rolled off the assembly line in 1974. The poor Ole Charger became a victim of OPEC fuel crisis and its own girth.
Our feature 1972 Dodge Charger SE was a feature car in Building T at the 2016 Carlisle Chrysler Nationals. It is considered a mild custom and the work despite being over 20 years old is amazing. Such custom touches include a Cordoba Sunroof and a 400 Magnum V8 with dual 4 barrel carburetors.
As we have said in the past the stories behind great old cars are sometimes better than the car. The owner of our feature Charger is a lovely woman from Pa. She had many years ago (more than 26) owned a 1972 Charger. Due to a divorce was forced to sell that car. On the eve of her second wedding her than and still groom and husband presented her as a wedding gift this beautiful 1972 Dodge Charger SE as a gift. He just finished the car only hours before. The paint still had that ummm Fresh Smell as they drove it on their Honeymoon.
Since than this Charger has led a loved and charmed life. Always pampered and enjoyed it has stood the test of time as a testament to there Love Story.
So the big question is What's It Worth? More than you think. Charger values are High and Strong. Keep in mind the work on this almost flawless car is over 20 years old but still looks almost fresh. For this Special Charger we are going to feature a Full Sample Appraisal. So Folks What's It Worth? >>>>
