You’re probably familiar with the ’69 Charger, but this one’s a whole different beast. Meet 1969 Dodge Charger with crazy V10 from Viper, a custom creation that cost a pretty penny to build over a decade ago and is now searching for its next lucky owner.
In the realm of pro-touring muscle cars, there’s no strict rulebook—traditionalists might argue otherwise. Take, for instance, the controversy surrounding Joe Rogan’s 1970 Cuda “Sick Fish,” now boasting a 750 hp Mercury Racing N/A V8 for 2023. Some purists argue that swapping out the LS-based engine takes the build out of the Mopar realm. So, where does this classic Charger fit in?
Picture this: a 2005 Dodge Viper 8.3L V10 engine, complete with the Gen III supercar’s Tremec T56 six-speed manual transmission, rear axle (with LSD), and braking system, nestled snugly within the vintage Dodge chassis. It wasn’t a straightforward task; it required some serious engineering finesse.
Just how serious? Well, the records for this restomod project, handled by Xtreme Innovations & Fabrication based in Wisconsin, reveal a jaw-dropping investment of over $300,000. Keep in mind, this was back in 2011 when the four-year endeavor was completed. Adjusted for inflation, that’s over $415,000 in today’s money.
A significant chunk of that investment went into crafting a robust 2×3″ steel frame chassis. Since the Charger was originally a unibody car, the new chassis necessitated adjustments to the floor and transmission tunnel. And we haven’t even touched on the most contentious aspect yet.
But if you’re after something even more outlandish, perhaps an off-road Viper build engineered by a former Tesla engineer might pique your interest.
Dodge Viper swap saw the firewall being pushed back 2 inches
If you’ve noticed a subtle tweak in the dash-to-axle ratio of the Viper-powered 1969 Dodge Charger, it’s because the front axle underwent a 2-inch forward relocation. This long wheelbase beauty hides a bespoke K-member, complemented by Viper control arms and power steering. Some might even dub it an “extended wheelbase” Charger.
The robust V10 powerplant demanded a 2-inch firewall adjustment for a snug fit, while the inner sides of the front fenders and core supports received custom fabrication.
AFCO two-way adjustable coilovers lurk behind forged SRT wheels – 18-inchers upfront and 19-inchers at the rear.
Externally, the car sports tucked and shaved bumpers, coupled with electric hideaway headlights, all finished in a sleek black hue with striking red tail stripes. However, the Bring a Trailer seller, who has owned the car since 2012, points out minor paint imperfections on the rear pillars near the rear window. Interestingly, during the “resto” phase of the build, the hood, roof, and quarter panel skins were replaced. Now, you can enjoy driving without fretting over mileage-induced paint wear.
Inside, the black leather and tweed upholstery create a nostalgic ambiance, reminiscent of a time when cars were larger. This might explain why Dodge Neon front seats seamlessly blend into the Charger’s cabin.
The custom dash and Billet Specialties steering wheel speak to the era of muscle car restoration, while Viper-inspired shifter and pedals, along with push-button ignition and Vintage Air climate control, bring modernity to the mix. Entertainment-wise, there’s a Kenwood infotainment system and a beefy MTX 10-inch subwoofer, accompanied by four hefty speakers.
Expect the Viper-powered V10 restomod 1969 Dodge Charger to fetch over $300,000
The digital odometer registers 4,400 miles, with the seller accounting for 3,200 of those miles. While the total mileage remains a mystery, it’s inconsequential at this point.
The trunk holds its own narrative. Positioned between the Viper-logo bulkhead and the rear seat is a 17-gallon fuel cell, alongside an Optima battery.
Originally, the third-generation Viper’s 8.3L V10 engine churns out 500 hp and 525 lb-ft. However, this engine underwent enhancements, including Oliver Racing Parts billet connecting rods, CP-Carrillo pistons, a reworked crankshaft, among others.
At the time of this writing, the Bring a Trailer auction for the Viper-powered V10 restomod 1969 Dodge Charger was still active, with 7 days remaining. Therefore, the $69,000 leading bid is subject to change.
How does one assess such a unique vehicle? A reference point comes from a June auction where a ’69 Charger-bodied 2001 Dodge Viper GTS, featuring a similar color scheme and identical chrome wheels, fetched $250,000. Additionally, as depicted in the accompanying video, the classic Mopar’s V10 soundtrack is truly captivating.