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1968–1970 Dodge Charger R/T

The second-gen Charger's coke-bottle styling and hidden headlights made it an instant icon. The Hemi Charger remains one of the most recognizable and desirable muscle cars ever produced.

1968–1970 Dodge Charger R/T — Full Specifications

  • Engine: 440ci Magnum / 426ci Hemi V8
  • Power: 375–425 bhp
  • Torque: 480–490 lb-ft
  • Transmission: A833 4-speed manual or TorqueFlite 727 3-speed automatic
  • Drivetrain: Front engine, rear-wheel drive
  • Body style: 2-door hardtop coupe
  • Wheelbase: 117 inches
  • Curb weight: 3,600–3,900 lbs (Hemi adds ~120 lbs)
  • 0–60 mph: 5.3–6.5 sec
  • Quarter mile: 13.5 sec @ 105 mph (440); 13.0 sec @ 108 mph (Hemi)
  • Original MSRP: $3,480 (1968 R/T base); $4,244 (with 426 Hemi option)
  • Current value: $65,000–$120,000 (440 R/T); $175,000–$400,000+ (Hemi)

Production Notes

The '69 Charger Daytona with its massive rear wing was built for NASCAR homologation—only 503 produced. Hemi Chargers are extremely rare—only 475 were built for 1968. The Charger became a cultural icon through the 'Dukes of Hazzard' TV show.

Notable Factory Options

  • 426 Hemi
  • R/T package
  • SE luxury package
  • Bumble Bee stripe
  • Ramcharger hood scoops
  • Dana 60 rear axle

Buying Guide

The '68-'70 Charger is one of the most desired muscle cars, and Hemi cars are blue-chip investments. For buyers, the 440 Magnum R/T offers the authentic muscle car experience at a fraction of the Hemi price. '68 is the first year of the iconic body and often the most affordable. Verify the VIN (the 5th character indicates engine: 'J' = 426 Hemi, 'L' = 440 Magnum) and look for the original broadcast sheet (often hidden behind the rear seat or above the glove box). Non-R/T 440 Chargers ('68-'70) are the entry-level option and can still be found for $30K–$50K. The Charger 500 and Daytona are extremely rare and correspondingly expensive. 'Dukes of Hazzard' fame destroyed thousands of '68-'69 Chargers, reducing supply and increasing values.

Pros

  • Arguably the best-looking muscle car ever designed
  • 440 Magnum provides enormous torque and performance
  • Strong investment potential—values have climbed steadily
  • Iconic pop culture status (Bullitt, Dukes of Hazzard)
  • Chrysler broadcast sheet system aids authentication

Cons

  • Unibody rust can be catastrophic and extremely expensive to repair
  • Hemi cars are priced beyond most collectors' reach
  • Large and heavy—challenging to maneuver in tight spaces
  • Hidden headlight mechanisms require maintenance
  • Many 'General Lee' abuse cars destroyed structural integrity

Restoration Tips

Unibody construction means rust is the #1 enemy. Check trunk floors, quarters, and inner fenders. Verify broadcast sheet for options. Hemi parts are scarce and expensive. The hidden headlight mechanism is complex and often problematic.