1973 Dodge Challenger Rallye

Description

The Dodge Challenger lineup was consolidated to two trim levels for 1973, with a period brochure stating there were “two ways to assert your personality.” The Rallye Package (A57) elevated the standard Challenger with a Performance Hood featuring dual faux scoops, a blacked-out grille, and simulated scoops on the front fenders, all accentuated by distinctive black strobe stripes running towards the rear doors.  

Inside, the mandated Rallye Instrument Cluster, set against a faux woodgrain insert, included a 7,000-rpm tachometer, 150 mph speedometer, electric clock, analog auxiliary engine gauges, and variable-speed windshield wipers. Under the hood, while the standard offering was a two-barrel 318 cu-in V8, those seeking more performance could opt for the potent four-barrel 340 cu-in V8. The Rallye Suspension also added heavy duty shock absorbers and a front sway bar, enhanced by the newly standardized hydraulic front disc brakes.  

At a mere $182, the Rallye Package represented exceptional value, offering a wealth of performance features and distinctive styling cues that set it apart in the muscle car landscape of the early 1970s.  

Highlights 

• Desirable upscale Challenger Rallye  

• Powered by a replacement 360 cu-in “LA” V8 

• TorqueFlite three-speed automatic transmission 

• Rare Dana 60 rear differential 

• The chassis number (JH23H3B242409) decodes as follows:  

  • J – Dodge Challenger  

  • H – Price Class, High  

  • 23 – 2 Door Hardtop  

  • H – 340 1-4BBL V8 (now 360 cu-in V8) 

  • 3 – 1973 model year 

  • B – Hamtramck, Michigan, final assembly plant  

  • 242409 – Sequential Number  

Features 

• New BFGoodrich Comp2 tires 

• New 18-inch front and 20-inch rear custom wheels 

• Black all-vinyl interior with front bucket seats 

• Power steering 

• Power front disc brakes 

• Simulated wood-grained door trim inserts  

Known Imperfections 

• Tear on the right side of the rear bench seat about 5 inches long 

• Small dent about nickel size and not deep on the left front quarter panel 

 Included 

• Keys 

• Original build sheet 

Ownership History 

The consignor acquired this 1973 Dodge Challenger Rallye from Texas in 2020.