The Dodge Challenger is the name of three different generations of automobiles marketed by the Dodge division of Chrysler.  The Dodge Silver Challenger was produced in 1959.  From 1970 to 1974, the first-generation Dodge Challenger pony car was built using the Chrysler E platform, sharing major components with the Plymouth Barracuda.  The second generation, from 1978 to 1983, was a badge engineered Mitsubishi Galant Lambda.  The third, and current, generation was introduced in 2008 as a rival to the evolved fifth-generation Ford Mustang and the reintroduced fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro.

Four hardtop models were offered: Challenger Six, Challenger V8, Challenger T/A (1970 only), and Challenger R/T with a convertible version available only in 1970 and 1971.  Although there were no factory-built convertibles for 1971, the R/T continued as a model with the hardtop body-style.

The performance model was the Challenger R/T (Road/Track), with a 383 CID Magnum V8, rated at 335 bhp (249.8 kW); 300 bhp (223.7 kW) for 1971, due to a drop in compression.  Optional R/T engines were the 375 bhp (279.6 kW) 440 cu in (7.2 L) Magnum, the 390 bhp (290.8 kW) 440 CID Six-Pack, and the 425 bhp (316.9 kW) 426 cu in (7.0 L) Hemi.  The R/T came with a Rallye instrument cluster that included a 150 mph (240 km/h) speedometer, an 8,000 rpm tachometer, and an oil pressure gauge.  The standard transmission was a 3-speed manual, with a 4-speed manual available on all engines.

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