In the American auto industry, there are multiple stories of rebirth, and Dodge is no exception. Three classic Dodge vehicles, the Challenger, Charger and Magnum, have been reborn to a new generation of car enthusiasts. For the most part, Dodge has done well with bringing these cars back to life.
Charger
The Charger was first born in 1966 as a Dodge complement to the Plymouth Barracuda. It remained a muscle car mainstay until 1978. From 1983 to 1987, the Charger was resurrected as a front-wheel drive subcompact hatchback. In 2006, the Charger reclaimed some of its lost muscle as a rear-wheel drive sports sedan. Perhaps the most famous Charger is the General Lee, the car used in The Dukes of Hazzard television series.
Challenger
The Challenger, like the Charger, has had three lives. The Challenger was first produced from 1970 to 1974 as a direct competitor to the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. From 1978 to1983 it was sold as a sporty luxury coupe and only available with an inline-4 engine. The car was reborn in 2008 with a simultaneous debut at the Chicago and Philadelphia Auto Shows. This new version is a two-door coupe that is reminiscent of the earliest, and most popular, Challenger.
Magnum
The Magnum, unlike the previous two cars, has only had two lives. It was produced in 1978 and 1989 as a two-door coupe. Its production also ensured Richard Petty an aerodynamic car for the professional auto racing circuit. The Magnum was reborn in 2005 as a large, rear-wheel drive station wagon. It enjoyed a three-year run, and was produced until 2008.
What They Share
There are a few things these cars have in common. First, and probably foremost, is the hemi engine. With the exception of the Magnum, all the cars shared hemi options in their first incarnations. In its most recent revival, the Magnum did have the hemi option.
Secondly, all three cars share a history of speed and racing. True, the Magnum was initially produced so Richard Petty could race. However, the other two cars have a longstanding reputation at the track, as well as a near cult-like status.
Lastly, these cars helped bring about a new awareness of Dodge products to consumers. To many, it felt like Dodge was going back to their roots and beginning to bring back cars many felt never should have left the lineup.
While the Magnum may no longer be in production, Dodge classic car enthusiasts of the Charger and Challenger have embraced the newer models. They can frequently be seen at auto shows - and sometimes as a special event at dealerships - with the classic and new vehicles side by side.
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