If you’re a Mopar enthusiast or a collector of rare muscle cars, mark your calendar for May 16th. A stunning 1970 Dodge HEMI® Challenger R/T is set to cross the auction block at Mecum Indy 2025, and this isn’t just any Challenger—this is a factory triple-black beast with a numbers-matching 7.0-liter (426 cubic-inch) HEMI V8. Cars like this don’t come around often; when they do, they make waves in the muscle car community.
The 1970 Dodge Challenger was Dodge’s late entry into the muscle car wars, but it arrived with serious firepower. At the top of the lineup sat the legendary 426 HEMI, the powerhouse produced 425 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. Only 427 HEMI-equipped Challengers were built over two model years, and just 356 of those rolled off the line in 1970. This particular example not only sports that rare powerplant but also comes in an even rarer factory triple-black color combo: Black paint, Black vinyl roof, and a Black interior. A Red Bumblebee stripe on the rear fascia provides a subtle but striking contrast.
This Challenger’s rarity doesn’t stop at its color scheme. It also features a column-shifted Torqueflite 727 automatic transmission—an unusual choice for a HEMI car. The (A32) Super Performance Axle Package, which includes 4.10 gears and a 9 3/4-inch rear end, ensures this muscle car delivers brutal acceleration and solid performance. Additional options include power steering, power brakes with front discs, HEMI suspension, and leather bucket seats.
What makes this Challenger even more desirable is its impeccable condition. The car underwent an extensive rotisserie restoration, bringing it back to like-new specifications with just one notable upgrade: an MSD ignition system. The original, numbers-matching 426 HEMI has been fully rebuilt, complete with dual four-barrel carburetors and those iconic hemispherical cylinder heads. It even comes with a copy of the original broadcast sheet and the original owner’s manual.
Owned by the same caretaker since 1976, this Challenger has been cherished for nearly five decades. Mecum hasn’t provided a pricing estimate, but given the car’s rarity, condition, and originality, it’s expected to draw significant interest. HEMI Challengers in this state often sell for over $150,000, and this one’s unique triple-black color scheme could push it into the $200,000 range.
As a reminder of just how valuable these cars can get, the current record-holder for the most expensive 1970 HEMI Challenger is the infamous “Black Ghost,” an unrestored R/T SE that sold for $975,000 in 2023. This Challenger R/T heading to Mecum Indy may not have the same legend behind it, but its pristine restoration and rare spec make it a serious contender for one of the top sales of the event.
If you want to own a piece of muscle car history, this 1970 Dodge HEMI Challenger R/T is the one to watch.
1970 Dodge HEMI® Challenger R/T Image Gallery:
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