This was the time when stock car racing was between stock cars with true factory built engines and bodies. Fans truly could see them race on Sunday and buy one just like it on Monday. Of course the dominance of Mopars led to multiple rule changes to “slow down” the Plymouths and Dodges which led to the spec cars that effectively destroyed NASCAR. NHRA did the same with Pro Stock, now X Stock and fans know the difference and have lost interest. Oh yes, NHRA just changed the rules one week after Dodges won both Factory Stock classes. There they go again as their Chevy- Ford bias plays out once more.
As to Petty and his Charger, truly something to be admired. My son has a numbers matching, mint 1971 Dodge Changer R/T in his garage. Some things are beyond a price tag, like driving a true classic. Those were the days. Those were really the days!