Its name recalls the Challenger of old, the 1970s muscle car that tore up the road and raises goosebumps in men who wax nostalgic about their good old days in high school. The latest generation of Dodge Challenger is more compact car than performance demon, but it was popular and dependable in its day.

The only change in the 1980 Challenger was that the 2.6-liter, 105-horsepower engine was now standard, replacing the weaker 2.0-liter, 77-horsepower model that really only appealed to those on a tight budget. Anyone looking for some acceleration and driveability opted for the 2.6-liter.

Available in both standard 5-speed manual or optional 3-speed automatic, the 2-door hardtop coupte was known for its good gas mileage, quiet ride, and comfortable interior options.