1971 Dodge Charger Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Based on a Coronet design originally, the Dodge Charger would adopt a cousin in 1971, when the Super Bee was made part of the Charger line...
Based on a Coronet design originally, the Dodge Charger would adopt a cousin in 1971, when the Super Bee was made part of the Charger line for one year only. Dodge decided to combine its Coronet and Charger lines, selling two-door coupes as Chargers and four-doors as Coronets.
The trim models for the 1971 Dodge Charger included the base (225 slant six, 145 bhp), the 500 (318 standard, 383 optional), the R/T (440 Magnum standard, 440-Six Pack and 426 Hemi optional), and the short-lived Super Bee Charger (383, 275 bhp standard). Both the 500 and R/T models still came with an SE optional package.
The 1971 Dodge Charger was three inches shorter, but two inches wider. It had a redesigned split grille, each half of which was surrounded by chrome. The exterior was given a semi-fastback roof and a more rounded Coke-bottle styling, which made the car seem longer than in previous years. Other additions included ventless side windows and hidden wipers. Headlights could be either concealed or exposed. R/T models featured a blackout hood, vertical striping on the doors made to look like air vents, and optional front and rear spoilers. Hemi models came standard with a hood scoop that could be activated by a dashboard control. The scoop was optional for other models. The Super Bee was similar in look to the R/T Charger, without the vertical "air vent" striping or standard bucket seats (these were optional).
Great handling and dependability were characteristics of the Charger, even if its look and power were the main selling points. Despite its speed demon image, though, 1971 would mark the last year for the high performance Charger models. The 440 Six-Pack and Magnum each lost five-horsepower this year, and by 1972, rising gas prices, insurance costs, and stricter emission standards would be the death knell for both the 440 Six-Pack and the 426 Hemi.
What owners say
"Owners of the 1971 Dodge Charger are passionate about its raw power, distinctive style, and solid build quality. Many drivers appreciate the unique sound of the engine and the thrilling acceleration, especially when pushing it to higher speeds. However, some mention concerns about fuel economy and the demands of maintenance typical for a classic muscle car."
Performance- With the relatively small 383 and the huge rear tires it has good acceleration from a stop, but really comes to life from 55 mph to 100+ mph Build Quality- Mechanically the car is built with great quality, I've never been left stranded or had to put anything but typical wear parts into it (Brakes, shocks, Etc) Appearance- The 71 is one of my favorite styles, it has broad shoulders, and beefy looks. the mileage isn't bad if you keep your foot out of the 4 barrels, and it is a fun car to drive, it gets looks everywhere you go, and they are finally starting to offer replacement panels for the restoration of them.
January 20, 2011Love the sound and pull of the numbers matching 440sixpack while rowing through the gears with the pistol grip Hurst shifter....Hemi Orange with Black....ONE of 80 built.....restored by ME! Multiple magazine feature and Calendar car (w/cover) Show and Go at it's Best. Owned since July 1986
July 30, 2008Long front end but classic mopar. Raw and in your face power combined with sweet 70's mopar style. From a time when we didn't worry about the fuel prices.. this was before the crisis hit. I remember this car with a lot of fondness.
November 9, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP N/A | Seating N/A |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP N/A | Seating N/A |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
