A true legend ahead of its time, the Dodge Challenger known for conquering street races and vanishing into the darkness has surfaced once again.
Mecum Auctions has recently unveiled its plan to sell a renowned relic from the muscle car folklore. Behold the 1970 Dodge Hemi Challenger R/T SE, whose street racing adventures in Detroit during the ’70s earned it the famous moniker – The Black Ghost.
Although the car’s previous ownership had remained shrouded in mystery for a long time, the world recently discovered that it belonged to none other than Godfrey Quails. Quails, who served as a police officer in Detroit by day, also served in the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division, earning a Purple Heart for his commendable service.
Upon returning from his military duty, Quails custom-ordered this vehicle from Raynal Brothers Dodge, located in Detroit, and took possession of it on December 5, 1969. Adorned in black with a white tail stripe and a distinctive “Gator Grain” roof treatment, this Challenger’s appearance would soon become the stuff of legends.
As a law enforcement officer, Quails had to be discreet about his involvement in street racing. Despite the risks, he couldn’t resist participating in the local racing scene, which added to the air of intrigue surrounding him.
Quails’ black Challenger would stealthily arrive on Woodward Avenue, win races with a thunderous roar, and swiftly vanish into the night. It would then lay low for weeks or even months, heightening its enigmatic aura.
The car’s vanishing act earned it the nickname “Black Ghost,” and it continued its racing career until 1975. Even after Quails retired from street racing, he remained humble about his exploits. If not for his son Gregory, the legend of the Black Ghost might have faded into obscurity.
Gregory first heard the tale from family members, but it was in 2014 when his father uncovered the legendary Dodge by unveiling the car cover in the garage. Unfortunately, Quails’ life was tragically cut short by cancer a year later. However, before his departure, he officially transferred ownership of the car to Gregory.
Such is the renown of this vehicle that Dodge itself has paid tribute to it with a special edition called the “Last Call” version of the 2023 Challenger. This modern incarnation, based on the SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody trim, boasts an impressive power output of 807 hp (602 kW/818 PS).
While the contemporary model is undeniably tempting, collectors now have a chance to acquire the genuine article. The original Black Ghost will be up for sale this spring at Mecum’s Indy Auction, scheduled to take place from May 12-20.