The Iconic Dodge Charger’s Evolution
Introduced in 1966 as a premium-oriented fastback, the Dodge Charger quickly evolved into a fully-blown muscle car by the end of the decade. With its sleek design and powerful performance, it became one of the most iconic rigs of the golden era. The Charger R/T and Daytona variants, along with the availability of the impressive 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) V8 engine, solidified its status as a high-performance legend.
A Controversial Idea: The Convertible Charger
While the Charger line boasted an impressive array of options, some enthusiasts believed that a convertible version was unnecessary. After all, the Dodge Coronet, upon which the Charger was based, already offered a drop-top variant. However, one man named Ron Ridgeway disagreed and decided to bring his vision to life—a “one-of-none” Charger R/T Convertible.
The Uniqueness of Ron’s Creation
Ron meticulously recreated his high-school car, making it an exact replica with the exception of the folding soft top. The Burnt Orange muscle car stands as a testament to his craftsmanship, appearing as though it rolled off the factory line. Though the windshield may be slightly taller than typical drop-tops, its uniqueness adds to its overall appeal. Surprisingly, this stunning vehicle isn’t a modified 1970 Charger; Ron’s ingenuity shines through.
The Intricate Transformation
Rather than attempting to modify a Charger, Ron embarked on a more practical route. He utilized a 1968 Coronet Convertible as the base for his project, collecting various parts from a 1970 Charger and skillfully transplanting them onto the frame. The result? A jaw-dropping Charger Convertible that defies expectations. Ron’s attention to detail and execution elevate this build to an impressive level.
Unleashing the Power: What Lies Under the Hood
Curious about the heart of this remarkable Charger? While it may not rely on the rare and mighty 426 HEMI engine, it packs a punch with the next best thing from the golden era of Mopars. The 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) RB V8 resides under the hood, ensuring this convertible is no slouch. Though we don’t have specific details regarding the carburetor version, the four-barrel configuration boasted an impressive 375 horsepower and 480 pound-feet (651 Nm) of torque.
Taking Center Stage: From Garage to Show
Ron Ridgeway isn’t content with his unique Charger sitting idle in a garage. This incredible build has graced several prestigious events in recent years, capturing the attention of automotive enthusiasts everywhere. Notably, the Charger made appearances at the Mopar Nationals and, more recently, took on a 600-mile (966-km) drive from Ron’s hometown to MoParty 2022. The admiration and acclaim it received justified the journey and reaffirmed the Charger’s status as a true automotive masterpiece.
The Question Persists: Should Dodge Have Built It?
Now that you’ve witnessed one of the rare 1970 Charger Convertibles, the question lingers: Should Dodge have officially produced a drop-top version? The comments section awaits your opinion. And while you ponder this, don’t forget to check out the incredible 1970 Plymouth Superbird soft top conversion—an equally captivating rarity in the automotive world.
Conclusion
The 1970 Dodge Charger Convertible is an exceptional and controversial creation that defies expectations. Ron Ridgeway’s ingenuity and craftsmanship brought this one-of-a-kind muscle car to life. With meticulous attention to detail and a thoughtful transformation process, Ron created a vehicle that stands out in a crowd of automotive legends. Powered by a formidable 440-cubic-inch RB V8, this Charger Convertible doesn’t shy away from the road, showcasing its capabilities at various events. The debate of whether Dodge should have produced an official drop-top version remains open, inviting enthusiasts to share their thoughts and admiration for this extraordinary vehicle.
FAQs
1. How many 1970 Dodge Charger Convertibles exist today? As a unique creation, there are only a handful of 1970 Dodge Charger Convertibles in existence today. Ron Ridgeway’s build stands as one of the most notable and meticulously crafted examples.
2. What engine powers the 1970 Charger Convertible? The 1970 Charger Convertible utilizes a 440-cubic-inch (7.2-liter) RB V8 engine. While specific details regarding the carburetor version are unknown, the four-barrel variant boasted impressive performance figures.
3. Did Ron Ridgeway use an actual 1970 Charger to create the convertible? No, Ron chose a different approach for his creation. He utilized a 1968 Coronet Convertible as the base and integrated various components from a 1970 Charger to achieve the desired result.
4. Has the Charger Convertible gained recognition at automotive events? Absolutely! Ron Ridgeway has proudly showcased his Charger Convertible at several prestigious automotive events, including the Mopar Nationals and MoParty 2022. The vehicle has garnered significant attention and admiration from enthusiasts.
5. Are there other unique convertible conversions in the automotive world? Yes, there are other noteworthy convertible conversions in the automotive world. Among them is the impressive 1970 Plymouth Superbird soft top conversion, which offers an equally captivating rarity and stunning design.