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1969 Dodge Charger

By Daniel Legal

The 1969 Dodge Charger is another model of performance car based off of the "B" platform created by the Chrysler Corporation. Another muscle car to utilize this frame is the Challenger, also produced by Dodge. The Charger was created to compete with other cars like the Pontiac GTO, Buick Gran Sport and the Oldsmobile 442. Although the company previously had models that were as powerful as the other muscle cars, it didn't have a body style or image worthy of competing until it produced the Charger. The vehicle would quickly gain popularity, and each subsequent year was made more powerful.

The '69 Charger was just about entirely overhauled as the company wanted a new image for the car. One of the main purposes was to separate the appearance of this particular vehicle from that of the sibling Coronet. The new design was considered the "double diamond" or coke bottle styling. This names derives from the side profile which is rounded around to meet the front fenders and rear body panels in a way that resembles a coke bottle. The rear was enhance in appearance with what appears to be a kick up towards the mock spoiler. Similar to previous models the headlights were buried a few inches into the grille, making them virtually invisible during the daytime.

The 1969 Dodge Charger was offered with a great assortment of engines and transmissions. Beyond the base trim levels were the, R/T (road / track), Special Edition, Charger 500 and Charger Daytona. Both the 500 and Daytona models were created so that the company would have cars capable of competing in NASCAR competitions. The two packages were not created for the average customer. Another famous adaptation of the Charger is the "General Lee" which gained notoriety in different movies.

Both Special Edition and Charger R/T models came with more interior accessories and accents than any previous model year, which makes these cars highly desirable to collectors. Interior features include leather bucket seats for both the driver and front passenger, specially designed wood grain steering wheels, and wooden accents on the front dash panel. Other unique features to these high end models include deep set wheel covers, brightly trimmed pedals, delayed ignition lighting and special turn signal indicators.

The Charger 500 and Daytona's body styling was adapted for better performance. Both vehicle's rear windows were slanted at a more drastic slope so that they set flush with the rear of the body. Their grilles were made flush instead of inset, to allow for easier airflow and speed. There is such a great selection of body styles and equipment available to satisfy any collector's taste.

Standard on all models was a V-8 (318 cubic inch) engine capable of producing upwards of 230 horsepower. Optional engines for '69 include the 4 barrel 383 and a 2 barrel 361. Perhaps one of the most important factors to take notice of is the introduction of the infamous Hemi engine for this model year as well. Standard on all cars was a 3 speed manual transmission. Optional equipment included either a 4 speed manual or the Torqueflite 4 speed automatic.

The 1969 Dodge Charger was created as an answer to other muscle cars and quickly became popular. Car enthusiasts and collectors normally can find one of these vehicles at a great price in most parts of the country.

Dan Legal is a member of the web team that runs the website LemonFree.com Car Classifieds. LemonFree is a car search engine which currently has over 2 million new and used cars for sale. If your interested in purchasing a 1969 Dodge Charger; trust LemonFree to help you find your next car today!

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