1973 Dodge Challenger | |
![]() 1973 Challenger Hardtop | |
Description1973 was the fourth year of the first generation Dodge Challengers (1970 - 1974). The six cylinder engine was gone, so the 318 cubic inch two-barrel with 150 horsepower and 265 ft-lbs of torque was now standard. The 340 cid four-barrel with 240 hp and 295 ft-lbs of torque was optional. Some sources say in mid year the 340 was replaced by the 360. Other sources say the change didn't take place until 1974. The major change for 1973 was that the front and rear bumpers were moved out from the body to meet the new crash standards. The bumper guards were also enlarged and now had large rubber pads. Together, these changes added 6.9 inches to the length of the car. Both front and rear bumpers now also had small vertical slots for the new bumper jack. The Rallye was now an option package instead of its own model. It still had the non-functioning air extractor vents on the lower front fenders and the strobe-style side stripes. Two optional High-impact paint colors continued for 1973, Hemi Orange, and Top Banana. Total production of 1973 Challengers: 27,930 or 32,596 depending on the source. 1973 Challenger Key Differences1973 Challengers had bumpers which stuck out a few inches from the car, and much larger chrome bumper guards with large rubber pads. 1974 Challengers had the same type of bumpers and bumper guards. Some '73s have had their bumper guards removed, and some have had their bumpers moved in closer to the car. If a Challenger with the extended bumpers has a 318 engine, it's difficult to tell whether it's a ‘73 or ‘74. If it has a 340 it is a 1973 Challenger, and if it has a 360 it should be a 1974 model. Similar YearsAll first generation Dodge Challengers (1970 - 1974) used the same body. There were minor year to year changes to the grill, bumper, and tail lights, however the 1973-74 Challengers have no differences other than the optional 360 engine which was only available for 1974. | |
How to Identify a 1973 Dodge Challenger![]() |
Overview
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Grill
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Front Bumper
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Front Bumper Guard
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Rear Bumper
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Bumper Slots
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Fender Vents
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Strobe Stripes
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Front Side Marker Light
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Rear Side Marker Light
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Nameplate
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Tail Lights
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Dash
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Standard Dash
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Shift Lever
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Gas Cap
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Hood
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger 340 Four Barrel Badge
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger 340 Engine
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Rear Panel
|
![]() |
1973 Challenger Magnum 500 Wheel
|
More 1973 Challenger PicturesFor more photos of vintage 1973 Challengers, visit the Dodge Challenger Gallery at the Muscle Car Jungle. If you have any comments, or would like to report any errors or omissions, contact us at feedback@oldcarsguide.com | |