It seems like when Chrysler's Dodge division brought the badges "Charger", "Challenger" and "R/T" back in the 2000's, they were trying to bring us a modern retro version of the original classics. How does the current Challenger or Charger model version with the highest HP ratings perform alongside the 1968-1970 R/T originals? Do current Dodge Chargers/Challengers still have visibility problems with the windshield from the driver seat? It seems as if when these cars were reintroduced thsi century, there were complaints that top edge of the windshield was too low to see a traffic light at an intersection. What are the pros/cons of current Chargers/Challengers vs the originals?

 

In my opinion and a previous owner of 2 68 Chargers, 383 and 440. The new, is far better engineered with exceptional performance and reliability. Yes my 2010 Challenger SRT the windshield is a bit small, and visibility was a factor. But.....If I had an opportunity to buy a new 1968 Challenger or Charger over modern, I would take the old. Maybe because I lived through the days of old and appreciate the smells, sounds and driving of one.

 

Just depends on what you like…
different stroke for different folks..
I like them both..

 

Fifty years between the two generations so to compare toe to toe isn’t realistic. It’s all preference.

 

I was thinking in terms of standing quarter mile times: old vs new. That has always been the classic muscle car yardstick for performance.
I can imagine the new being with more creature comforts like standard air conditioning. I can also imagine the new doesn't suck up gas quite
as badly as the originals did. Then again, whosoever bought a muscle car (or muscle-car-looking car) to be cheap on gas?


That said, if I were really rich, I might find me a 1970 Challenger convertible and customize her with aftermarket a/c if necessary and
aftermarket paint like Plum Crazy if that was not the original color. I would need a nice vintage-looking stereo to stream music from
phone as well. Prefer a Torqueflite transmission over any 4-speed clutch. Would be some correct V-8 engine, not necessarily the hottest offering,
and the Challenger would not necessarily be an R/T version. The old Challenger will probably be bigger and roomier inside and more comfortable for long-haul cruising.
I don't think windshield visibility was an issue in 1970. I just like the sleek look of the old Challenger body over an old Coronet or Charger.

Here is a nice 1970 drop-top Dodge Challenger in Plum Crazy. Factory a/c, R/T version, 440/375, 727 AT, power top, black interior, AM radio/8-track.
I know some Plum Crazy Mopar cars had the flashy white interior but black is no deal-breaker.

 

Answering the topic question, I would say the answer is yes.... But i think it has been classified as Modern Muscle ?

 

I have one of each. A 2016 Hemi Charger with 375HP and a '67 Monaco 500 with a 383/4V. They are both great cars in their own way. Visibility through the windshield on the new car is fine and with the modern tech I could never go back to an old Mopar as my only ride. But when I drive the '67 there is always a smile on my face.