1973 Dodge Challenger Opinions

[Inmemoryof...]

I have a 1973 Challenger that's been sitting for 38yrs never started never moved. It's all original numbers matching with a 340 auto. I would like opinions on whether I should restore it to original condition or was tinkering with the idea of a new hemi?  Either way the body would be restored keeping in mind I'm a experienced body man who does this for a living.

[Inmemoryof...]

Forgot the pics as you may have seen.

[anlauto]

Being a 340 car, it's rare, but being your Father's car I can assume you'll never sell it...so I say New Hemi

[RUNCHARGER]

I like them in stock configuration. If I want a new Hemi I drive my pickup truck. Your father drove it with the smallblock.

[dave73]

Build the 340 with efi. Then you won't have an extra engine laying around you won't part with because it's numbers matching. I'm tripping over my 318 now.

[anlauto]

Build the 340 with efi. Then you won't have an extra engine laying around you won't part with because it's numbers matching. I'm tripping over my 318 now.

I actually really like this idea too....plenty of new EFI set-ups that will make your 340 run like a modern car ! Great idea Dave

[Rich G.]

If it was a junker I might go a little modern but being it numbers matching 340 and you've had it this long I'd leave it original. But it's yours so do whatever you want, but I wouldn't get rid of anything if you decide to go modern. But I do need some parts if you're sell them!

[cuda hunter]

Has the car had a repaint? My opinion would depend upon what the fender tag readout is. 
Which will come down to your opinion in the end.  If you like the color or color combo. 
I had a 72 Gy9 that grew on me.  It had the B6y3 interior and I liked that color combo. But with a black top not so much.
 
Is the engine the actual matching numbers engine?
If not I'd agree with a modern hemi. 
If it's numbers I'd say go with the numbers motor. 

If it has sat for 38 years there is still a great chance at finding a build sheet somewhere in the car! 

[HP2]

Build the 340 with efi. Then you won't have an extra engine laying around you won't part with because it's numbers matching. I'm tripping over my 318 now.

I actually really like this idea too....plenty of new EFI set-ups that will make your 340 run like a modern car ! Great idea Dave

Ditto

[ragtopdodge]

340 all the way.

Nothing special about the modern, 1 million hemi engines out there anyways.

Find a 518 OD transmission, EFI, 3.91 gears and sure-grip, and you'll have a lot of fun.

[7212Mopar]

A 392 crate HEMI is only $8500 but then plus the wiring harness and a bunch of other components like alternator, power steering etc and cost goes up fast.  A number matching drive train is worth some money and the old engine looks better than the new in these cars. If it is a 318 car I will think about a new HEMI swap. Matching 340 I will keep as is or put a 4" crank to make a 416 for more power in naturally aspirated form and EFI it. That is what I have done on my 73 except my block is non matching.

[RUNCHARGER]

If it was a 318 flat hood car missing everything I could see doing whatever to it. However if it is a complete, original 340 car I would lean toward keeping the 340 etc.

[73_Cuda_4_Me]

Awesome legacy for you! Got any pictures of the fender tag? Depending on the rear end gearing, the 340 will be more than adequate for you!

[70 Challenger Lover]

I would go 340 too but make a couple smart upgrades like EFI, frame stiffeners, a few suspension and brake upgrades. Having a spare motor taking up room sucks.

[JS29]

I would keep the 340 were it belongs! wish I could find the original 383 for my barracuda.