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One Upgrade, No Limits: How Would You Transform Your Cuda/Challenger?

Started by E8, January 07, 2026, 09:31:32 AM

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How Would You Transform Your Cuda/Challenger?

Upgrade the engine, suspension, and brakes for modern performance while keeping the classic look.
Keep the original powertrain but modernize interior and exterior touches

E8

Quote from: Xghobo on January 18, 2026, 06:57:18 PMI feel if it's not a numbers car do what ever you like and can afford now days. I just finished my Cuda and went 6.1 stroked to 426 with a 5 speed and alterkation front and 4 link rear with 4 wheel disc's. I also have a 69 440 charger for the past 35 years that gives me the old school hot rod feel. I can tell you I really do think the best of both worlds is an original looking Mopar with modern upgrades under the skin. Here is a pic of what me and a few friends built in my backyard.


Couldn't agree more — once it's not a numbers car, it really comes down to building what you want and can enjoy. A 6.1 stroked to 426 with a 5-speed is a serious setup, and pairing that with an AlterKtion front and 4-link rear sounds like a blast to drive.

1973Cuda

On my '71 RT 383 I upgraded drive train, suspension, and brakes along with headlights, steering box and a few other things but left the exterior basically stock looking (I did update wheels to 17" Rallyes).

E8

Quote from: 1973Cuda on January 23, 2026, 12:48:00 PMOn my '71 RT 383 I upgraded drive train, suspension, and brakes along with headlights, steering box and a few other things but left the exterior basically stock looking (I did update wheels to 17" Rallyes).
That's a perfect balance. Updating the drivetrain, suspension, brakes, and steering while keeping the exterior mostly stock is exactly how a lot of these cars shine. The 17" Rallyes are a great touch too, modern performance without losing the classic look. Got any photos of the car? I'd love to see how it all came together.


1973Cuda

Here's my '71 RT and its sibling '15 RT.

Brads70


Katfish

I always wonder why they didn't put the fuel door on the driver's side on the originals.


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