Used Dodge Challenger for Sale

The Dodge Challenger is a classic American muscle car. Known primarily for its power and sporty aesthetic, the Challenger's first and third generations capture the quintessential essence of the vehicle, while the second generation presented the most drastic shifts in design and performance.

2008 - Present (Third Generation)

Dodge released a limited edition run of approximately 6,000 new Dodge Challenger models in 2008 -- the first relaunch of the vehicle since 1983, and for many enthusiasts, a return to form. In 2009, the vehicle entered full production. This third-generation Challenger maintained the first generation's iconic size, powerful engine and comfortable interior, while also offering modern innovations. The 2008 Challenger was powered by a 6.1-liter HEMI V8 engine with an automatic transmission. The full-production 2009 model introduced the option of a 250-horsepower 3.5-liter V6, a 370-horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI V8, or a 425-horsepower 6.1-liter HEMI V8 engine. In 2011, Dodge introduced a more powerful Pentastar V6 base engine, upgrading the 3.5-liter unit to 3.6-liters and the 250-horsepower to 305 horsepower. The 2011 model also offered upgrades to the suspension, brakes and steering, delivering a vehicle that handled better than earlier third-generation Challengers.

In 2013, Dodge presented some new aesthetic options, a GPS stolen-vehicle recovery system and performance-oriented suspension and brakes. It wasn't until 2015 that some major changes were made. The 2015 model moved from the previous 5-speed automatic transmission to an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission. The 2015 model also offered the SRT Hellcat trim, as well as a staggeringly powerful 707-horsepower 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine.

In 2017, Dodge introduced a GT model with all-wheel drive. In 2018, Dodge made some minor changes, including suspension and brake upgrade options and a 19-inch wheel option. The 2018 model now features a backup camera as a standard feature and some models include a Uconnect touchscreen. Other available technology upgrades for third-generation Challengers include digital cluster displays, live weather updates, electronic shifters, hands-free phone calls, WiFi and various audio upgrades.

1978 - 1983 (Second Generation)

For many fans of the original first generation Challenger, the second generation introduced in late 1977 and made available in 1978 was a disappointment. The vehicle was essentially an imported and re-branded Mitsubishi Galant Lambda. It disregarded the design and style that made the earlier Challenger so well-loved among muscle car enthusiasts, instead opting for a boxier frame, square headlights and an overall less-sporty aesthetic than its predecessors. The Plymouth Sapporo was the same car, albeit the more minimal, classier version. The Dodge Challenger, meanwhile, emphasized a louder, sportier aesthetic with tape stripes and brighter color options, although it still fell short of the first generation's in-your-face design. The second generation Challengers remained the same until 1981 when they were updated with minor stylistic changes, including a new headlight style.

The second generation's inline 4-cylinder engines were weaker than the first generation's powerful 6 and 8-cylinder offerings, further alienating fans who loved the car for its raw power. The design did retain its frameless hardtop design, but performance-wise, it was a far cry from the original. Nonetheless, the second generation Challenger was recognized as a relatively strong performer in its class, due largely in part to the availability of a 105 horsepower, 2.6-liter HEMI four-cylinder engine. This was preferred by those who craved something more powerful than the base 77-horsepower engine. In the past, four-cylinder engines of that size vibrated too much to be a viable option, but the second generation Challenger was one of the first vehicles to utilize balance shaft technology to keep vibrations at bay.

1970 - 1974 (First Generation)

The first-generation Dodge Challenger was introduced in late 1969 and made available to the public in 1970. It was released alongside the Plymouth Barracuda, a car that was similar but slightly smaller. The Challenger was released to compete with other pony cars such as the Pontiac Firebird and Mercury Cougar, as well as the Ford Mustang that had been released in 1964.

The first-generation Challenger was available as a two-door convertible or hardtop, with exciting style upgrades such as bright colors, rear deck wings and various hood designs. Challenger enthusiasts had an incredible array of engine options, with nine different powertrain choices that ranged from the base 145-horsepower I-6 engine to an extremely powerful 425-horsepower HEMI V8. Buyers could also choose between 3-speed or 4-speed manual transmission or Chrysler's TorqueFlite automatic transmission.

In 1971, Dodge introduced some subtle cosmetic changes, including a new grille and dual tail lights. The powertrain options were adjusted slightly to meet new EPA emission requirements, detuning one engine and dropping two others altogether. In 1972, Dodge decided to streamline the engine options down to three; they made 110 horsepower, 150 horsepower, and 240 horsepower. The 1972 model was only available in hardtop, and it also featured a more rounded grille with an open face. The 1973 further reduced engine options, eliminating the 6-cylinder option and leaving only the choice of 150-horsepower or 240-horsepower V8 engines. In order to keep up with changing safety regulations, Dodge in 1974 added lap and shoulder belts with inertia reels and a mechanism to stop the car from starting if the driver wasn't buckled in.