The Dodge Charger R/T Hemi is one of the most iconic American muscle cars. Its long hood, wide grille with hidden headlights, and massive rear fenders create a silhouette that still exudes confidence even decades later. In the version with the 426 Hemi engine, this striking design is paired with one of the most famous American V8 engines.
The history of the 426 Hemi engine dates back to 1964 and is closely tied to American motorsports. Engineer Tom Hoover played a significant role in its development. Its racing heritage became an integral part of the Hemi name and contributed to its exceptional status among American car enthusiasts.
The Charger featured here has a 426-cubic-inch V8 engine—approximately 7.0 liters—paired with a four-speed manual transmission. According to the RM Sotheby’s catalog, it is one of 207 Charger R/T Hemi models equipped with a four-speed manual transmission for the 1969 model year.
The equipment includes a Dana 60 rear axle with a Sure Grip limited-slip differential and a final drive ratio of 4.10:1. This gear ratio prioritizes aggressive acceleration over low RPMs during highway driving. The configuration also includes power-assisted front disc brakes and a high-capacity radiator.
The body is finished in a dark green metallic shade called Dark Green Metallic (code F8), complemented by a black vinyl roof and a horizontal stripe across the rear. The black interior features individual front seats and a center console. The color combination gives the car a more understated look than its large-displacement engine might suggest.
The auction house lists the matching identification stamps on the engine and transmission, as well as the documentation, including the original certificate of origin. This example sold at auction for 170,500 U.S. dollars.
It is precisely the combination of the Hemi engine, the manual transmission, and the documented configuration that makes this Charger an intriguing collector’s car. It represents an era when American power was sold in the form of big engines, striking body styles, and a wide range of factory-installed options.
