Daydreams RestoredThe Dodge Charger circa 1968-1970 is a car that ruled my thoughts and daydreams as I stared whimsically out the classroom window during the
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| Four doors instead of two transforms the Charger into a family muscle car. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
late '60s. Come 1971 I fell out of favour with the grotesquely redesigned Charger, and have so ever since. To this day I can't figure out why Dodge suddenly blew off such a "cool" design for one that lacked proportion, symmetry and sleekness. Like a jilted lover or abandoned child, I harbour resentment over having my dream of owning a "cool" Charger extinguished.
But what's this: is Dodge trying to heal the hurt by offering a 2006 HEMI-powered Charger R/T? You bet they are, and this week it's in my hands for an all-out assessment beginning with style. Nope, I don't see a modernized 1968-70 Charger, ala Ford's retro Mustang. But I do see four doors instead of two,transforming the Charger into a family muscle car and in so doing widening its list of potential customers.
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| The Charger's twin exhaust tips, horizontal lines and sharp creases project a strong, roadworthy appearance. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Given the stunning lines of the Chrysler 300 and the Dodge Magnum, I'm sure the Charger stylists were more than a little twitchy at the thought ofmeeting or beating any benchmarks. I must admit it's taking a while for me to warm up to the outcome. Especially the Charger's side profile, which features high haunches over the rear wheels and wide C-pillars, but I am getting there. The saucy sedan's rear profile is the aspect I admire most; its twin exhaust tips, horizontal lines and sharp creases project a strong, roadworthy appearance. Styling cues aside, the Charger's body panels are impeccably put together, something you couldn't always say about Dodge products from decades previous.
