TDT’s Ultimate 1970 Dodge Charger R/T 426 HEMI Buying Guide

Published on February 17, 2025

1970 Dodge Charger R/T 426 HEMI Buying Guide: What to Look for During Inspection

The 1970 Dodge Charger R/T 426 HEMI is one of the most legendary muscle cars ever produced. With its powerful 426 HEMI V8, aggressive styling, and NASCAR influence, the 1970 Charger R/T HEMI remains a highly sought-after collector’s car. Whether you’re looking to invest in an original numbers-matching example or restore a project car, it’s crucial to inspect key areas to ensure authenticity, condition, and value.

This 1970 Dodge Charger R/T 426 HEMI Muscle Car Buying Guide provides a detailed breakdown of what to check during an inspection, helping you avoid costly mistakes and potential fakes.

---

1. Verify the Authenticity of the 1970 Dodge Charger R/T 426 HEMI

Due to the high value and rarity of the 1970 Dodge Charger R/T , many standard Chargers have been cloned to look like authentic HEMI cars. Before purchasing, verify these key identification points:

A. Check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)

The 1970 Dodge Charger R/T should have a VIN that starts with XS29:

• “X” – Indicates the Charger R/T package.
• “S” – Represents the Specialty model (R/T performance package).
• “29” – Indicates a two-door hardtop.

? If the VIN does not start with “XS29”, it is not an original Charger R/T!

B. Confirm the 426 HEMI Engine Code

The 1970 Dodge Charger R/T HEMI came with the legendary 426 HEMI V8, but not all R/T models had this engine. Check the 5th digit of the VIN:

• “R” = 426 HEMI V8 (original factory HEMI car).
• “U” = 440 Magnum V8 (not a HEMI).
• “V” = 440 Six-Pack V8 (not a HEMI).

? Only a VIN with an “R” in the 5th digit confirms a factory-original HEMI Charger R/T!

C. Fender Tag & Broadcast Sheet Verification

• The Fender Tag (located on the driver’s side inner fender) should include:
  • “E74” = 426 HEMI Engine Code
  • “D32” = Heavy-Duty Automatic Transmission (if equipped)
  • “D21” = 4-Speed Manual Transmission
• The Broadcast Sheet (often found under the seat or inside the rear seat) further verifies the car’s originality.

---

2. Inspect the Body for Rust & Structural Issues

The 1970 Dodge Charger R/T 426 HEMI is over 50 years old, making rust and hidden repairs a major concern. Here’s where to check:

A. Common Rust Areas on a 1970 Dodge Charger R/T

• Trunk Floor & Rear Frame Rails – Water accumulation causes rust.
• Lower Quarters & Rocker Panels – Inspect for signs of patch panels or rust repair.
• Roof (Vinyl Top Cars) – Moisture under the vinyl top can cause hidden rust.
• Firewall & Inner Fenders – Rust in these areas can weaken structural integrity.

? Use a magnet or digital paint meter to check for excessive bondo or hidden rust repairs.

B. Check for Signs of Previous Accidents

• Frame Straightness – Look for misalignment in door gaps and panel fitment.
• Underbody Welds – Uneven welds may indicate prior crash repairs.
• Bumper Alignment – Poorly aligned bumpers can suggest structural damage.

---

3. Mechanical Inspection: Engine, Transmission, and Rear Axle

A. 426 HEMI Engine Inspection

• Look for the correct block casting number: 2468330-1 (located on the passenger side of the block).
• The engine pad should have a matching partial VIN (confirming it’s original to the car).
• Check for proper carburetors – The 426 HEMI used dual Carter AFB 4-barrel carburetors.
• Listen for ticking sounds – The Hemi’s solid lifters are naturally noisy, but excessive noise may indicate wear.

B. Transmission & Drivetrain Verification

• 4-Speed Manual (A833) – Verify the Hemi-specific “Hemi Box” transmission.
• 727 Torqueflite Automatic – If equipped, ensure it has the HD torque converter.
• Dana 60 Rear Axle – HEMI Chargers came with a 3.54:1 or 4.10:1 rear gear ratio.

---

4. 1970 Dodge Charger R/T Interior Inspection

The interior of a 1970 Dodge Charger R/T plays a significant role in value. Here’s what to check:

A. Factory-Correct Interior Features

• Rallye Gauges with Tic-Toc-Tach – These should include a factory tachometer and clock.
• Woodgrain Center Console (Optional) – Manual cars should have a pistol-grip Hurst shifter.
• Door Panels & Seat Covers – Look for correct patterns and factory colors.

B. Verify the VIN Tag & Dash Pad

• The VIN should be riveted to the driver-side dash.
• Check for factory door stickers and tags for originality.

? A missing or tampered VIN tag is a red flag!

---

5. Market Value: How Much Should You Pay for a 1970 Dodge Charger R/T 426 HEMI?

The value of a 1970 Dodge Charger depends on authenticity, originality, condition, and documentation. Here’s a breakdown:

Condition	Market Value (2024)
Project Car (Non-running, needs full restoration)	$75,000 – $150,000
Driver-Quality (Some modifications, non-matching numbers)	$175,000 – $275,000
Numbers-Matching, Restored	$350,000 – $500,000
Survivor, Unrestored, Fully Documented	$600,000 – $1,000,000+
Best Auction Price (Mecum, Barrett-Jackson)	$1.32M (for rare options)

Final Buying Tips for a 1970 Dodge Charger R/T 426 HEMI

✅ Verify the VIN, fender tag, and broadcast sheet to confirm authenticity.
✅ Inspect for rust in common problem areas such as the trunk, rockers, and rear frame rails.
✅ Check engine casting numbers and transmission codes to confirm a real HEMI car.
✅ Drive the car – The 426 HEMI should rev smoothly and pull hard under acceleration.
✅ Buy from reputable sellers or auction houses (Mecum, Barrett-Jackson, Bring a Trailer).

The 1970 Dodge Charger R/T 426 HEMI is one of the most legendary Mopars ever built, making it a highly desirable investment. Whether you’re restoring one or purchasing a collector-grade example, following this inspection guide will help you secure a genuine, high-value Charger R/T HEMI.

Would you like a classic car pre-purchase inspection on a prospective 1970 Dodge Charger R/T 426 HEMI purchase?