Dodge Charger
There have been a number of vehicles bearing the Dodge Charger nameplate, but the name has generally denoted a performance model in the Dodge range. The 1980s? versions had a confusing array of names, and badge-engineered Plymouth and Chrysler versions were also available.
1966
The first Charger was an American muscle car introduced in 1966, inspired by the popularity of the Ford Mustang and Plymouth Barracuda fastbacks. It was originally available with engines ranging from the base-model 318 ci (5.2l) V8, 361 B engine, 383 B engine, 400 B engine, to the famous 426 Hemi.
1968
The full-size 1968?70 models, featuring a restyled "flying buttress" fastback and recessed headlights, were the most popular Chargers. The top-line Charger R/T was available with the 440 "Magnum" cubic inch (7.2 litre) V8 motor.
1971
Although the Charger continued to be produced up until 1978, it effectively ceased to be a performance car after the 1973 oil crisis and the vehicle's re-branding into the personal luxury segment, like many of its muscle car compatriots. A more luxurious version of the Charger, the Dodge Magnum, appeared for the 1978 and 1979 model years.
1979
For 1979, Chrysler brought out sporty versions of the Dodge Omni/Plymouth Horizon called the Dodge 024 and Plymouth TC3. In 1982, these nameplates were changed to Dodge Omni Charger and Plymouth Turismo, respectively. Dodge launched a Shelby version of the Dodge Charger (no more "Omni") in 1983, called the Dodge Shelby Charger. Both models were revised for 1984, and turbocharged engines appeared in 1985 on the Dodge Charger Shelby and Plymouth Turismo Duster. 1987 was the last year for the Omni/Horizon-derived Charger and Turismo.
Carroll Shelby bought 1,000 Chargers and packed them with the Omni GLH's engine and suspension to be sold as Shelby Chargers. The Plymouth Duster name continued on the new Plymouth Sundance line.
2006
For 2006, Dodge will introduce a new rear wheel drive charger based on the Chrysler LX platform. It will be a sedan, similar to the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum, and will offer Hemi power.
Notes
The Charger featured prominently in the 1968 film Bullitt, and later in TV's The Dukes of Hazzard.
