From 1969 to 1974, the first generation Dodge Challenger pony car was built using the Chrysler E platform, sharing major components with the Plymouth Barracuda. The second generation, from 1978 to 1983, was a badge engineered Mitsubishi Galant Lambda. The third, and current generation, was introduced in early 2008 as a rival to the evolved 5^th generation Ford Mustang and 5^th generation of Chevrolet Camaro.
The Challenger was described in a book about 1960s American cars as Dodge's "answer to the Mustang and Camaro. Introduced in fall 1969 for the 1970 model year. it was one of two Chrysler E-body cars, the other being the slightly smaller Plymouth Barracuda.
Exterior design was done by Carl Cameron, who also did the exterior for the 1966 Dodge Charger. Cameron based the 1970 Challenger grille off an older sketch of his 1966 Charger prototype that was to have a turbine engine. The Charger never got the turbine, but the Challenger featured that car's grille. Although the Challenger was well received by the public (with 76,935 produced for the 1970 model year), it was criticized by the press, and the pony car segment was already declining by the time the Challenger arrived. Sales fell dramatically after 1970, and though sales rose for the 1973 model year with over 27,800 cars being sold, Challenger production ceased midway through the 1974 model year. A total of 165,437 Challengers were sold over this generation's lifespan.
The Dodge Challenger Concept was unveiled at the 2006 Detroit Motor Show and was a preview for the 3rd generation Dodge Challenger that started its production in 2007. Many design cues of the Dodge Challenger Concept were adapted from the 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T.
 Specifications
Bodywork
Length: cm (in): 486 (191)
Width: cm (in): 193 (76.1)
Height: cm (in): 129 (50.9)
Wheelbase: cm (in): 279 (110)
Weight: kg (lb): 1580 (3483)
Mechanics.
Displacement: V8 6292 cc (383 cu in), front-mounted
Valve gear: 16
Fuel system: four-barrel carburetor
Gearbox: 3-speed automatic
Driven wheels: rear-wheel drive
Maximum power: 330 hp at 5000 rpm
Maximum torque: 579 Nm at 3200 rpm
Maximum speed: 209 km/h (130 mph)