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1973 Dodge Charger

The '73 Dodge Charger: a big, brawny muscle car mellowing out. Less aggressive than its predecessors, it still packed a punch and was a popular choice. Its distinctive, somewhat boxier look made it a 70s icon, featured in countless movies and TV shows, cementing its place in automotive history. A cool cruiser, even if a bit softer than its muscle car brothers.

1973 Dodge Charger V8 Series WL: A Timeless Classic

The 1973 Dodge Charger V8 Series WL is more than just a car; it's a bona fide piece of American muscle history. The '73 model marked a shift in automotive design—transitioning from the aggressive forms of the past to a more streamlined look, all while laws got tighter on emissions and safety. But did it lose its mojo? Heck no! Still packing a V8 under the hood, it held onto its performance roots, offering enthusiasts something to truly admire.

Photo of a 1973 Dodge Charger

1973 Dodge Charger Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Dodge Charger Worth?

Original MSRP :$2,817.00

Outstanding

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$30,600

Clean

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$22,900

Average

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$15,400*

Rough

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$10,900

1973 Dodge Charger Specs

Body Maker: Dodge
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: WL21
Length: 212.7 inches
Width: 77 inches
Height: 52.5 inches
Wheelbase: 115 inches
Weight: 3,460lbs
Type: Own, V8, OHV, Dual downdraft, Fully synchronized
Displacement: 317.58 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 3 29/32 & 3 5/16 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 8.6 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 150@3600
Horsepower Rated: 48.83
Torque: 265@2000
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Block Material: Cast Iron
Engine Number Location: Stamped on front of block just below left cylinder head.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Carter
Type:
4.75 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
10.5 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
3.08
Gear Ratios Second:
1.7
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
2.9
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 2.94 to 1
Front: Independent torsion bar
Rear: Semi-elliptic leaf springs
Service Type: Front disc, rear self-adjusting drum
Service Front Size: 11.75 inches
Service Rear Size: 10 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 10 inches
Tire Size: E78 x 14
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 19 Gallons
Oil: 4 Quarts
Rear Differential: 4 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:Starting WL21G3a100001
Total Digits:13
Digits 1-2:Series
Digits 3-4:Body style
Digits 5:Engine
Digits 6:Model year
Digits 7:Assembly plant
Digits 8-13:Production number
All colors may not be available in all models., Dark Silver Metallic, Light Blue, Super Blue, Bright Blue Metallic, Dark Blue Metallic, Bright Red, Pale Green, Light Green Metallic, Dark Green Metallic, Bronze Metallic, Parchment, Turquoise Metallic, Dark Tan Metallic, Hemi-Orange, Eggshell White, Black, Top Banana, Yellow, Light Gold, Gold Metallic, Dark Gold Metallic
Coupe: Opt
440 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
400 Cu. In. V8 Engine: Opt
Power Windows: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Radio: Opt

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Development and Features

In 1973, automakers were busy adapting to new federal safety standards, and the Charger was no exception. Its design shifted slightly, introducing larger bumpers and a sleek body style. Sure, it was a bit different from its predecessors, but it never lost that muscle car essence.

The engine options remained robust, with the 318 and the beefier 360 cubic inch V8 still kicking out impressive horsepower. This kept it popular among speed aficionados, holding steady against its competitors.

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Cultural Icons and Pop Culture

The Charger's presence in popular culture is, to put it mildly, legendary. Although the '73 model didn't get the spotlight, the Charger name popped up everywhere—from television to rock songs. Remember the 'General Lee' from "The Dukes of Hazzard"? That wasn't the '73, but its heritage as part of the Charger family boosted its fame.

Famous Figures and Collectors

Some big names in Hollywood and beyond have shown their love for the Charger. Joe Rogan, the podcast king, is a known car buff with a collection that leans heavily on American muscle. Chargers from various years have found their way into garages of celebrities who appreciate a bit of grunt with their glamor.

Photo of a 1973 Dodge Charger

Price Trends and Collectibility

In terms of the auction circuit, the '73 Dodge Charger has seen quite the fluctuation. Prices stretch from just under $6,000 for project cars to nearly $100,000 for pristine gems. Why such variance? Well, condition, rarity, and features all play their part.

High-profile sales, like those at Mecum and Barrett-Jackson, keep our hearts racing as bidders vie for the most coveted models, especially those equipped with the mighty 440 Magnum engine.

Speed: The Heartbeat of a Legend

Let's not forget what makes a Charger, well, a Charger. Even amidst stricter regulations, the 440 Magnum version managed to clock impressive speeds. It ran a quarter mile at Raceway Park with a respectably quick time—though those skinny G70 tires held it back a tad. Swapping 'em out for the wider G60 would have certainly added some bite to that bark.

Legacy and Impact

The 1973 Dodge Charger is a testament to resilience. Despite new rules that could've clipped its wings, it continued soaring on the strengths of its reputation and its ability to resonate with drivers craving power and style. From auctions to the silver screen, it remains a symbol of American muscle—a legend in its own right.

Interested in Buying or Selling a Classic Car?

Ah, the collector's game! Whether you're diving into buying or selling a classic car, it's crucial to do your homework. One of the first things to get ahold of is a vehicle history report—yup, like a or a . They might seem like just papers, but trust me, they tell tales of accidents, thefts, and much more.

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Think of them as your trusty guides, ensuring you've got all the backstory you need. If you're into classic cars like the Charger, a or perhaps a is the way to go. And if you've got a really old or unique VIN structure, say 13 or 7 digits? No worries, because there's even a and a at your service. So, why wait? It's time to hit the road of classic car adventures!

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Explore Dodge Charger from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

Well, the '73 Charger? It's a real head-turner, you know? Think of it this way: It's like the grand finale of the muscle car era, a bit of a departure from its predecessors. You'll spot the distinctive, more rounded front end, a far cry from the earlier, sharper lines; it's got that almost boat-like shape up front. Plus, the rear looks different too – less aggressive, but still stylish, if you ask me. The taillights are kind of unique to that year, and let's not forget those iconic bumpers. Overall, there's a distinct, smooth-flowing shape to it—a big departure from the earlier models' aggressive look. Look closely and you'll see the subtle differences which make this model so special. It really stands out from the crowd!

Ah, the powerplants! This is where things get interesting. You had quite a range of options, from relatively tame (for a Charger, anyway!) to seriously powerful. You could find a smaller-displacement V8, maybe even a six-cylinder if you were feeling frugal, although those were less common. But, you know, the real fun started with the bigger V8s. That said, even the bigger engines weren't quite as crazy as in earlier years - emissions regulations were starting to tighten things up, even for a beast like this. The performance did take a hit from the previous models but they still packed a punch, mind you! Do your research because there's some variation within each engine type depending on what options came with a particular Charger.

Production numbers for the '73 Charger were a bit lower compared to some earlier years; they weren't quite as popular as the earlier, more aggressive-looking models. The market was changing, you know? Fewer were made; exact numbers fluctuate based on which source you consult – it’s a bit of a mess trying to pin down the precise amount; and you'll find differing figures. It’s one of those things where it’s not quite exact because of record-keeping methods at the time. But, generally speaking, they're considered less common than some earlier models. That makes finding a good one that much more exciting, though, right?

Buying a classic car is a commitment, and with this one, you'll want to be prepared. These Chargers, being older, are prone to issues like rust, especially in the body panels and undercarriage. You should absolutely check for rust, especially if you're dealing with a car that has spent its life in a snowy region. Also, the electrical systems can be finicky, so be sure to test all the lights, gauges, and wipers. The braking system too, might require some work, so don't skip over a proper brake inspection. And, because parts are becoming harder to find for these older cars, budget accordingly; you may want to plan ahead, you know what I mean? Basically, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is a must. It'll save you a world of headaches down the road!

Finding parts can be a bit of an adventure, but it's definitely doable. You'll want to check out classic car parts suppliers, both online and local brick-and-mortar stores. Online forums dedicated to classic Dodge Chargers are goldmines for information; people there know their stuff. There are also a fair number of specialty shops that cater specifically to these muscle cars. And, hey, sometimes you gotta get creative – you might find yourself needing to source some parts in unexpected places! But it’s all part of the fun. Seriously, though; do your homework and finding the right resources will pay off.