First Generation: 1970-1974 Dodge was the last company of Detroit’s Big Three to jump on the pony car bandwagon with its introduction of the Dodge Challenger in 1970. Though late to the game, the Challenger nonetheless rose to unforgettable fame and glory during the 5-year span of its first generation. The Challenger was particularly unique in that it brought something completely new to the table: no other competitor muscle car of this era had its extensive span of engine options, which ranged from the 225 cubic-inch (ci) “Slant Six” engine to any of the following: the 340, 340 “Six Pack,” 383 Magnum, 440 Magnum, 440 “Six Pack,” and, finally, the legendary 426 Hemi “Elephant Motor.” Compared to every other muscle car, the Dodge Challenger has been one of the most collectable and valuable to date, with rare restored models fetching as much as six figures.