Debuted at the Milwaukee Auto Show on November 16-24, 1963, the new Charger roadster stole the show at the Dodge exhibit. The customized competition roadster stands only 47 3/4-inches high and is based on a standard Dodge convertible. Chrysler engineers utilized the primary body panels to maintain a close relationship between the Charger roadster show car and classic production vehicles.
Chrysler Corporations vice president and director of styling, Elwood Engel, stated, "The Charger's styling speaks Dodge." "Our design gives this specialty car a youthful, "get-up-and-go" appearance which reflects the Dodge image as an all-out, dependable performer."
The Charger's design required removing the bumpers, wheels, body mechanisms, seats, and top. Not only did this lighten the new Charger, it also provided a starting point for the stylist to begin their design for a sleek competition roadster. With the removal of the front and rear bumpers, the stylist added lower valances with a set of four small bumper guards. To maintain an aggressive and expansive grill, single seven-inch headlights were used. New magnesium Halibrand wheels were mounted with special Goodyear Wingfoot high-performance tires. The rear wheel-wells were designed to accept wider rim and tire combinations for drag racing.
Initially, the Charger was fitted with a single 4-barrel carburetor, but the hood design allowed modifications to accept twin four-barrel carburetors. Atop the long hood sits a Ramcharger scoop. The addition of the inside forced cool outside air into the 426 Cid Wedge engine. The exhaust used "lake-type" headers for competition and cover plates; the exhaust gases could be directed through regular dual mufflers for street use.
The windshield is only six inches high and combines with the lowered side glass to create a competitive appearance. The rear rollbar covers the conventional rear seating area, while the integrated headrest provides comfort and support to the occupants. The interior seating and trim are upholstered in charcoal gray leather, combined with a complementary black cut pile carpet covering the floor, most side panels, and the cowl section. The twin bucket seats are fully padded and have special pleats to increase comfort. The occupants are secured into the buckets with matching Deist competition seatbelt-harness.
The Charger features a full-length console and upper "cockpit divider." The divider is leather-trimmed and features an 8000 RPM tachometer high at eye level. The deep-dish steering wheel, passenger grab rail, and the gear-shift selector are all walnut. The walnut is a deep contrast to the bright metal trim used on the accelerator, brake, and parking brake pedals.
Source: coach built
Images: www.shorey.net; RM Auctions; www.shooterz.biz
