1969 Dodge Charger Explained

The 1969 Dodge Charger presented perhaps the widest array of choices in the history of the nameplate. There was a base model, an available SE (for "Special Edition") option that heaped on more luxuries, a hot-performing R/T version, and two wild race-bred iterations: the 500 and the Daytona. Engine selections started with Chrysler's trusty 225-cid Slant Six, but also included five V-8s, topped by the rollicking 425-horsepower 426-cid "Street Hemi." Depending on the model, available transmissions were three- and four-speed manuals, plus the excellent three-speed TorqueFlite automatic.

Given all these choices, it's perhaps ironic that the car came in just one body style, a two-door hardtop. The 1969 Dodge Charger was an update of the completely restyled '68 model, which meant it was built on a 117-inch wheelbase with Chrysler's familiar torsion-bar suspension up front and leaf springs in the back. New styling touches for base and R/T Chargers included a vertical center divider in the grille and horizontal taillights.

1969 Dodge Charger

1969 Dodge Charger Pictures Gallery

The Dukes of Hazzard originally aired between 1979-1985 on CBS and featured one of the most recognized classic American muscle cars. The 1969 Dodge Charger R/T was named "General Lee" and owned in the show by cousins Bo and Luke Duke. The story of the General Lee began with the two cousins looking for a fixer-upper to enter a local race. They found the Dodge Charger (then black in color) with a busted front end. With the help of Cooter (the local mechanic) and their family, the Duke boys put together an orange race car with the doors welded shut (for safety), a confederate flag on the roof and a big "01" painted on the doors. The boys won the race in the Charger, a car with with classic lines and world-beater performance.
The '69 Chargers were further modified to make it through the rigors of shooting. The show went through about 200 - 300 cars during its life, many suffering severe damage thanks to the jumps and rough driving. "First Unit" cars were standard Charger R/Ts prepared for close-up shots and still photography with the actors. The "Second Unit" cars were the workhorses that did the jumps, two wheel driving, 180 degree turns and other stunts. The "Bootlegger turns" were done thanks to overinflated tires and a rigged handbrake. The jumps were done in special cars that had extra weight added to the rear, had reinforced bodies and were equipped with NASCAR style fuel cells to prevent leaks and possible accidents.

1969 dodge charger photo
1969 dodge charger
1969 dodge charger cars show
1969 dodge charger

General Lee Details

* Year: 1969
* Make & Model: Dodge Charger R/T (Road and Track)
* Engine: 440 c.i. Magnum V-8 rated at 375hp (225 c.i., 383 c.i. and 426 c.i. Hemis were also used)
* Carburetor: Four barrel Holly 780 Double-Pumper
* Transmission: Chrysler "Torqueflite" A-727 Heavy Duty Automatic Tranmission
* Wheels: Shelby 10 Spoke Rims and B.F. Goodrich T/A radial tires
* Color: Hugger or Hemi Orange
* Other Notables: Black or tan interiors, three point rollbar, glass pack exhaust, front grill guard, Dana limited slip differential, Dixie horn and CB whip antenna.