First introduced to Americans in 1970, the Dodge Challenger was built on the same format as the Plymouth Barracuda and was powered by a 198 inch Slant 6 engine. Throughout its first generation, the Dodge Challenger became available in a convertible, coupe, and hardtop version. Each sold fairly well when they were released. In 1970, a souped up trim was released called the Dodge Challenger T/A (Trans American). It was equipped with 340 Six Pack engine that reached 320 horsepower. Several other limited edition trims were released over the years as well.

In 1974 Dodge ceased production of the Challenger. Unbeknownst to many Americans, Dodge created another Challenger in 1978, but it was only released to consumers overseas. The body style had changed dramatically. The car had become more compact and had sharper lines. The second generation lasted for five years until Dodge, yet again, decided to stop production on the Challenger.

However, in 2008 Dodge was proud to announce that they had given birth to another generation of the Challenger. With the rise in classic car recreation, Dodge jumped right on the train and brought back one of its most loved classic cars. Both the Chicago Auto Show and the Philadelphia Auto Show were the unveiling stops for the rebirth. Harkening back to its earliest days, the 2008 Challenger boasts a tough body style with a slightly raised rear end. Before the car even hit the sales lots, every Challenger made on the production line (6,400 for the initial run) had been sold. The 2008 Challenger is a 2-door coupe much like its earliest predecessor. Also, it is fitted with Dodge's latest addition, the 6.1L HEMI V8.

The Dodge Challenger, especially its earliest year, is one of the most searched for classic cars in the world. Collectors will fight tooth and nail to get their hands on a 1970 Dodge Challenger in fair condition. Famously, the Dodge Challenger was used in movies like Vanishing Point and Quentin Tarantino's Death Proof. There have also been several virtual incarnations of the Dodge Challenger on numerous video games.