An In-Depth Look at the 1969 Dodge Charger

The 1969 Dodge Charger offered an unparalleled selection of options in the model's history. Buyers could choose from a standard version, an upgraded SE (for "Special Edition") trim with added luxury features, a performance-oriented R/T model, and two race-inspired variants: the 500 and the Daytona. Powertrain choices began with Chrysler's reliable 225-cid Slant Six and included five V-8 engines, with the thrilling 425-horsepower 426-cid "Street Hemi" at the top. Transmission choices ranged from three- and four-speed manuals to the smooth three-speed TorqueFlite automatic, depending on the model.

Despite such a wide range of options, the 1969 Dodge Charger was offered in just one body style: a two-door hardtop. This model was a refinement of the fully redesigned 1968 version, built on a 117-inch wheelbase with Chrysler’s familiar torsion-bar suspension up front and leaf springs in the rear. The new design introduced a vertical divider in the grille and horizontal taillights for both the base and R/T models.

Explore the 1969 Dodge Charger in our image gallery

The 1969 Dodge Charger: A Brief History

The most notable new additions to the Charger lineup were the 500 and the Daytona, both products of the intense "aero wars" between Ford and Chrysler as they vied for supremacy in NASCAR stock-car racing. The recessed grille and inset flying-buttress rear window that looked so sleek on the '68 Charger proved to be ineffective at high speeds on the 190-mph oval tracks. To create the 1969 Dodge Charger 500, Chrysler engineers modified the R/T by inserting a Coronet grille (with nonretracting headlamps) and moving it up to the front edge of the car. Additionally, they reduced lift by flush-mounting the rear window.

Dodge built 392 of these vehicles for street use to qualify the Charger 500 for racing. The race-ready 500s went on to secure 19 NASCAR victories, although specially designed Ford Torinos and Mercury Cyclones claimed 30 wins.

1969 Dodge Charger: Modifications

Chrysler engineers returned to the wind tunnel, emerging with the radical Daytona. This 1969 Dodge Charger featured a pointed 18-inch nose extension (complete with pop-up headlights) that reduced drag and increased downforce. The Daytona maintained the 500's rear window and added further lift reduction with a horizontal tail stabilizer mounted on towering vertical extensions rising from the deck. With 503 units produced to meet racing requirements, the Daytona made its racing debut late in the '69 NASCAR season, but it came too late to overcome Ford's dominance. Despite this, the Daytona was capable of hitting 200-mph speeds on the track.

Both the 500 and Daytona competition models were equipped with 426-cid race Hemis. Retail versions could be ordered with the milder Street Hemi or the 375-horsepower 440-cid Magnum V-8. Either way, they were the pinnacle of the 1969 Dodge Charger lineup.

1969 Dodge Charger: Key Specifications