I'm doing some research for an article on a 1971 Challenger R/T, but there is vagueness about an R/T convertible.

Every source I see says there were no "factory" rag tops in '71, but there are a slew of them for sale. Are these aftermarket upgrades?

Also, I read there was a non-R/T version with all the same performance options, but no R/T emblems or VINs. What's the deal and why all the weirdness?

no 340 R/T's in 71- but not sure on other motor combos-

There are NO '71 Challenger R/T convertibles, the '71 Challenger convertible was available with /6, 318, 340 4bbl, 383 2bbl & 383 4bbl ONLY.

In '71 the 340 4bbl was available in R/T & non-R/T hardtops.

1971 VINs
JH27 - Challenger convertible
JH23 - Challenger hardtop (also used for A93 - Challenger coupe "DEPUTY")
JS23 - Challenger R/T hardtop

Okay, cool, I just wanted to make sure I was being accurate.

So what's up with all the listings on Google when you search for "1971 Challenger R/T convertible"? There seem to be a lot of cars listed for sale with that designation, are these just restoration upgrades??

Example: http://autocollections.com/index.cfm?key=3540&action=details&tab=inventory&cartable=

the VIN is right there in the auction: JH27N.... it's just a challenger convert with a 383. added hemi, added r/t stripes.

aren't 383 4bbls on E bodies R/Ts ?

I made my own 71 "R/T" Ragtop back in the mid 80s. Started with a decent 318/904 Blue on Blue and just started adding on parts...ended up with a 440+6/727 with correct RT suspension etc. The car was a blast to drive and I did not need to care how rare it was since it was a 1 of none... Kinda wish I had the same feeling about the current car. I always smiled when the chebby and furd guys insisted about the time when {insert family member} bought one just like it back in the day...

Jim

yes I know on VIN the S indicates an R/T, like on Chargers, but wondering... on the same way a factory 440 Charger it is an R/T by default ( up to 71 ) aren't Challies with 383 4Bbls also R/Ts by default ?

( not talking about convert )

Nope.. There are plenty of 383 Magnum powered non-R/T's

Nice guys! thanks! I had that confusion.

Thanks from me as well, I appreciate that you all spent the time to clear this up!

The factory made no 1971 Challenger R/T convertibles - anybody selling one as a "clone" is wrong - they are technically considered "phantoms." I've built a few phantoms myself including a 1971 Panther Pink Challenger "R/T" convertible with a 440-6 and the 1971 Plum Crazy Challenger "R/T" convertible with 440 and shaker (4 wheel disc brakes and a/c) shown in my signature.