Transmission Options in 1970 Dodge Charger

When it comes to retro racing and classic American muscle cars, the 1970 Dodge Charger holds a special place. One of the factors that has made it a beloved icon is its variety of transmission options, which helped drivers tailor their driving experience to their preferences and the power of their engine. In this article, we will discuss the transmission options available in the 1970 Dodge Charger, and dive into the specific types of transmissions that defined this iconic vehicle.

Diverse Transmission Choices

The 1970 Dodge Charger was equipped with various transmission options, including automatic and manual transmissions. The choice of transmission was influenced by the specific engine and the buyer's preference. Here is a comprehensive look at the available options:

Three-Speed TorqueFlite Automatic Transmission

This was the most common transmission for the 1970 Dodge Charger, especially when paired with the V8 engine options. The TorqueFlite 727 was renowned for its strength and reliability, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts and casual drivers alike. The TorqueFlite 727 transmission was virtually indestructible when maintained properly and was designed to handle high horsepower engines like the 426 Hemi and the 440 cubic inch V8.

Four-Speed Manual Transmission

The 1970 Dodge Charger offered a four-speed manual transmission as an option, particularly for those driving higher-performance vehicles like the 426 Hemi and the 440 cubic inch V8. The four-speed manual transmission was a more advanced and capable option, providing greater control and performance. While it required more skill to operate, it was highly sought after by enthusiasts looking to fine-tune their driving experience.

Three-Speed Manual Transmission

A less common option, the three-speed manual transmission was available on some base models of the 1970 Dodge Charger. This transmission was a more basic option that still provided manual control over gear shifting, but it offered fewer gears compared to the four-speed manual. Despite its simplicity, it was still a viable choice for those who preferred manual transmission.

Chrysler's TorqueFlite 727 Transmission

The TorqueFlite 727 transmission is often credited with being one of the best muscle car transmissions ever built. This transmission, produced by Chrysler, was designed to handle the immense power output of V8 engines, including the 426 Hemi and the 440 cubic inch V8 found in the Dodge Charger. It was known for its robust engineering and durability, making it a favorite among classic car enthusiasts and those who demanded reliability from their transmissions.

The 727 TorqueFlite transmission was widely used in Mopar vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs. Its popularity extended to the high-performance scene, where it continued to make waves decades after it was taken off production. The 727 TorqueFlite transmission was relatively easy to find and maintain, and even novice transmission builders could work with it as a learning tool.

Transmission Selection Based on Engine Size

The specific transmission chosen for the 1970 Dodge Charger often depended on the engine size. Smaller engines, such as the 318 cubic inch V8, were typically paired with the A-904 three-speed automatic transmission. This transmission was part of the TorqueFlite series, known for its smooth operation and efficiency in handling lower engine outputs.

Larger engines, including the 383 and 440 cubic inch V8s, were generally equipped with the 727 three-speed automatic transmission. The 727 TorqueFlite provided a more powerful and efficient performance, making it the preferred choice for those who wanted a car with higher horsepower and greater torque. In some cases, enthusiasts could customize their transmissions to fit their needs, such as ordering a four-speed manual for even more precise control.

Conclusion

The 1970 Dodge Charger offered a range of transmission options, from manual to automatic, to cater to different driving preferences and engine specifications. Whether you were looking for the reliability of the TorqueFlite 727 or the responsiveness of the four-speed manual transmission, the Charger had a transmission to suit your needs. This variety of choices ensured that the 1970 Dodge Charger was not just a powerful machine but also a versatile one, well-suited to a wide range of driving styles and conditions.