How many 1969 Dodge Chargers were destroyed?
The 1969 Dodge Charger is one of the most iconic muscle cars of all time, but the exact number of these vehicles that were destroyed over the years is a topic of much debate. While precise figures are difficult to come by, research suggests that a significant number of these classic cars met their demise, either through accidents, neglect, or intentional destruction.
The Popularity and Rarity of the 1969 Dodge Charger
The 1969 Dodge Charger was a highly sought-after vehicle, known for its powerful engine, sleek design, and association with popular culture, particularly the hit TV series "The Dukes of Hazzard." However, the car's popularity also contributed to its rarity, as many were driven hard and subjected to various forms of damage or destruction over the years.
Factors Contributing to the Destruction of 1969 Dodge Chargers
Several factors contributed to the destruction of these classic cars:
- Accidents and Crashes: The powerful engines and high-performance capabilities of the 1969 Dodge Charger made them prone to accidents, especially in the hands of inexperienced or reckless drivers. Many of these vehicles were involved in collisions, resulting in significant damage or total destruction.
- Neglect and Abandonment: Over time, some 1969 Dodge Chargers were simply left to rot, either due to lack of interest, financial constraints, or changing priorities. These vehicles often fell into disrepair and were eventually scrapped or crushed.
- Intentional Destruction: Unfortunately, some 1969 Dodge Chargers were intentionally destroyed, either for insurance fraud, movie/TV productions, or other nefarious purposes. The high value of these cars made them targets for such activities.
While the exact number of 1969 Dodge Chargers that were destroyed over the years is unknown, it is clear that a significant portion of these iconic vehicles met an untimely end. The combination of their popularity, power, and susceptibility to various forms of damage and destruction has contributed to the rarity and high value of the remaining examples today.
How much is a 1969 charger worth now?
In the last three years there have been 28 1969 Dodge Chargers sold at public auction. The most recent auction sale of a 1969 Dodge Charger was $82,500 on January 17, 2025 by Mecum Auctions.
How many 1969 Dodge Chargers were left?
Its a rule of thumb in the classic car hobby that after 25 years, the number of a given car still in existence tends to hover around 10% of production, which would be 8,500 in the the 1969 Charger's case.
What is the rarest 1969 Charger?
The HEMI is the rarest of them all, with just 60 made, while the 383 was the most popular, with 2,522 units made.
How many general lees were destroyed during filming?
It survived! Because of the disruption in filming locations this car avoided the fate that more than 230 General Lees faced, total destruction. When filming wrapped in GA, there were a total of 6 General Lees on set, 2 that were totally destroyed, 3 in usable condition and this car which had not yet been used.
How many real general lees are left?
17 originals
Approximately 17 originals still exist, although in various states of repair. On average, more than one General Lee was used up per show. When filming a jump, anywhere from 500 to 1,000 pounds (230 to 450 kg) of sand bags or concrete ballast was placed in the trunk to prevent the car from nosing over.
How many 69 Chargers were destroyed in Dukes of Hazzard?
It is believed, according to Road & Track, that more than 300 1969 Dodge Chargers were totaled during the run of the show, many because of bent frames from jumping.
Why are 69 chargers so expensive?
Due to the fact that the '69 Dodge Charger has been featured in so many movies, television shows, and was even requested by NASCAR, this vehicle is likely to always remain one of the most sought-after classic cars ever.
What was the only car to beat the General Lee?
Back the only car to beat the General Lee in the series was a blue Mustang the double.
How many cars were wrecked in Blues Brothers?
103 cars
Most Cars Crashed in a Movie – Top 10
Back in the late 80's the Blues Brothers (1980) held the record of 103 cars destroyed in a hilarious scenes where police cars continuously piled on top of each other in a very comical fashion.
Who owns the original General Lee car?
Golfer Bubba Watson
Golfer Bubba Watson owns the original General Lee that was used to shoot the opening scenes of the television show. According to the BBC, Watson announced that he would remove the Confederate flag from the roof of General Lee 1 and repaint it with the US flag.
