WHICH CHARGER WOULD YOU BUY & WHY

[RCCthatsme]

https://www.flemingsultimategarage.com/vehicles/2829/1969-dodge-charger-440-r-t-se-r-t-se





https://www.smokymountaintraders.com/cars-for-sale/353/1969-dodge-charger-rt

[RCCthatsme]

Challenger340 - I wrote you 5 or 6 PMS.... Not sure what is going on but they just wouldn't go through.  Would appreciate your insight. 

[6pkrtse]

Neither. way too rich for me..... I do like either one of them though.

[RCCthatsme]

Neither. way too rich for me..... I do like either one of them though.

That is the market today.   Both are about the same price, so the question is which has more value down the road and which do you find more aesthetically pleasing to the eye.   

The bottom car has A/C.  That is near certain an aftermarket add, so is then the controls.  However, it has the read quarter emblem, the power windows are an uncommon option and I do like the vinyl top.   For me, it sits nice on the road, but that is an easy change.  This is more about the best value for the $80K investment.

[moparstuart]

Red Stripe , with Redlines gets it for me   

[RECHRGD]

Well they're both nice cars.  Both have modifications, so the originality factor is gone.  If you want to spend that kind of money, just pick your favorite color tail stripe.  Just remember that these dealers bought those cars for substantially less than what they're asking price is.....

[Bad B-rad]

From the photos and the ads, and giving each a three min look, I think the bottom one may be a better driver, with the A/C, the 5 Speed!!! PW(I hate the engine bay, but that's just me, its all subjective)
So if you want to enjoy the car, on the road, maybe the bottom one.
I like it a touch more, the stripe, and the emblem, the wood grain look, P/W, A/C, Both look GREAT!!!!
But its a LOT of money to spend!!

[John_Kunkel]

 

The bottom car has A/C.  That is near certain an aftermarket add, so is then the controls. 

Text says " This Charger is a factory Air Conditioned car that has been upgraded to the 134A."

I'd go for the bottom one based on the A/C and the options.

[68X426]

It's a coin toss.  The A/C is just enough to sway me, but subjectively - I much prefer NO vinyl roof, so the first one.

[JB400]

If you buy the one with the white butt stripe, you might get a hug from the blonde.

[BIGBLCK11]

White stripe / bottom one.  Painted underbody wins over that undercoat job. A/C and 5 speed too!  Also, 80k and they don't post engine pics??      I like the stripe delete emblem, but it could be added. Just looks cleaner and they gave you better pics to see it.  The other doesn't look terrible by any means.  Both are too high, but at dealers in a tough market, as you said.

[Worker Bee]

The white striped Charger was originally A4 silver in case you didn't know........not that there's anything wrong with that. When it was converted to manual trans, they didn't upgrade to a Dana 60 rear axle.
The red striped Charger has the correct Hurst shifter and it's got a Dana 60. It could be an original 4sp car, but there's no photo of the tag to confirm.

If you are serious buyer, you should call Flemmings and see if they will sent you a photo of the fender tag.

[Mytur Binsdirti]

For 83 grand, I hope it comes with a weekend with her.

[1968Fever]

The top car sold at Mecum in January for $63K and was talked about in this forum.  After you read this short thread your question will probably be answered.

http://www.dodgecharger.com/forum/index.php/topic,131195.0.html

[RCCthatsme]

The top car sold at Mecum in January for $63K and was talked about in this forum.  After you read this short thread your question will probably be answered.

http://www.dodgecharger.com/forum/index.php/topic,131195.0.html

THANK YOU!     

Any insight on the bottom car?   


IF anyone has, or knows of, a 69 RT/SE for sale, please PM me.

Thanks

[RCCthatsme]

The hot chick Charger shows the color has been changed and the transmission is swapped out (auto to manual).  A bit surprised to see the A/C and power windows were part of the original order.  




XS29:
Dodge Charger
Special, R/T
2 Door Sports Hardtop

L9B: 440 375HP 1-4BBL 8 CYL
1969
Dodge Main, Hamtramck, MI, USA

231720:   Sequence number

E86:    440 cid 4 barrel V8 (High Performance) 375hp
D32:    Heavy Duty Automatic Transmission
A4:    Silver Metallic Exterior Color
CRX:    Trim - Charger, Leather Bucket Seats, Black
X9:    Black Int. Door Frames
C04:    Build Date: December 04
004393:   Order number

A01:    Unknown Top Color
A47:    Special Edition Package
B51:    Power Brakes
C21:    Center Front Seat Cushion
C55:    Bucket Seats
G11:    Tinted Glass (all)

G33:    LH Remote Racing Mirror
H51:    Air Conditioning with Heater
J25:    3 Speed Wipers
L31:    Hood/Fender Mounted Turn Signals
M21:    Roof drip rail moldings
M31:    Belt Moldings

P31:    Power Windows
R11:    Radio Solid State AM (2 Watts)
V1X:    Unknown
V88:    Tranverse Stripes, Deleted
26:    26in Radiator
26:    26in Radiator

[Challenger340]

I received the one pm on Feb 24th which I answered as below ?
and,
now I see one pm yesterday and two today ?

No matter,
I am NOT an expert by any means, and just as dumbfounded around pricing in this market as anyone, nonetheless, these are just my opinions.
Car #1 the Smokey Mountain Trader example.
https://www.smokymountaintraders.com/cars-for-sale/353/1969-dodge-charger-rt
It appears to be a very well done, and beautifully restored Car, no doubt about it.
That said,
if there is a "collectible" included to the price point relative of the R/T SE AO1/A47,  then I have concerns in validating that premium as it relates to being originally an A4 Silver Metallic, D32 Auto/Column Shift example ?
You can't "have your cake and eat it too" so to speak.... by saying it's an original "R/T SE" in justifying a price premium, without also duely noting the price retraction for being an Auto/Column Shift/Silver R/T SE redone Black/4spd/console ?
At which point....
whats the point ? versus say NOT paying the premium price for an very well done XS 383 Car "cloned" with a 4 gear and 440 into an "R/T" if DRIVING IT is the main satisfaction you seek in acquiring ?

Just say'in here, and IMO,
if I were selling my R/T SE, one of the first things many potential Buyers would KNOCK about it for a price reduction, I believe would be that mine is an Auto/Column Shift ?  Which would therein disqualify mine from those whose driving "preference" would want the 4 Spd Console and UN-original, and want to PAY for that ?
versus,
the "purists" who would want it 100% UN-touched and true to it's Fender Tag/B-Sheet and willing to pay for that originality.

[Challenger340]

 Car #2 at Flemings
https://www.flemingsultimategarage.com/vehicles/2829/1969-dodge-charger-440-r-t-se-r-t-se

I can't believe the price of these things.
Again here, just my opinions and I am NO EXPERT whatsoever !
Again, Nice looking Charger !  

I don't see a Fender Tag ? But they do mention it.
I don't see a B/Sheet, nor the mention of one ? other than "loaded with documentation".
Inspection of both the Fender Tag and B/Sheet, once again here, would seem in order to verify what you are paying for ? Collectible or Driving preference as it relates to ultimate asset valuation at resale(if ever).
Nonetheless, claims of A33 and A47 would seem to suggest legitimacy for inspection ?

My pet peeve as an Engine Builder.... any claims of #'s matching 440 Magnum 375hp, without specific documentation of just what PISTONS were used in the rebuild ! preferably on an actual INVOICE.
The 8qt Oil Pan and Headers mean squat, because the landscape is far too littered with SLUG 440's that can't get out of their own way no matter the "bolt-ons",  having been rebuilt/butchered to so-called "factory specs" with 230hp 1978 motorhome PISTONS... making the whole "Numbers Matching" L code Engine thing a moot point !
They don't say "Numbers matching" ? only 'L" Code 440

Re-sprung rear leafs ?
Might want to investigate because something funky to my mind with the ass end up like that ?
Body work appears funny in the photos ? and I don't SEE any marker lights in the 1/4 panels ? WTF ?
again here a personal inspection to tell for sure ?

[Challenger340]

If you are serious ?
Maybe you could try Car #1 at Smokey Mountain Traders for $65K to $70K
https://www.smokymountaintraders.com/cars-for-sale/353/1969-dodge-charger-rt

What can they say other than "NO" ? wherein you walk and can re-visit later.(for at least 1 week)

Bargaining chips to you believe yours is a fair offer
* it's been for sale for 3 months at $80K with no takers, which would tend to suggest a market over valuation.
* NON-Original to it's Fender Tag/B-Sheet R/T SE (Silver/Auto/Column)
* Std/Tremec + 8 3/4 Diff was a no-no from factory for a reason(tell them)
* Do they have an Invoice for the Engine rebuild and What PISTONS were used. (see my pet peeve above)

IMO, FAR better looking, and appears to be FAR better restored Car than the "red" stripe example(problems)

[Challenger340]

Neither. way too rich for me..... I do like either one of them though.

That is the market today.   Both are about the same price, so the question is which has more value down the road and which do you find more aesthetically pleasing to the eye.  

The bottom car has A/C.  That is near certain an aftermarket add, so is then the controls.  However, it has the read quarter emblem, the power windows are an uncommon option and I do like the vinyl top.   For me, it sits nice on the road, but that is an easy change.  This is more about the best value for the $80K investment.

IMO, your "best value for the $80K investment" from a strictly monetary perspective, has "historically" at resale been mostly about those examples as close to stock as possible ? Survivors or concourse pure restorations.
However of late....
and with the advent of RatRods, customs, etc., that are designed for DRIVING.... personal taste expectations have narrowed those price premiums paid for the numbers thing.

[moparfan53]

 Both nice cars. Minor thing I noticed on the bottom one. The tail lights have incorrect appearance. The silver paint line in the middle of the lens is missing. Either it wore off, which I have seen happen but not the full width of lens, or it was removed on purpose, or the lenses are from  '70 model.

Also, I assume you know the R/T emblem with the stripe is not correct. I see that done sometimes, is a personal taste thing I guess.

IMO, red lines would look great on the bottom car. The red on the tire with the black paint and red in the R/T emblem... 

[cdr]

The Top one has the wrong parking lights in the front.

[moparfan53]

The Top one has the wrong parking lights in the front.

At first glance I thought perhaps they looked amber because the lights were on. But after looking closer I agree. Looks like they are from a '70 Charger.

[6pkrtse]

For 83 grand, I hope it comes with a weekend with her.

The blonde next to this one is incredible. Wow! my red Charger doesn't attract hotties like this. Must be a black thing.

[gtx6970]

For 80K, Neither.
Id'  keep looking

now way in he77 either one of them is worth that kind of money ( my opinion only )

[69 OUR/TEA]

For 80K, Neither.
Id'  keep looking

now way in he77 either one of them is worth that kind of money ( my opinion only )

X2 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I do believe both have had a color change , neither of them are orig black cars .

[RCCthatsme]

Truly appreciate the insight.  I have already eliminated the top car.  The bottom car is one that has aesthetic appeal but also appears over priced  I am going to offer the lowest price expressed here and see what happens. 


I'd pop $80 for the Charger being discussed here, but it is as common as a unicorn. 


What I like about the bottom car is, the restoration appears to be solid.  The original color, one of the downsides for value, is silver (a solid color to bring back onto the body).  The conversion from tree/steering column to console may be bad for value, but a must have for me to buy.

If you happen across one for sale, I would appreciate a heads up.

[RCCthatsme]

If you are serious ?
Maybe you could try Car #1 at Smokey Mountain Traders for $65K to $70K
https://www.smokymountaintraders.com/cars-for-sale/353/1969-dodge-charger-rt

What can they say other than "NO" ? wherein you walk and can re-visit later.(for at least 1 week)

Bargaining chips to you believe yours is a fair offer
* it's been for sale for 3 months at $80K with no takers, which would tend to suggest a market over valuation.
* NON-Original to it's Fender Tag/B-Sheet R/T SE (Silver/Auto/Column)
* Std/Tremec + 8 3/4 Diff was a no-no from factory for a reason(tell them)
* Do they have an Invoice for the Engine rebuild and What PISTONS were used. (see my pet peeve above)

IMO, FAR better looking, and appears to be FAR better restored Car than the "red" stripe example(problems)

I will shout that reason from the rooftop, once you tell me what it is. LOL!   (I thought the 8 3/4 rear end was a standard through the early 70s?

[Challenger340]

If you are serious ?
Maybe you could try Car #1 at Smokey Mountain Traders for $65K to $70K
https://www.smokymountaintraders.com/cars-for-sale/353/1969-dodge-charger-rt

What can they say other than "NO" ? wherein you walk and can re-visit later.(for at least 1 week)

Bargaining chips to you believe yours is a fair offer
* it's been for sale for 3 months at $80K with no takers, which would tend to suggest a market over valuation.
* NON-Original to it's Fender Tag/B-Sheet R/T SE (Silver/Auto/Column)
* Std/Tremec + 8 3/4 Diff was a no-no from factory for a reason(tell them)
* Do they have an Invoice for the Engine rebuild and What PISTONS were used. (see my pet peeve above)

IMO, FAR better looking, and appears to be FAR better restored Car than the "red" stripe example(problems)

I will shout that reason from the rooftop, once you tell me what it is. LOL!   (I thought the 8 3/4 rear end was a standard through the early 70s?

8 3/4" Diffs are a tough piece, but they don't much like the "shock" of a 4 spd clutch dump when behind a 440 or Hemi ?

So back in the day Mopar used to upgrade to a Dana 60 Diff behind 4 speed Hemi or 440 Cars,(with only the "automatics" using 8 3/4 Diffs.)

The White Stripe R/T SE having been "converted" to the Tremec std transmission from it's original D32 automatic, still has it's original factory 8 3/4 Diff, which depending on the Engine power should probably be just fine. Again Clutch "dumps" with tire traction are hard on the 8 3/4 Pinions, but still a tough diff.

[pipeliner]

I can't tell ya how many clutch dumps my 8 3/4 has had over the years and I'm still clutch dumping it with a T-56 Magnum and the original axles! I keep saying when it grenades I'm putting the Dana 60 back in it so until then...BTW the Black 70 RT at Smokey looks better than both these 69,s but way high.

[Challenger340]

Without prejudice to the "Delusional Sellers Thread" here on this site...
We may all believe asking prices for whatever 2nd Gen Charger example presented are too high... nonetheless, until someone can walk a mile in anyone elses shoes who is actual trying to purchase one ? finding "better for less money" can be a both frustrating and very disappointing experience.
IMO, the fact remains that these cars are 50 years old, were produced in limited numbers, and have gained great visual recognition not just within the car enthusiast genre, but have notoriety even within the wider non auto educated public in general.
Validation by many as collectible "assets" has not helped domestic and overseas pressures, further compounding the supply side

Just say'in here... and IMO...
if someone believes or has an opinion, as to "why" a particular example is too highly priced ?
I think it may be really beneficial for anyone who may be "in the hunt" reading that opinion, and the OP of this thread, to be also directed by the purveyor of that opinion to a currently for sale "better example" for less money ?

We pick.... pick... pick.... pick away at the various examples flaws for the money, and that's FINE ! because potential Buyers need insights of what they are getting into ?
But when it comes to "pricing" ?
All I am saying here is WHERE ?.....  is there a BETTER one for LESS ?

[INTMD8]

Good post ^

[RCCthatsme]

Any recommendations on who to use to inspect the vehicle?


I must also agree with the comment made by 340.  I've been looking for well over a yea.r  I've engaged the forum a number of times and have not found a single 69 that is represented in the comments for under $100K.  I have gotten my wife on board, but only up to $80K.  (I have made an offer on the bottom car.)

[68X426]

Any recommendations on who to use to inspect the vehicle?

http://www.autoappraisal.com/

AAG has been very good for us on four occasions in the past 2 years.  They are nationwide.  One of their contractors is on this site (sorry can't remember his name) and could maybe answer questions.  Search for AAG posts.

[Challenger340]

This could be interesting, and a no reserve auction
https://www.ebay.com/itm/1969-Dodge-Charger-RT-SE-Track-Pack/302661609744?hash=item467809a910:g:TgAAAOSwADtanzT9&vxp=mtr

[Fitz73Chrgr]

Any recommendations on who to use to inspect the vehicle?

I used Lemon Squad and was mostly happy with them.  Their interpretations of the car didn't totally line up with my assessment of their pictures, so I went with my conclusions, not theirs.  But their pictures and test drive did give me the warm and fuzzy.

[303 Mopar]

Any recommendations on who to use to inspect the vehicle?

I would highly suggest getting on a plane and going to see the car in person, especially when you get to this level and $$.

[HPP]

For 83 grand, I hope it comes with a weekend with her.

The blonde next to this one is incredible. Wow! my red Charger doesn't attract hotties like this. Must be a black thing.

Its a Smoky Mtn Traders thing.

[RCCthatsme]

This could be interesting, and a no reserve auction
https://www.ebay.com/itm/1969-Dodge-Charger-RT-SE-Track-Pack/302661609744?hash=item467809a910:g:TgAAAOSwADtanzT9&vxp=mtr

Fender tag detail below.  It appears it was restored keeping to the original colors.  Not a single bid at $74K.   I offered $65 on the Smokey Mtn charger, $68 if they picked up shipping.  He said thanks but no thanks. I like the ebay charger, but do prefer the center console. The question I have for you is one I believe I know the answer to already, at $74K which is the better investment?

XS29:
Dodge Charger
Special, R/T
2 Door Sports Hardtop

L9B: 440 375HP 1-4BBL 8 CYL
1969
Dodge Main, Hamtramck, MI, USA

374975:   Sequence number

E86:    440 cid 4 barrel V8 (High Performance) 375hp
D21:    4 Speed Manual Transmission
F8:    Dark Green Metallic Exterior Color
CRT:    Trim - Charger, Leather Bucket Seats, Tan
T3:    Light Bronze Metallic Int. Door Frames
509:    Build Date: May 09
204238:   Order number

A01:    Unknown Top Color
A33:    Track Pak w/3.54 ratio
A47:    Special Edition Package
B51:    Power Brakes
C55:    Bucket Seats
L31:    Hood/Fender Mounted Turn Signals

M21:    Roof drip rail moldings
M31:    Belt Moldings
R21:    AM/FM Radio (5 1/2 Watts)
V1T:    Unknown
V88:    Tranverse Stripes, Deleted
26:    26in Radiator

[68RT440]

For 83 grand, I hope it comes with a weekend with her.

The blonde next to this one is incredible. Wow! my red Charger doesn't attract hotties like this. Must be a black thing.

Hell, I'd pay 80K just for the blonde!

[Challenger340]

Best "investment" is subjective to a what Buyer segment preference you would be targeting at resale ?
To explain further, and again just my opinion as NO expert... there is a collector market and a custom/modified/nice car market, and I guess maybe those in-between ?
IMO, and as I said earlier......
For collectors and "Historically", the nod for highest valuations at resale, went to those examples restored as close to stock and their supporting documentation as possible.
However,
The caveat these days with prices that seem to have been pushed to the point where indeed all very nicely done examples seem to be commanding "investment" prices or close to it.... is to heck with the numbers/collector thing and acquire what you want, wherein, all you can assess in whatever you pay for the investment ? How many others will pay if you decide to liquidate.

IMO, The 2 examples illustrate and showcase what I'm talking about.
1.) The Smokey Mountain Trader example is a very nicely redone Charger R/T SE, albeit, when restored it was deviated from it's "original" supporting Fender Tag & Broadcast Sheet documentation,(A4 Silver/Column Shift Automatic) into obviously what the owner more "preferred" being a 3X Black 440/Std Trans example. We can quibble about details, ie: the 8 3/4" Diff behind the std trans as "incorrect" ? But WTF is the point when the rest of the car is incorrect anyways as an "original" Silver/Auto/Column Shift R/T SE ?  
So I'm guessed their valuation is in it appealing to the Holy Grail crowd, nonetheless, it really is not.  That is NOT to say it isn't a great car, it certainly looks to be just that.

2.) The Green R/T SE is at the opposite end of the spectrum, in that quite obviously whoever restored it in recognition of it being an R/T SE Track pack example, has maintained that originality true to it's supporting documentation, IMO, hoping to realize highest valuation at resale within a more "purist" collector segment of Buyers.  That said, many people across many Buyer segments do not particularly like/rate the color GREEN as high on the desirability list ?
I like Green and always have.... just saying.... many people don't go out actively looking for Green examples ?

Bottom line, it doesn't matter what I.... or anyone else here thinks ?
It only matters what YOU are going to be happy with, and you are going to enjoy DRIVING.... the "investment" side of the equation only relative to if you ever decide to liquidate.

If you offered the Smokey dorks $65K and they declined ? leave your number/contact info and IMO, walk away for awhile ? Call back periodically and ask if they have reconsidered your offer, no harm in that.

I am just curious to watch and see what Bids are for the Green R/T SE Track Pack on Ebay ? Same as most I guess, but it's just a Barometer thing for me to watch around the overall market
 

[Challenger340]

Truly appreciate the insight.  I have already eliminated the top car.  The bottom car is one that has aesthetic appeal but also appears over priced  I am going to offer the lowest price expressed here and see what happens. 


I'd pop $80 for the Charger being discussed here, but it is as common as a unicorn. 

I must have missed it.... Which example was it that you would pop $80K for the Charger being discussed here ?

[RCCthatsme]

Truly appreciate the insight.  I have already eliminated the top car.  The bottom car is one that has aesthetic appeal but also appears over priced  I am going to offer the lowest price expressed here and see what happens. 


I'd pop $80 for the Charger being discussed here, but it is as common as a unicorn. 

I must have missed it.... Which example was it that you would pop $80K for the Charger being discussed here ?

The original 69 RT/SE center console (or restored to original) Charger. Of course, as you state, the color schemes are a matter of taste.  I wish the smokey mtn car was left silver.  I don't mind the green but the car is so big I just want the center console.  < My 1st car was the 69 SE on the colm.  The front seat was great for sitting 3 and pushing that hot lady a bit closer to me, but the bench seat was like a living room when not occupied.  The ebay Charger is, at least, bucket seating.     I will keep an eye on it but my focus is on the Smokey Mtn car.  He did reply and, should he not sell it and lower the price  will buy it.

[BDF]

This could be interesting, and a no reserve auction
https://www.ebay.com/itm/1969-Dodge-Charger-RT-SE-Track-Pack/302661609744?hash=item467809a910:g:TgAAAOSwADtanzT9&vxp=mtr

Fender tag detail below.  It appears it was restored keeping to the original colors.  Not a single bid at $74K.   I offered $65 on the Smokey Mtn charger, $68 if they picked up shipping.  He said thanks but no thanks. I like the ebay charger, but do prefer the center console. The question I have for you is one I believe I know the answer to already, at $74K which is the better investment?

XS29:
Dodge Charger
Special, R/T
2 Door Sports Hardtop

L9B: 440 375HP 1-4BBL 8 CYL
1969
Dodge Main, Hamtramck, MI, USA

374975:   Sequence number

E86:    440 cid 4 barrel V8 (High Performance) 375hp
D21:    4 Speed Manual Transmission
F8:    Dark Green Metallic Exterior Color
CRT:    Trim - Charger, Leather Bucket Seats, Tan
T3:    Light Bronze Metallic Int. Door Frames
509:    Build Date: May 09
204238:   Order number

A01:    Unknown Top Color
A33:    Track Pak w/3.54 ratio
A47:    Special Edition Package
B51:    Power Brakes
C55:    Bucket Seats
L31:    Hood/Fender Mounted Turn Signals

M21:    Roof drip rail moldings
M31:    Belt Moldings
R21:    AM/FM Radio (5 1/2 Watts)
V1T:    Unknown
V88:    Tranverse Stripes, Deleted
26:    26in Radiator

A01 is the Light Package
&
V1T is your tan vinyl top.
Good luck with your purchase!

[RCCthatsme]

https://cars.trovit.com/used-cars/1969-dodge-charger


This site, and soooo many ads, are why I shut down my search.  I'm exhausted by the thieves  .


Sure, I will give you $25K for that 69 RT hemi. Sight unseen, you got it.  I understand if the vehicle is not as presented, I can return it.  I'll sen the money tomorrow.  I have a HUGE check arriving from Nigeria. 

[Challenger340]

Truly appreciate the insight.  I have already eliminated the top car.  The bottom car is one that has aesthetic appeal but also appears over priced  I am going to offer the lowest price expressed here and see what happens.  


I'd pop $80 for the Charger being discussed here, but it is as common as a unicorn.  

I must have missed it.... Which example was it that you would pop $80K for the Charger being discussed here ?

The original 69 RT/SE center console (or restored to original) Charger. Of course, as you state, the color schemes are a matter of taste.  I wish the smokey mtn car was left silver.  I don't mind the green but the car is so big I just want the center console.  < My 1st car was the 69 SE on the colm.  The front seat was great for sitting 3 and pushing that hot lady a bit closer to me, but the bench seat was like a living room when not occupied.  The ebay Charger is, at least, bucket seating.     I will keep an eye on it but my focus is on the Smokey Mtn car.  He did reply and, should he not sell it and lower the price  will buy it.

As far as I know ?
Bench Seats were NOT available in the R/T SE Models, even with the "Column" Shift.
All R/T SE's were "Bucket" Seats W/Leather inserts, with either with a Console, or Buddy/Armrest in the middle ?

It's a tough market right now to find a really "good" example for sale ?
Invariably it seems there will always be trade off's in what you want in the Car itself or anything found .... let be having to deal with scammer's along the way in your hunt.