20th Sep, 2023 12:00

30th Anniversary Sale at The Imperial War Museum | Duxford, Cambridgeshire

 
Lot 391
 

1969 Dodge Charger 'General Lee'
Displayed at the 'Dukes of Hazzard' London film premiere

Sold for £59,625

(including buyers premium)


Lot details

Registration No: CNH 320G
Chassis No: XP29F9B282856
MOT: Exempt

  • Correct model year, matching numbers example
  • Displayed at the Dukes of Hazzard London film premiere, with signatures on the dashboard from the actors themselves
  • Subject to a two-year £77,000 restoration completed in the Summer of 2023
  • Impressive history file which includes the very rarely found Chrysler Corporation Build Schedule for the car

The inception of the Dodge Charger in the mid-1960s marked a pivotal moment in American automotive history, as it embodied a captivating synthesis of engineering prowess, performance excellence, and cultural resonance. Notably celebrated for its potent V8 powertrains, the Charger offered an array of engine options, with highlights including the legendary HEMI variants. This allowed for impressive horsepower figures and torque delivery, translating into formidable straight-line acceleration and unmatched driving exhilaration.

Beyond the brawny powerplants, the Charger's technical sophistication extended to its suspension and handling dynamics. A carefully tuned suspension system, often incorporating heavy-duty components, enabled optimal weight distribution and responsive road manners. This engineering finesse facilitated controlled cornering and stability at high speeds, making the Charger not just a showpiece of straight-line power, but a truly balanced performance machine.

In addition to its engineering prowess, the Dodge Charger etched its name into popular culture through appearances such as the iconic television series "The Dukes of Hazzard." This crossover into entertainment not only enhanced the Charger's visibility but also affirmed its status as an American automotive icon.

Due to the sheer number of Chargers destroyed during the making of the TV series and subsequent film, there are very few correct 1969 model year cars left as to match the ‘General Lee’. Fortunately, this particular Charger is indeed a ‘69 car, with a fantastic registration ‘CNH 320G’ to match the ‘CNH 320’ registration itself used in the film and series, as well as the iconic horn. With a factory specification boasting a 318 cu in V8 engine, air conditioning, automatic console shift, arm rest, interior lights, radio and more, the car was purchased via auction in the US on 28 September 2001 as a restoration project and shipped to the UK the following month. The car was then subject to what is believed to be largely a self-restoration. Invoices on file for parts total c.£8,000 during this period, before the car was first registered for UK roads on 1st April 2003.

Almost 2 years later, in March 2005, the car would partake in the BBC Red Nose Rally, and more notably was then used as the display vehicle for the Dukes of Hazzard film premiere in Leicester Square in August 2005. With a number of signatures on the dashboard from the actors themselves, as well as extensive photographs of the car used in press with the actors once more, this eye-catching example still retains its matching engine and gearbox numbers and therefore presents an excellent opportunity for any collector or enthusiast looking or a period-correct example with film association provenance.

Having been purchased by the vendor in November 2019, ‘CNH 320G’ was not quite up to the standards expected and was enjoyed for a period before being entrusted to Fisher Restoration for restoration which would begin in October 2021. The interior remains largely original, and was not restored, but this refurbishment would span almost two years, being completed in the summer of 2023 and to the tune of £77,652.36.

‘CNH 320G’ is offered for sale with an impressive history file containing the original Chrysler Corporation build schedule for the car. This build sheet matches the VIN and is a very rare find as it was used externally to track the build of the cars. Also included is a copy of the California title, an email receipt for its purchase in 2001, shipping documentation, vehicle license application documentation and the authorisation certificate. A large collection of previous invoices, as well as MOT certificates are present dating back to 2001, various memorabilia and newspaper articles relating to the film premiere, invoices detailing the recent restoration totalling £77,652.36 and both a USB stick with various photos from the Red Nose Rally and photographs taken at the film premiere and a DVD also from the rally.

For more information, please contact:
Andreas Hicks
andreas.hicks@handh.co.uk
07943584762

 

Auction: 30th Anniversary Sale at The Imperial War Museum | Duxford, Cambridgeshire, 20th Sep, 2023

Established in 1993, H&H has sold some of the world's most significant motorcars and motorcycles over the past 30 years. Now owned by its employees and trusted by over 75,000 clients worldwide, we are the longest established auction house of our kind in Europe.

 

Buyers, bidders and attendees will enjoy a special day in the prestigious Imperial War Museum with some fantastic treats including.
Drinks Reception   |   Music   |   Guest Speakers

With each successful bidder receiving a specially selected hamper.

Watch the website for more details.

 

To take part in the bidding action please click 'Register to Bid | Sign In' at the top of the page

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Tuesday 19th September 2023 from 1pm to 8pm
Wednesday 20th September 2023 from 9am

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All successful bids must be paid in full by midday the day after the auction at the latest.

You can collect your new pride and joy from our venue until 1pm the day following the sale or our partners are on hand to help arrange safe transportation:

               

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If so, contact one of our friendly specialists for your free valuation by completing the form below and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.

If you prefer to speak to humans, don't hesitate to call our office on +44 (0)1925 210035

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