The Challenger's exterior was in pretty good shape. It had a vinyl top which I knew was covering more than the eye could see. There were a few rust spots around the guards and she had a few small spots around the lower guards, nothing major. This was a normal amount of rust for a 35 year old car. One thing I wasn't impressed with was the mad bill spoiler. When I first laid eyes on it, I knew it had to go. It's not the prettiest wing ever made but it was solid and well built. Still, it wouldn't be there for much longer. The spoiler and trunk are in storage for a laugh and history.

In terms of the engine bay, it was an eyesore but all the original parts were there. The previous owner informed us that the car was originally a B5 Blue car, which is correct. One of the prior owners painted the car Alpine White some time in the late 70's early 80's. This car has spent the majority of it's life in white and she will continue to wear this shade. I am not a big fan of B5 Blue, it was too "blah" didn't do anything for the car except make you fall asleep. In the right sun, it was an "OK" shade but in the shade or wrong angle, to me, it was boring and did nothing for the car.

"Vanishing Point" did help in my decision, somewhat. I have always been a fan and saw the movie while "sick" from school aged 11 or 12. I didn't know Mopar existed or what the car was but I remember Barry Newman driving that angry white V8, I loved that car. I was glued to the screen. But, it wasn't the only reason for keeping and painting the car white, as it's nice to hop in the car and feel the vibe of the whole car chase and the movie. It's far from an exact replica and that is the way I want it. It's missing many items from the wrong mirror (the movie car had one and a different style) to the bumper guards and manual transmission. I made the car for me, not for enthusiasts, correctness gurus or Vanishing Point fans. I used personal touches and ideas to make the Challenger R/T my own.