The third-generation Dodge Charger body that showed up in 1971 was among the most successful in NASCAR history. The circa-1974 unrestored machine seen here was designed by Carl “Cam” Cameron and built by Jim Vandiver to compete in NASCAR and ARCA competition, and then successfully driven by Vandiver to victory in an ARCA race on May 3, 1975, at Talladega. If it looks familiar, this Dodge was featured in the 1977 movie “Greased Lightning” and seen on the television show “AmeriCarna” with Ray Evernham as well. Indeed, it holds special interest to noted NASCAR crew chief Evernham, who recalls Vandiver famously spinning it out, running across the track at Darlington and then hitchhiking over to Charlotte, North Carolina, to avoid arrest in a divorce case. Furthermore, Evernham has been its prior caretaker, and this car retains its excellent patina, recalling its heritage on and off the racing circuits of yesterday. Underneath the power bulge hood is an orange 426 CI Hemi V-8 engine, correctly wearing a bathtub intake, 4-barrel Holley carburetor and NASCAR cowl induction, complete with twin ignition systems and the NASCAR breather system intact. This is backed by a manual transmission. Sponsored by a Kentucky mining firm, the yellow and black No. 31 exterior still wears Jim Vandiver’s name, period decals, an aluminum rear wing and a superspeedway grille. 3 The black interior is all business, with a side-support driver’s seat, Hurst shifter, dash-mounted toggle controls, taped steering wheel and a full complement of Stewart-Warner gauges. Details here include an original water bottle, an ink autograph by driver Joe Frasson and the scratched-in names on the broad left-side cockpit trim of drivers Frasson, Neil Castles, James Hylton, J.D. McDuffie and storied engine builder Maurice Petty. With a full complement of circle track roll structure elements, plus paired shocks, a racing fuel filler system, rear window braces, adapted safety hubs, steel wheels and Goodyear tires, there is an unquestioned sense of authenticity throughout the No. 31 Charger. This famous car will be sold on a bill of sale, with other receipts included. From the He-Man era of superspeedway racing, the No. 31 story is ready to continue on with a new owner.
