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The Charger model designation expanded in '71 - there was the Base model, Custom, 500, SE, R/T and Super Bee. The performance Charger model the R/T was still the top Charger model, with its standard 440 c.i. engine and Torqueflite automatic transmission. Optional engines were the 440- Six Pack and 426 Hemi. (Hemi History) The usual heavy duty suspension, drum brakes and bucket seats were standard equipment. The R/T came with a blacked-out hood bulge and side tape treatment and two unique vertical tape stripes on each door. The vertical stripes were supposed to simulate side scoops. The Ramcharger functional hood scoop was optional equipment, but standard with the 426 Hemi engine. (sound of a Hemi)
Because the Coronet line was consolidated, the Super Bee (Super Bee History) was no longer available as part of the Coronet line. Instead, in its last year, the Super Bee became a separate Charger model. Similar in styling to the R/T, the Super Bee came with a blacked out hood treatment that incorporated a large, round Super Bee decal. The Super Bee also got the same side stripes but without the two door stripes. In the interior, the Super Bee came with a front bench seat but buckets were optional.
The 1971 Charger got a totally new body, with ventless side windows, concealed windshield wipers and a semi-fastback roof design. Although the Charger looked longer than before, it was actually shorter by two inches - but it was wider. Breaking with the past, the Charger now sported a split front bumper design. It was the last year for the true high performance Charger as all the high performance engines were dropped in 1972.
Color keyed bumpers were optional on both the R/T and Super Bee as were front and rear spoilers.
426 Hemi production consisted of 22 Super Bees (13 w/Torqueflite & 9 w/four-speed) and 63 R/Ts (33 w/Torqueflite & 30 w/four-speed).
In terms of Super Bee collectibility, the most valuable are the Hemi cars. But this is true with all Chrysler cars. The next most valuable are the 440 Six pack cars. (sound of a 440) Whether it's a four-speed or automatic is really a personal preference. Individual tastes always plays a role in value. Me, I dig these two '71, 383 Super Bee's.
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