COPO VALUES IN GENERAL

[tom406]

Boss 429's are right in the thick of this debate, with production of 1358 (859/499-69/70), a big special motor and an iconic bodystyle. All 4speeds so we don't have to worry about that variable. They're currently in this price structure as well, with $150K buying a good car without a lot of needs, but likely with a NOM block and in a common color (White or Grabber Blue). $200K+ for killer cars with original engines, and to get beyond that you probably would have to have a time capsule black or red S-motor (so-called NASCAR spec motor the first 272 cars had) car with perfect history.

Though I agree that the market drives these similar cars to similar levels, I bristle a bit when people try to formulate equations based upon production and horsepower ratings. Boss 302's and '69 Z/28's shouldn't be valuable with these criteria. Less than 300 advertised hp and 20K production do not equate with $50K-$100K examples. Just demand and supply.

And people have to like the cars. Copos, Bosses, and Cudas are pretty cars. Hemi Darts are awesome, but not pretty, and not practical to even hit a cruise night in.

Finally, IMO you have to forgive a LOT about E-bodies to step up and pay the big money. I loved looking at these cars since I was a kid. Wanted a Challenger since I first saw Kowalski popping pills and burning rubber on a midnight showing of Vanishing Point. Finally got my first drive (in a RED 440 6 PACK, no less) in '93. I was very disappointed The doors that rattle for 5 seconds after you close them, the interior made out of too few pieces of molded plastic, etc. I've never gotten over it. I'll probably never own a 70/71 Cuda or Challenger because of my failure to allow great style and killer drivetrains to overcome the rest of it. (No offense to E body owners. You have beautiful cars. I just won't be buying them )