CHARLOTTE, N.C. – RK Motors — restorers, sellers and builders of classic, muscle and high-performance cars — has begun a significant restoration of the last 426-cid Hemi V-8 car to roll off any Chrysler production line during the original muscle car era. The legendary Hemi-equipped 1971 Dodge Charger R/T will undergo a nut-and-bolt restoration in the hands of RK Motors’ restoration team in Mentor, Ohio. Sponsored by NAPA Auto Parts and Passport Transport, the completed project will be unveiled at the Mega Mopar Action Show on Sept. 22-23 at Virginia Motorsports Park.
“Our team is honored to restore such a significant piece of automotive history,” said Joe Carroll, president and CEO of RK Motors Charlotte. “The current owner wants his Hemi to leave our facility in factory-fresh condition. We’re committed to exceeding those expectations. With decades of combined professional experience, there isn’t a better restoration shop in the country to handle such a special project.”
The story of this ’71 Dodge Charger R/T Hemi starts at Glavic Dodge in Wickliffe, Ohio. A customer special-ordered the Hemi from Chrysler’s Lynch Road assembly plant in Detroit.
Years later, 14-year-old Joe Angelucci spotted the Hemi languishing in a garage and immediately fell in love with it. After years of trying to buy it, Angelucci finally was able to own his dream vehicle in 1991.
“This Hemi is a legend,” noted Angelucci. “Its historical significance has made it very exciting to own and enjoy. When I was searching for a restoration team to bring this incredible piece of machinery back to life, there was no question. RK Motors will do an exceptional job because the staff truly cares about automobiles and are passionate enthusiasts like me. The last Hemi will be re-built exactly as it would have rolled off the assembly line in 1971. This time it will be hand-built, not assembly-line built, and come with every Hemi sticker and badge available for authenticity.”
The white Charger R/T includes two well-preserved broadcast sheets and fender tag. These prove that it was the last Hemi car built by Chrysler, as it was built a full two weeks after the nearest late 1971 Hemi car.
To follow the restoration, muscle car enthusiasts can visit TheLastHEMI.com or watch “Cruise-In” TV show, seen on Fox Sports Ohio and Comcast SportsNet Mid-Atlantic. All 20 episodes will feature a segment on “The Last HEMI” project, following it from beginning to end.
For more about RK Motors Charlotte, its restoration shop or the vehicles available in its inventory, visit www.rkmotorscharlotte.com or call 704-596-5211.
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