The good ole Challenger turns 40-ish this year. Well, it’s not quite that simple for the Challenger it was first built 40-years ago but hasn’t been constantly produced. Whatever the case, Chrysler has released a photo-run-through of the model’s rich history.

The first generation Challenger had a production run from 1970-74, this Challenger was offered with an inline six-cylinder and many choices of V8. The 8-cylinder options ranged from a 318 cubic inch unit making 230 horsepower to the 425-horse 426 Hemi and then the 390-horsepower 440 (output numbers lowered because of the oil crisis). After the ’74 model year Challenger production stopped, with around 188,000 units sold.

The second-generation Challenger arrived four years later in 1978. Unlike the original E-body Barracuda twin, this model was watered down and based on a Mitsubishi with a pitiful 77-horsepower 1.6 liter inline-four or an optional 105-horsepower 2.6 litre I4.

Finally, the third generation is currently selling over in the States, it debuted in 2006 as a concept and hit the streets as a 2008 model. Back to the original ways, this Challenger is available with a six-cylinder or optional V8s, unique colors, and a various factory accessories. The top end hero model is currently the SRT with a 425-horsepower 6.1 litre Hemi.

It’s been a broken and wild ride for the Dodge Challenger, check out the images in the gallery below to see how it played out.