The ’72 Dodge Challenger That Launched RallyeRestorations | Brian Myers' Build Story

It all started back in 2020, during my first year at Ferris State University in the automotive program. Like any dedicated student (who also had a passion for cars), I spent more time scrolling through Facebook Marketplace than doing homework. That’s when I came across the Challenger. The price was right, and I knew I had to have it. So, I skipped class, drove all the way to Detroit, and picked up my first project car at just 18 years old. Little did I know, this car would ignite a lifelong passion and change the course of my life.

 

Over the next few years, I poured all my free time—and money—into the car. I was constantly driving it, breaking it, fixing it, and evolving it. I tackled everything from rebuilding the engine and rewiring the entire car, to refreshing the suspension and handling rust and frame repairs. This car has been through it all.

 

At some point, I had the idea to start a social media page to document my progress—not just to keep track for myself, but to share the journey with others. I quickly realized that people loved following along and learning with me, and the page started to grow. That’s when the vision really began to take shape.

 

While finishing school, I had the privilege of attending SEMA several times as a student. It was there that things started to feel real. I began networking, promoting myself and my build, and forming partnerships with brands that believed in what I was doing. I realized this was more than just a hobby or a “silly Instagram account.”

 

At the start of 2025, I officially launched RallyeRestorations, turning my passion into a business. We’ve already got several customer builds lined up—and it all started with the Challenger. And trust me, the Challenger’s journey is far from over.

 

Just this past winter, I completed a TKX 5-speed swap (after blowing up the old 4-speed last fall—oops) and rebuilt the rear end. Most recently, I upgraded to rear disc brakes from LEED Brakes. After years of drag racing, I’m pushing myself in a new direction with road course and autocross events this summer. Swapping out the old drum brakes was a top priority for that reason.

 

I’ve only put a few miles on the new setup so far, but the real test will be the Hot Rod Power Tour this June. This car will never truly be “finished,” and I’ll never sell it. It’s where it all began—and it’s how I learned to build cars.