Back in January, we gave you a sneak peek of a project that Goodguys Rod and Custom Association had underway: a ’71 HEMI Challenger that they plan to give away to a lucky winner this year at the 15th Southwest Nationals held in Scottsdale, Arizona, November 16-18.

According to the official rules on the Goodguys web site, the final drawing should occur by November 18, 2012. There will be one finalist chosen randomly from on-line entries, one finalist chosen randomly from member participation, and 20 contest finalists that had their Sunday Lucky Ticket drawn. From these 22 finalists, only one winner will be given the keys to this awesome Challenger.

The Challenger’s design was selected from 18 contest entries, and Steve Stanford’s winning design was chosen in January, 2011. Steve, a veteran illustrator and designer, works at Custom Rod Garage, designing street rods and custom cars. The rendering, seen above, was based on Don Carlton’s legendary Motown Missile from early 70’s drag racing.

RPM Hot Rods was tasked with making this rendering come to life, and after 16 months it has finally left the pages and hit the ground, ready for some lucky winner to take it ballistic. If you can’t make it to any of the shows to register and participate, you can enter on line at the Goodguys site.

The Challenger features a Roadster Shop chassis with independent suspension all around, and Ridetech coilover shocks. Goodmark Industries supplied the fenders and decklid, and Michelin meats are wrapped around Billet Specialties wheels. The 426 HEMI was prepped by Indy Cylinder Heads and a Tremec transmission will b e tasked with getting the ponies to the rear end.

Inside features include a “Vintage Air A/C, Kicker audio system and a trick, sporty interior”, according to Goodguys Communications Director John Drummond. John says, “The Missile will be on display at all remaining 2012 national events so make sure and stop by the Goodguys big rig for an up close look!”.

Goodguys has about 20 events throughout the year. And while the event caters to American cars built prior to 1973, many of the events include Super Sunday, a Get Together where you can participate with any American built or powered vehicle.

Who knows, maybe one day you can take your new car, the Goodguys Missile, to Super Sunday and show them what you can do on the autocross course. But you know what they say about winning – you can’t win if you don’t enter, so get your entry filled out if you want to win!