Dodge Challenger
This all-new muscle car is a partial homage to the classic Challenger coupe of the 1970s. Designed to offer affordable performance to those on a budget, the original ‘pony cars’ of the late 1960s and early ’70s featured large displacement engines, rear-wheel drive and a beefy racing setup. It was arguably Ford that started the retro trend: although never out of production, in 2004 the fifth generation ‘Stang was an unmistakable re-creation of the classic 1960s model.
After unveiling the concept at Detroit in 2006, Dodge was so overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response that the car was green lighted for production in an initial run of 6,400 high performance SRT8 units. Using excess capacity in the Brampton, Ontario plant in Canada, up to 30,000 should be produced annually in multiple guises.
The Challenger sits on the company’s LX platform, shortened from use for the Charger, and which itself is based on the Chrysler 300C platform. To maintain high demand, Dodge has released the SRT (Street and Racing Technology) version first, with the larger engine and boosted performance levels. Powered by a 6.1-litre HEMI V-8, the SRT-8 Challenger can claim 425bhp and 380Nm of torque to play with. The SRT8 is only offered with an automatic transmission, although in 2009 the R/T version sporting a 5.7-litre engine will be available with 5-speed stick shift.
In common with most modern cars, the Challenger could probably do with going on a diet. Thankfully that huge HEMI is able to overcome the sizable kerb weight of 1878kg. However, as you’d expect, the performance figures are impressive, including a 0-62mph time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 174mph. Yin to that Yang, Challenger drivers will pay at the pump, thanks to a combined fuel consumption figure of only 22.5mpg.
Dodge will offer the limited-edition 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 in three colors: HEMI Orange, Bright Silver Metallic and Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat. Each two-door, rear-wheel-drive coupe will be produced with a numbered dash plaque, and carbon fibre-like hood stripes.
With the British Pound so strong and with a U.S. Manufacturer’s MSRP of $37,995, the Challenger outwardly seems like a performance bargain. However, the car will not be sold in the UK, nor available in right-hand drive, so this is one pony that seems likely to stay in the stable.
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