As you probably heard by now, Dodge is bringing back the Challenger. Its been 35 years since the last Challenger was produced. Dodge can’t let Ford have all the American muscle car glory with its Ford Mustangs. Chevy is also coming back with the Chevy Camaro.
The Dodge Challenger SRT-8 will have a 6.1 liter Hemi SMPI V-8 with 425 hp and 420 LB-FT of torque. It will do 0-60 mph in under 5 seconds. The body of the Challenger was really inspired by the original 1970-1974 Dodge Challenger. It will come with 20 inch SRT forged aluminum wheels, Kicker speakers, Leather trimmed seats, and Brembo aluminum 4 piston calibers with 14.2 inch front brake rotors and 13.8 inch rear brake rotors. There are 3 different colors to choose from (Hemi Orange Pearl, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl, or Bright Silver Metallic) with carbon strips on the hood. MSRP starts at $40,095. You can find more specs and pricing on Dodge website.
The Dodge Challenger SRT-8 will be the only model to come out this fall. Next year in 2009 other base models will follow and pricing will start in the low 20’s. These models most likely will have the 250 hp 3.5 liters V6 (probably be SE model) and the midlevel 350 hp 5.7 liter (probably will be badge as an R/T). These will not have the strips on the hood, and the Brembo brakes. There will only be 10,000 of the 2008 Challenger SRT-8 (be sure to pre-order yours now!). The engine is the same as the Chrysler 300C SRT-8 and the Dodge Charger SRT-8. The good news is Dodge will come out with a manual transmission for the SRT-8 and the R/T.
“Martin’s thoughts:”
I personally saw a Dodge Challenger SRT-8 in person. I’ve also seen a 1974 Challenger as well. I have to say that the new Challenger did a great job keeping the same lines and concept of the 1970-74. I have pictures of the Dodge Challenger SRT-8 on the above. I’m not too much into muscle cars as some other guys here at R1 Concepts… but the Challenger really captured my attention. This car will be great for the newer generations to enjoy classic looking muscle car, sound, and power without the hassle of maintaining or rebuilding one. Also great for the old generation to step back in the era but also step into something new as well. In my opinion this car is a win win situation for everyone who buys it.
I’m happy to see these classics coming back to its old roots like how the current 05-08 Ford Mustang did with its new look. You guys better grab up the last of these V8 as lots of changes regarding increased CAFÉ (35 MPG average economy mandated for 2020). Auto makers will need to make cars with higher gas mileage in the near future. But I will talk about that in another blog subject.
R1 Concepts is working hard right now to provide performance brake parts for the Dodge Challenger SRT-8 and the other models. Our performance brake parts for the Chrysler 300, 300C, SRT-8 and the Dodge Charger SXT, RT, SE, SRT-8 were hot sellers. We improved the stopping power with our performance brake rotors and brake pads. We will do the same for the new Dodge Challenger. So stay tuned!