The Dodge Challenger On Steroids
Blogs, car shows have been hyping up the tenet Dodge Challenger to the point at which you would think the auto is nearly prepared to roll off a DCX production line. To assert that the prototype is being well received is an understatement — quite honestly if the Challenger was available for sale today the list would be many months long. Such is the clamor for a retro vehicle that takes its styling cues right from the ‘71 Challenger.
As it now stands, the car will be built as DaimlerChrysler has given its blessing to the new Challenger. Still, the Challenger is more than 3 years from being manufactured as it is certain to be released some time during 2009 as a 2010 model. Yes, the wait will be hard for most but if the hype equals the performance, then the wait will certainly be worth your while.
Some folk are against the whole retro vehicle revolution. Citing that Detroit must reach back in time to make relevant cars is an affidavit to the each automaker’s woes. On the contrary, I suspect the many revived models now being planned or already on our streets is a clear affidavit to Detroit finally listening to its customers: we need vehicles that are uniquely styled and we’d like them to perform precisely the way you may say they’re going to perform. No fake hood scoops, no heralded model name slapped on a car that pales compared to the first. No, we don’t want you to build the first model we need you to build the original model better. Take the styling cues and run with them and incorporate modern technology to improve on the original design. That is all we ask.
So, just what can enthusiasts expect when they take delivery of their Challenger? Well, like I announced the car is still in the planning stages, but what I have gleaned from assorted sites is the following information:
Modified Platform — If you like the Mercedes based LX platform now used to run the Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, and Dodge Charger then the LY platform will suit you too. DCX is intending to change the LX platform for its next generation of autos and the LY based Challenger will be one of many autos built on it. Some have advised the LY will be the LX on steroids, whatever that means.
Did Someone Say Hemi? — Every Mopar product of importance will have optional Hemi power and the Challenger is not an exception. Expect a V6 to be standard with the optional Hemi V8 for performance versions of the auto. Some have suggested the the 425 h.p. SRT 6.1L V8 will also be made available for the Challenger.
Ragtop Regalia — Chrysler asserts the Sebring will be its only convertible offering, but that leaves Dodge dealers without a soft top car to market [other than the Viper, of course]. Despite this bit of info, look for a Challenger convertible to show up 1 or 2 years after the car’s debut. Heck, if DCX does not want to build one then O.E.M coach builders will do the job for them. You can bet that Dodge dealers will make these arrangements if DCX doesn’t.
Yes, the Challenger won’t be in new car showrooms any time shortly. For those among us waiting with “baited breath” we’re going to have to console ourselves with the numerous blogs, sites, and auto shows hyping the car. Apart from that, just imagine your shiny new Challenger stopped at a traffic light with a Mustang on one side and a Camaro on the other side….
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