August 22nd, 2009

Blogs, automobile sites, and car sites, and automobile have been hyping up the concept Dodge Challenger to the point where you would think the auto is almost ready to roll off of a DCX production line. To say that the prototype is being well received is an understatement — quite honestly if the Challenger was available for sale today the waiting list would be many months long. Such is the demand 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 three years from being made as it is certain to be released some time during 2009 as a 2010 model. Yes, the wait will be hard for many, but if the hype equals the performance, then the wait will actually be worth your while.

Some folks are against the entire retro vehicle revolution. Mentioning that Detroit must reach back in time to make important vehicles is a sworn statement to the each automaker’s problems. To the contrary, I suspect the various revived models now being planned or already on our streets is a clear testimony to Detroit eventually listening to its customers: we need vehicles that are uniquely styled and we would like them to perform precisely the way you will say they’ll perform. No fake hood scoops, no heralded model name slapped on an auto that pales compared to the original. No, we don’t want you to build the first model we need you to build the first 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 fans expect when they take delivery of their Challenger? Well, like I said the automobile 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 currently used to run the Chrysler three hundred, Dodge Magnum, and Dodge Charger then the LY platform will suit you too. DCX is preparing to tweak the LX platform for its next generation of vehicles and the LY based Challenger will be one of many vehicles built upon it. Some have suggested that 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 no exception. Expect a V6 to be standard with the optional Hemi V8 for performance versions of the car. Some have advised the 425 h.p. SRT 6.1L V8 will also be supplied for the Challenger.

Ragtop Regalia — Chrysler asserts the Sebring will be its only convertible offering, but that leaves Dodge dealers without a soft top vehicle to market [other than the Viper, of course]. Despite this bit of information, look for a Challenger convertible to turn up one or two years after the car’s debut. Heck, if DCX doesn’t want to build one then OEM coach builders will do the job for them. You can bet that Dodge dealers will make these agreements if DCX doesn’t.

Yes, the Challenger will not be in new automobile showrooms any time shortly. For those among us waiting with “baited breath” we’ll have to console ourselves with the numerous blogs, sites, and auto shows hyping the car. Other than that, try to imagine your glossy new Challenger stopped at a traffic light with a Mustang on one side and a Camaro on the other side….

If you find this article interesting, you should also check out thesupercars.org to read about some of the fastest & most expensive sports cars in the world, also visit used cars Dodge.

Share and Enjoy:

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Recent News

Categories

Archives

Meta: