The Dodge Challenger Hot or Not

Blogs, automobile sites, and car sites, and auto shows have been hyping up the tenet Dodge Challenger to the point at which you would think the automobile is sort of prepared to roll off of 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 waiting list would be many months long. Such is the requirement for a retro car that takes its styling cues right from the ‘71 Challenger.

As it now stands, the auto 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 likely 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 people are against the whole retro automobile 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 think the many revived models now being planned or already on our streets is a clear testimony to Detroit finally listening to its customers: we want cars that are uniquely styled and we would like them to perform exactly the way you may say they’re going to perform. No fake hood scoops, no heralded model name slapped on a vehicle that pales compared to the original. No, we don’t want you to build the first model we want you to build the first model better. Take the styling cues and run with them and incorporate modern technology to boost on the original design. That’s all we ask.

So, just what can enthusiasts expect when they take delivery of their Challenger? Well, like I claimed the automobile is still in the planning stages, but what I have gleaned from various sites is the following information:

Modified Platform — If you like the Mercedes based LX platform currently used to run the Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, and Dodge Charger then the LY platform will suit you too. DCX is planning to tweak the LX platform for its next generation of autos and the LY based Challenger will be one of many cars built on it. Some have advised the LY will be the LX on steroids, whatever that means.

Did Somebody Say Hemi? — Every Mopar product of significance 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 advised the 425 h.p. SRT 6.1L V8 will also be made available for the Challenger.

Ragtop Regalia — Chrysler asserts that the Sebring will be its only convertible offering, but that leaves Dodge dealers without a soft top car to market [other than the Snake , of course]. In spite of this bit of information, look for a Challenger convertible to turn up one or two years after the car’s debut. Heck, if DCX does not want to build one then aftermarket 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 automobile showrooms shortly. For those of us waiting with “baited breath” we must console ourselves with the many blogs, sites, and car shows hyping the car. Apart from that, try and 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 Challenger.