Blogs, automobile sites, and car sites, and automobile have been hyping up the postulate Dodge Challenger to the point at which you would think the automobile is nearly prepared to roll off a DCX 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 3 years from being manufactured as it is likely to be released a little 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 definitely be worth your while.
Some folk are against the whole retro auto revolution. Referencing that Detroit must reach back in time to make relevant cars is an affidavit to the each automaker’s troubles. To the contrary, I think the many revived models currently being planned or already on our streets is a clear affidavit to Detroit eventually 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 will 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 original 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 first design. That is all we ask.
So, just what can fans 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 varied 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 preparing to change the LX platform for its next generation of autos and the LY based Challenger will be one of many cars built upon it. Some have suggested that the LY will be the LX on steroids, whatever that means.
Did Someone Say Hemi? — Each 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 car. Some have advised 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]. Notwithstanding this bit of information, look for a Challenger convertible to turn up 1 or 2 years after the automobile’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 won’t be in new car showrooms any time shortly. For those among us waiting with “baited breath” we’ll have to console ourselves with the numerous blogs, sites, and car shows hyping the car. Other than that, try to imagine your shiny new Challenger stopped at a traffic light with a Mustang on one side and a Camaro on the other side….
If you can have any car in the world, what would it be? Visit thesupercars.org for information and specs on the greatest cars in the world, also take a look at used Dodge.
