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Dodge Challenger a Concept Car With a Retro Look
By Performance Guru | August 18, 2009
Blogs, automobile sites, and car sites, and automobile have been hyping up the tenet Dodge Challenger to the point where you would think the automobile is nearly prepared to roll off of a DCX line. To claim that the prototype is being well received is an understatement — quite overtly if the Challenger was available for sale today the waiting list would be many months long. Such is the requirement for a retro automobile that takes its styling cues right from the ‘71 Challenger.
As it now stands, the vehicle 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 a little 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 actually be worth your while.
Some folks are against the entire retro automobile revolution. Referencing that Detroit must reach back in time to make important vehicles is a testimony to the each automaker’s woes. On the contrary, I believe the various revived models now being planned or already on our streets is a clear testimony to Detroit finally listening to its patrons : we want cars that are uniquely styled and we want them to perform exactly the way you may say they will perform. No fake hood scoops, no heralded model name slapped on an auto that pales in comparison to the original. No, we don’t want you to build the first model we would like 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 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 planning to change the LX platform for its next generation of vehicles and the LY based Challenger will be one of many autos 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 suggested that the 425 h.p. SRT 6.1L V8 will also be made available for the Challenger.
Ragtop Regalia — Chrysler says that 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 one or two years after the automobile’s debut. Heck, if DCX doesn’t 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 automobile showrooms any time shortly. For those of us waiting with “baited breath” we’ll have to console ourselves with the various blogs, sites, and auto shows hyping the car. Apart from that, imagine your glossy new Challenger stopped at a traffic light with a Mustang on one side and a Camaro on the other side….
For more reviews about sports cars, visit thesupercars.org and while you are at it, you might also want to have a look at pre owned Dodge.
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