The R/T version starts out at $34,995, which places it just under half way up the Challenger price scale, but together with the 5.7L Hemi, you also get the choice of a wonderfully slick 6 speed box (a must on any true muscle car) or a 5 speed automatic transmission. It also boasts a few extra features like leather seat facings, dual bright chrome exhaust tips, and a Boston acoustics sound system.
The R/T version also has up-rated steering and suspension, an anti-spin rear differential, performance brakes, and heated seats. Another item worth mentioning is the beautifully crafted pistol grip shifter knob, which gives a real performance feel to the gear changes, and don't worry if it's been a few years since you drove a standard because Hill Start Assist is also included.
All in all, I believe that the R/T version of the Challenger offers the best value for money of the entire range. Yes, you can get into the same shape car for less, and you can also get one which performs a little better, but do the pro and con list and I think that you'll find that the R/T comes out on top!
The Challenger SRT
We now come to the ultimate performance model and the one that will no doubt encourage the sale of the others, the Challenger SRT. This version boasts a 6.1L V8 Hemi which supplies a whopping 425hp and can reach 60mph from a standing start in less than 5 seconds. Yes, you read that right! Under 5 seconds, and this from a car which costs less than $46k Welcome to the new muscle car era!
Available in a 6 speed manual, or a 5 speed automatic transmission, the SRT receives a special high-performance suspension setup, performance tuned steering, and 20 inch wheels as standard. It should also be noted that Dodge decided to use world renowned Brembo performance brakes on this model, a wise choice considering the startling capabilities of the SRT.
Speaking of performance, the SRT also carries a clever little device which records such things as 0-60 times, braking distances, 1/4 mile and 1/8 mile timers, and even has a g-force meter built in to it. Now you can actually prove to your passenger how quick your Challenger SRT is. As if the hairs standing on their heads wouldn't have told you that!
Conclusion
Simply put...I love the new Challenger lineup, and I would be proud to have any of them parked in my driveway.
I believe that the company deserves a huge pat on the back for bringing enthusiasm back the car buying public. For years we have driven around in aerodynamic jelly beans, now we have head turners available to suit everyone's pocket, not just the wealthy.
The R/T version also has up-rated steering and suspension, an anti-spin rear differential, performance brakes, and heated seats. Another item worth mentioning is the beautifully crafted pistol grip shifter knob, which gives a real performance feel to the gear changes, and don't worry if it's been a few years since you drove a standard because Hill Start Assist is also included.
All in all, I believe that the R/T version of the Challenger offers the best value for money of the entire range. Yes, you can get into the same shape car for less, and you can also get one which performs a little better, but do the pro and con list and I think that you'll find that the R/T comes out on top!
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| Dodge Challenger SRT8 |
The Challenger SRT
We now come to the ultimate performance model and the one that will no doubt encourage the sale of the others, the Challenger SRT. This version boasts a 6.1L V8 Hemi which supplies a whopping 425hp and can reach 60mph from a standing start in less than 5 seconds. Yes, you read that right! Under 5 seconds, and this from a car which costs less than $46k Welcome to the new muscle car era!
Available in a 6 speed manual, or a 5 speed automatic transmission, the SRT receives a special high-performance suspension setup, performance tuned steering, and 20 inch wheels as standard. It should also be noted that Dodge decided to use world renowned Brembo performance brakes on this model, a wise choice considering the startling capabilities of the SRT.
Speaking of performance, the SRT also carries a clever little device which records such things as 0-60 times, braking distances, 1/4 mile and 1/8 mile timers, and even has a g-force meter built in to it. Now you can actually prove to your passenger how quick your Challenger SRT is. As if the hairs standing on their heads wouldn't have told you that!
Conclusion
Simply put...I love the new Challenger lineup, and I would be proud to have any of them parked in my driveway.
I believe that the company deserves a huge pat on the back for bringing enthusiasm back the car buying public. For years we have driven around in aerodynamic jelly beans, now we have head turners available to suit everyone's pocket, not just the wealthy.
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| Dodge has pulled out all the stops on this one and has presented us with the almost perfect re-creation of the All American Muscle Car. |