Special Report: Chrysler Group's SRT Division Unleashes 2,740 Horsepower on the Racetrack

Like an athlete, an engine will perform better if it can breathe easier. To achieve this result the SRT engineers added new

I felt that the Magnum SRT8 was a bit nicer to carve out the really tight curves with, due to a slightly stiffer suspension setup. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

high-flow cylinder heads, with larger diameter valves combined with reshaped cylinder ports, and a redesigned intake manifold with larger diameter runners for higher-speed tuning. The result of the SRT division's work is a quicker turning, much more powerful engine featuring a compression ratio that increases from 9.6:1 to 10.3:1.

Finally, seriously "hot" exhaust headers that feature "individual tubes encased in a stainless steel shell" were added. Engine exhaust pipe will leave the back of the car via new larger diameter, 2.75-inch compared to 2.5-inch, tailpipes finished off with two fat 3.5-inch chrome tips.

The look is sensational, but the throaty sound is even more enticing. The effect from a standing start, however, is better than all of the above. The 300C SRT8 charges from standstill with a rush of power that seems otherworldly, in comparison to any other car in its class. Truly, only stratospherically priced

There are a few automakers that dreamed up concept vehicles to wow show goers in Detroit, but none except Dodge dared build their 500+ horsepower pickups. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

Audi RS6s, BMW M5s, Mercedes-Benz E55 AMGs, and I suppose, new STS-Vs can compete.

Giving the 300C SRT8 even greater credibility is its handling prowess. Of course, the car's substantial mass can still be felt when throwing it into a 90 degree corner, but it's reaction is wonderfully predictable due to a touch of oversteer and a little dab of stability control if things get too out of hand.

I felt that the Magnum SRT8 was a bit nicer to carve out the really tight curves with, due to a slightly stiffer suspension setup. It's the most insanely fast wagon I've ever experienced, something so crazy only the bad boys at Chrysler Group could dream it up.