Dodge Challenger SRT8: Quick Test

The retro muscle car trend is in full swing, launched by the current-generation Ford Mustang and Chevrolet soon to weigh in with a new Camaro.

Chrysler trailed Ford but beat GM to market with a very worthy competitor - the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, a striking 21st century re-mix and nostalgic nod to an icon of Mopar Muscle: the original 1970 Dodge Challenger.

While all three - Mustang, Challenger and Camaro - draw inspiration from their predecessors, the Dodge holds most true to its past. All the important muscle car ingredients are there: mega horsepower, purity of form, aggressive full-width air intake and the signature styling "thrust line," with front air dam, rear spoiler, mirrors and even a gas cap inspired by the SCCA Trans-Am racing Challengers of the early 1970s.

And then there's the hemi: The word alone is enough to give you goose bumps if you know your muscle car history. Though overused of late by the Chrysler marketing department, "hemi" still means something special.

In the case of the new Challenger, HEMI means truly BAD-ASS: The 6.1-liter Hemi V8 is the same engine we've seen in the other SRT8 products, producing 425 hp and 420 lb ft of torque. Here it delivers 0-60 in less than five seconds and the quarter-mile in the low 13s.

Drag racing was popular back in the day because the original muscle cars couldn't corner well. Despite its bulky 4,180 lbs, the new-generation Challenger corners very well, all credit to a modern five-link independent rear suspension.

With a top speed of nearly 170 mph, the Challenger certainly has the get-up-and-go. And when you have to haul it all down, the Brembo brakes with their signature red calipers do a great job of slowing things down.

For now, the Challenger is saddled with Chrysler's plain Jane AutoStick 5-speed automatic. Next year, with a new six-speed manual transmission option, buyers will get a pistol-grip shifter similar to the original 1970 Challenger's.

Now if we can only convince Chrysler to bring back some of the original paint: "Plum Crazy," the toxic green "Sub Lime" or maybe the orange "Go-Mango!"

Sharing Chrysler's LX platform with the four-door Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger, the '08 Challenger dwarfs the 1970 original in length, height and weight.

Heavy, yes, but a big sturdy platform has its advantages: the Challenger has tons of headroom, a huge trunk and a useable back seat unique in the retro-muscle-car class.

What this car is all about is power, image and nostalgia, taking us back to a time when gasoline was cheap and horsepower was king.

For those who can still afford to re-live those Mopar glory days, this is your ride.

Watch the video
Read Part 1: Design
Read Part 2: Interior & User Experience
Read Part 3: Performance

Dodge Challenger SRT8

Performance
- Acceleration: 6.1 liter SRT motor never disappoints - great traction and acceleration, but not enough noise
- Handling: Given its weight, pretty impressive - other SRT8 models handle better though
- Braking: Effective retardation, but repeated hard use will see the pedal go soft and stopping distances grow

Design
- Exterior: Awesome modern interpretation of the original with great, authentic detailing - but it's massive...
- Interior: Chrysler had to save money somewhere - seats and alcantara trim help make it feel a bit special

Utility
- Comfort: Great big seats, tons of headroom, and a HUGE trunk - softer suspension setup than other SRT8 products results in comfortable ride
- Space: Massive exterior means massive interior (for a coupe) - usable back seat is unique in the retro-muscle car class

Safety
- Dynamics: It's over two tons, but it still has enough agility for accident avoidance maneuvers
- Technology: Airbags for both passengers as well as side curtain airbags - plus physics are on your side

Value
- Price: Right in line with other top-end retro muscle cars
- Mileage: Come on... it has a HEMI! (so not great)

Emotional Appeal
- Heart thumpin' factor: If you used to dream about the original, this one will have your heart at the limiter
- Fun to spank: Reluctant AutoStick aside, it's a kick-ass ride that invites you to drive like a rebellious teenager

SPECIFICATIONS

Layout: Front engine / Rear wheel drive
Engine: 6.1 liter, OHV V8
Power (SAE): 425 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque: 420 lbs-ft @ 4800 rpm
Redline: 6250 rpm
Gearbox: 5 speed automatic
Curb Weight: 4180 lbs.
0-60 mph: 4.7 sec.
1/4 mile: 13.3 sec.
Top Speed: 170 mph
Mileage: 13 city / 18 highway
Base Price: $40,158
Competitors: Ford Mustang GT500, Chevrolet Camaro, 1970 Dodge Challenger?