Dodge Challenger a Concept Car With a Retro Look
Blogs, car sites, and automobile have been hyping up the concept Dodge Challenger to the point where you would think that the car is sort of prepared to roll off 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 list would be many months long. Such is the requirement for a retro car 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 made as it is likely to be released some 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 certainly be worth your while.
Some folk are against the whole retro car revolution. Mentioning that Detroit must reach back in time to make important autos is a sworn statement to the each automaker’s troubles. To the contrary, I think the many revived models now being planned or already on our streets is a clear affidavit to Detroit eventually listening to its patrons : we want cars 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 in comparison to the original. No, we do not need 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 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 announced the car 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 now used to run the Chrysler three hundred, Dodge Magnum, and Dodge Charger then the LY platform will suit you too. DCX is planning to modify the LX platform for its next generation of automobiles and the LY based Challenger will be one of many vehicles built on 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 auto. Some have suggested the the 425 h.p. SRT 6.1L V8 will also be supplied for the Challenger.
Ragtop Regalia — Chrysler asserts the Sebring will be its only convertible offering, but that leaves Dodge dealers without a soft top vehicle to market [other than the Rattlesnake , of course]. Regardless of this bit of information, look for a Challenger convertible to show up one or two years after the car’s debut. Heck, if DCX does not 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 agreements if DCX doesn’t.
Yes, the Challenger won’t be in new automobile showrooms shortly. For those among us waiting with “baited breath” we’ll have to console ourselves with the various blogs, sites, and car shows hyping the car. Other than that, imagine your glossy new Challenger stopped at a traffic light with a Mustang on one side and a Camaro on the other side….
What is your dream car? Check out some of the fastest and most exotic cars ever built at thesupercars.org and also take a look at Dodge auction.
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