Spotted at Meadowbrook Dodge in Rochester Hills, MI. (Hat tip to Rob!)

Under the skin, the '70 gets custom upper A-arms riding on relocated pickup points, aluminum tie rods, struts with Heim joints, two-inch-drop springs, front and rear way bars, Flowmaster exhaust and Stoptech brakes hiding behind Forgeline wheels riding on a set of Yokohamas. All of it can go back to stock, and we suspect it probably handles a helluva lot better than the wet noodle it started as, but some things should just go undone. Must parts makers always bring the gaudy heat to SEMA? Oh wait, it's SEMA. Press release follows.

NEW MOPAR TRACK BURNERS & SUSPENSION SYSTEMS TO DEBUT AT 2008 HOTCHKIS SEMA BOOTH

Complete High-Performance Handling Systems Now Available for Classic and Modern Dodge Challengers and Other Mopar Muscle Cars

Santa Fe Springs, CA – Hotchkis Performance is set to unveil several new bolt-on Chrysler suspension systems at the upcoming 2008 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Handling expert John Hotchkis and his team of engineers will showcase a full array of Chrysler performance mods on a duo of Mopar muscle cars – a 1970 Challenger T/A and Mr. Norm's Super Cuda: a 2009 Challenger SRT that has been transformed into a hard-charging Barracuda. Both cars will showcase the latest advancements in handling technology.

The 1970 Challenger, codenamed E-MAX, started out as a totally stock '70 Challenger converted by a previous owner to 340 Six-Pack trim. Hotchkis components include new fabricated steel upper a-arms with bolt-in relocation suspension pickup point brackets, fabricated strut rods with Heim joints to eliminate excess front suspension play, bump steer corrected aluminum steering rods with adjustable Heim joint ends, a new balanced front and rear sway bar package, performance springs that lower the car two-inches and fabricated steel subframe connectors for improved rigidity.

These front suspension products create a proper negative camber curve, sufficient positive camber for high speed stability and full bump and droop travel without bumpsteer. Essentially Hotchkis has revised the antiquated front suspension with modern geometry. E-MAX will also feature Stoptech Brakes, Forgeline Wheels, Yokohama Tires, Flowmaster Exhaust, Red Line Oil and engine fluids and power by Optima Batteries. The car will retain its 340 Six Pack powerplant and Hurst Pistol Grip equipped four-speed transmission.

For nearly two decades, Hotchkis Performance has been making muscle and sports cars faster on the track and more fun to drive on the street. The Hotchkis philosophy of engineering bolt-on, no-cutting required performance parts that have been thoroughly track tested and race proven means enthusiasts can modify their car for a dramatically improved, grin-inducing driving experience without permanently altering their car. Simply stash your old parts in the garage, bolt-on a Hotchkis Sport Suspension system and hit the gas. If you ever want to bring your ride back to factory stock, simply pull the old parts out of storage and you're good to go.

"Mr. Norm" Kraus, who rose to fame as the proprietor of Grand Spaulding Dodge and a drag racing icon, will also be talking to fans and signing autographs in the Hotchkis booth from 2:00 – 3:00pm Wednesday, November 5th at the SEMA Show.

[Hotchkis]

The 2009 model year takes the Challenger from a low-volume quasi-halo muscle car to a full lineup of three separate trim levels, each with their own engine flavor. The base model SE starts at $21,995, getting a 3.5-liter High Ouput V6 producing 250 HP and an equal number of lb-ft of torque. The top model's still the SRT8, at a starting price of $39,995 and powered by the reliable and huge 6.1-liter Hemi V8 with 425 HP and 420 lb-ft of torque. The middle-of-the-pack R/T hits the showroom floor at a starting price of $29,995 and comes with the 5.7-liter Hemi engine under the hood, producing either 370 HP and 398 lb-ft of torque (when running on premium fuel) or 375 HP and 404 lb-ft of torque, depending on which transmission it's mated to.

Wait, what? Multiple transmissions? Yes muscle car fans, it's what two of these models' engines are mated to that'll give Jalopnik readers cause for celebration. Both the R/T and the SRT8 get an optional Tremec T6060 six-speed manual transmission ported from the Dodge Viper. The option's only available on the Hemi-fied R/T and SRT8 versions, so if you want the V6-powered SE, you'll only end up getting a four-speed automatic. Pity.

The R/T gets another couple of nice features as part of the $995 "Track Pack" manual package — a Hill-start Assist (which was a very nice feature on some of the hills around our drive through New Jersey), a limited-slip differential (the SRT8 gets the LSD standard) and a tuned exhaust system (SRT8 manual gets this as well) that sounds great in the lower gears.

On the road, both the manual Challenger R/T and the Challenger SRT8 felt much more satisfying to drive. Thanks to the auto-only multi-displacement technology, the R/T in both auto-stick and manual transmission models get 16 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The 2009 SRT8 gets the same piss-poor 13 MPG city, 19 MPG highway as the 2008 model, but the manual transmission at least gives you an extra mile in the city and an extra three on the highway thanks to that very helpful sixth gear.

Setting aside the benefits of the manual on the road, it's the track where it really becomes useful. Although the 2008 SRT8's automatic transmission had a +/- gate auto-stick mode, I really felt it to be too gimmicky for anything other than making a businessman feel like he was the big man at a stoplight. It's certainly not a transmission you'll feel comfortable using anywhere other than a drag strip — at least not if you want to keep your dignity and control safely intact. Which is why we were excited to hit the Englishtown track. Thanks to coning designed to keep drivers like me from becoming a smear on a wall, I didn't even get the car out of second or third gear on the track. Unfortunate for me, yes, but quite fortunately for the Challenger's clutch plates.

Still, despite the aggressive coning, the smooth clutch gave me greater confidence, and the pistol-grip shifter available with the "Track Pack" felt more comfortable in my hand than the original 70's it's kinda-sorta modeled after. But, a manual shifter alone doesn't make a track car.

The Challenger's still a fatty, as we found when we scrubbed the front tires on the first too-tight turn at speed around the Englishtown course in the R/T and later on in the course with an SRT8. Thanks to the RWD platform, with the nanny system turned all the way off, you're still able to steer with your right foot, just like the 2008 Challenger SRT8 and every other LX-platformed SRT8 and R/T.

So which of the three, if any, is the right choice for you? Sorry Spinelli, but it's certainly not the SE. The automatic transmission and low horsepower mated to a heavy RWD car ensure this will compete not for our attention, but with Midwestern hairdressers as the car of choice to replace their V6 Mustang.

If you're a muscle car madman needing a 0-to-60 time of five seconds, you'll probably want the SRT8, as Dodge estimates the R/T's time to be somewhere just under six seconds. Sure, you could beat the pants off the SRT8 in a straight-line with a Shelby GT500, but it'll cost you significantly more and I'm not sure it'll take to the track any better.

Still, despite the SRT8's bigger engine, we're not sure the 30% higher sticker price justifies the 10% higher horsepower. In our mind, if you want a modern muscle car, the R/T may be right in the sweet spot. In terms of looks, you'll get the same (maybe more with the double-black hood stripes and functional hood scoop of the "Classic" package) double-takes as its stronger brother, the same horrifyingly plastic interior, and you'll do it for a much cheaper sticker price and an almost 20% higher fuel economy rating.

Either way, whether you choose an R/T or an SRT8, you'll still get a Challenger with a manual transmission. Like we said, 2009's better than 2008 by at least one-third.

For this example, we'll be using the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, but the essential procedure can be applied to any number of slushbox-equipped RWD vehicles. Once you've mastered the technique, feel free to make your own video to show us all what you've learned. If you'd like some examples, check out our Corvette ZR1 burnout video, or this slow-motion Ford Mustang burnout video.

Photo Credit: Alex C. Conley

• 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, Part One
• 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, Part Two
• 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, Part Three

The supercharger package is currently undergoing final tuning at the Vortech facilities and is targeted for sale in August. This one made an appearance at the All-Mopar Nationals last weekend where tipster Adam Geake, owner of HXC Performance, snapped a couple of shots for us. Expect more news from Adam soon, as HXC is working on a 'Cuda version of the Challenger for all those Plymouth fans out there.

Suitability Parameters:
Speed Merchants: Yes
Fashion Victims: Yes
Treehuggers: No
Mack Daddies: Yes
Tuner Crowd: No
Hairdressers: No
Penny Pinchers: No
Euro Snobs: No
Working Stiffs: Yes
Technogeeks: No
Poseurs: Yes
Soccer Moms: No
Nascar Dads: Yes
Golfing Grandparents: No

Also Consider:
• 2008 Ford Mustang GT500
• 2008 Dodge Charger SRT8
• Waiting for the 2010 Chevy Camaro SS
• Waiting for the 2010 Ford Mustang GT500
• Sitting at home and drinking oil straight from a barrel.

Vitals:
• Manufacturer: Dodge
• Make: Challenger SRT8
• Model year: 2008
• Base Price: $37,320
• Price as Tested: $41,310
• Engine type: 6.1-liter SRT HEMI V8
• Horsepower: 425 @ 6,200 RPM
• Torque: 420 @ 4,800 RPM
• Transmission: 5-speed Automatic
• Curb Weight: 4,103 lbs
• LxWxH: 197.7" x 75.7" x 57"
• Wheelbase: 116"
• Tires: 245/45ZR20 - Front; 255/45ZR20 - Rear Performance Tires
• 0 - 60 mph: 5.13 seconds (as tested with onboard 0-to-60 meter)
• EPA Fuel economy city/highway: 13/18 MPG
• NHTSA crash test rating: *****

Also see:
• 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, Part One
• 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, Part Two

Photo Credit: Dane VanSlembrouck

Note to Hoonage-Seeking Readers: We're not done yet. More to come on Monday...

Acceleration: ***
God, I love the built-for-America 6.1-liter Hemi engine. 425 HP and an almost equal amount of torque help make the performance tires on this beast squeal at the green light like it's a drag strip Christmas tree. Still, we're talking about 425 horses under the hood. It should jump harder, faster, stronger. It may have something to do with the 4100+ pounds it's trying to carry along for the ride.

Braking: ****
The big Brembos help this pony "whoa!" with the quickest of ease and you can't ask for much more than that.

Ride: ****
The nice thing about the Challenger is it's on the steady and capable LX platform. Unlike the bone-rattling ride of a Shelby GT500, the Challenger sweeps over the road, requiring a large pothole to even jostle it and taking the very largest to get anywhere near uncomfortable.

Handling: ****
I love to mash the gas around a corner, and there's nothing like feeling that back end sweep outward as I steer with my right foot; the multilink suspension in the back makes that kind of hoonage effortless.

Gearbox: **
Crap. OK, here's the rub with the 2008 Challenger SRT8 — it's automatic only. While it's great for the straight-line racing crowd looking for solid, dependable and always-the-same 0-to-60 times, it's not really great for us. And the +/- gate on the shifter is an annoyance at best. We'll apparently have to wait until the 2009 model year before we'll have a chance to see this car with the gearbox it was always meant to have.

Audio: ***
Our test unit was equipped with MyGig, but the damnable contraption wouldn't recognize our third-gen video iPod. So my "Muscle Car Meltdown" mix had to be played using the aux input rather than the preferred USB jack. Still, the big subwoofer kept pace with the low grumble of the exhaust well enough to make me happy.

Toys: ****
Good god, there's some fun toys in here. Even if you ignore the issues with MyGig, the 1/4 mile, 1/8 mile, G-force and braking meters make up for it in spades. Also, it has heated seats.

Value: ***
The fuel economy is blood-draining-from-the-face bad — 13 MPG city, 18 MPG highway. But with an as-tested sticker price of $41,000 — and reports of $70K+ including the dealer price gouging — if you're buying this car, you shouldn't care less.

Overall: ****
Breathtakingly stunning looks, high horsepower and rear-wheel drive overcome gearbox issues, weight, a mediocre interior, and piss-poor gas mileage any day of the week. Yeah, yeah, I know. On any other vehicle, I'd award three stars, but seriously, it's a 2008 Dodge FREAKIN' Challenger SRT8. Those classic, proportionally sound muscle car looks just feel so good. It's a shame Chrysler didn't build this car much sooner.

Also see:
• 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, Part One

I picked up the Challenger from Chrysler's fleet company in Madison Heights yesterday afternoon. Despite an itch to hit the road immediately, we first needed the obligatory glamour shots taken by Metro Detroit's star photographer Fabrizio Costantini and a quick bite to eat. So it wasn't until late yesterday night when I finally had the chance to take the new Mustang-killer out onto Woodward.

A few hours more doesn't bother someone that's waited three years since their first fleeting glimpse of the Challenger across a crowded Detroit Auto Show press introduction. Still, my excitement was obvious — if anyone had been looking that late at night — as I eased the muscle-bound two-door out on to the road and pointed the LX sedan-sans-two doors onto Northbound Woodward Avenue. I don't even know why I tried to contain my feelings. How can a person not be excited when they're driving a car with sheet metal so brilliantly retrospectively-inspired you're actually able to believe orange can work as a car color again?

Plus there's that power. Despite the Challenger's hefty 4,100 lb. weight, the big 425 HP 6.1-liter Hemi the Challenger SRT8 shares with its bigger, four-doored brother allows it to blast away from stoplights. Each and every time, we were provided with the effortless gratification of squealing performance radials.

But I grew up on Woodward Avenue. I know at night the police lay in wait, watching the stoplights, pens at the ready in eager anticipation of tickets to be signed and handed to unsuspecting hoons careless enough to do burnouts. I had no desire to be stopped tonight. Tonight, the fun for me is cruising my past with a car that's more of a time machine than any DeLorean. I wanted to drive. So I drove.

I drove past the hospital where I was born. Past the Red Coat Tavern, where my mom had once been a bartender and where she'd met my father. Past Vinsetta Garage, Michigan's oldest palace of wrench-turning — and a lot where I'd spent many an evening in my teenage years peering through the chain-link fence, trying to discern the differences between muscle cars by shape under bulky car covers. Past Birmingham, where I'd taken my driver's training and first kissed a girl. Past Cranbrook, my high school arch-rivals. Past Long Lake, and the remnants of the Fox & Hounds grill and across from the Merrill Lynch office my father, now gone, worked at over a decade ago. I drove past old family homes, old restaurants and old memories.

It's a credit to how similarly roomy this new Challenger is to the old early-'70s muscle car that I hardly noticed when I'd pulled around Pontiac and was already heading back to Royal Oak. The strongly side-bolstered seats and comfortable-to-grip steering wheel helped me to pass where I'd begun my trip so effortlessly, I decided to keep going — down all the way to where Woodward Avenue ends at the Detroit River. Not having enough of that low rumbling exhaust, I turned the beast around, rear wheels competently holding on as I steered with my right foot and came right back up Woodward. I did this over and over again last night. Each time, emotions long thought dormant welled up inside of me at every red light and would quickly explode outward on every green.

Gone were any cares of the day. The photos? Meaningless. Writing the review? Means nothing to me. The price of gas and a rating of 18 MPG? Ha! These are little things for little people. I'm a man — a real man driving a brand new meaty Mopar muscle car — something Motor City denizens haven't done in decades. The only thing that matters is continuing to drive.

OK, so it turns out there's one thing that matters more. Exhaustion. I pulled into the garage in the wee hours of this morning feeling emotionally drained, but with a wan smile on my face. Why shouldn't I? I knew I'd get to take it out again this morning. And that's exactly what I did, four hours of sweet sleep later and after waking with that smile from the night before still firmly affixed to my face.

John's boys from Texas are still in the process of tweaking the Challenger, but expect a 0-to-60 mph time in the low four-second or high three-second range, and a quarter-mile time in the sub-12.0 second area. Hennessey only plans to make a limited numbers of their extremest Challenger, so now there's one more hoop to jump through for those who already did the footwork to get an SRT8.

Photo Credit: Matt Hardigree / Jalopnik

[Challengertalk.com]

The SRT8 is obviously the most important unveil with a 425 HP 6.1-liter V8 HEMI that is now available with a manual transmission. The Challenger SE has a 250 HP 3.5-liter V6 HEMI capable of 25 MPG on the highway and a 276 watt Boston Connect sound system. The Challenger R/T has a 370 HP 5.7-liter V8 HEMI that is also available with a track pack that includes a six speed manual transmission and more.

The Car Connection is reporting:

"Chrysler's plans for its large 300/Charger sedans include a major makeover for the 2011 model year. But while Chrysler's new managers have been dropping hints about the future of the HEMI engine, there's not much they can do about the rear-drive layout of the big sedans."

"A switch to front-wheel drive could improve the fuel economy of the sedans, but reports to TCC say that there's no money set aside to make the switch to front-wheel drive."

2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

Overview

All-New 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8®
♣ Iconic Dodge muscle car returns after a 35-year absence
♣ Design stays true to Challenger heritage while delivering a host of modern amenities and "race inspired, street legal" SRT DNA
♣ Powered by a 6.1-liter HEMI® V-8 engine that produces 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque
♣ Each 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 features limited-edition, numbered dash plaque
The return of the iconic Dodge Challenger brings what pony car fanatics crave: ground shaking performance, unmistakable design cues reminiscent of the original Challenger, world-class ride and handling characteristics and benchmark braking. On top of that it features a wide variety of modern amenities and technology designed to delight a new generation of driving enthusiasts.
"The all-new Dodge Challenger SRT8 is engineered to give customers everything they want in a modern muscle machine," said Mike Accavitti, Director - Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing, Chrysler LLC. "The new version of Dodge's American classic boasts tire-smoking performance and head-turning design while offering a wide array of state-of-the-art technology, such as GPS navigation, 'Keyless Go' entry, a MyGIG™ infotainment system and UConnect hands-free communication."
Developed by Chrysler's in-house performance engineering organization, the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 was engineered with a focus on the five pillars of every SRT vehicle: bold exterior design that resonates with the brand image, a race-inspired interior, world-class ride and handling across a dynamic range, a standout powertrain and benchmark braking.
Dodge will offer the limited-edition 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 in three colors: HEMI® Orange, Bright Silver Metallic and Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat. Each two-door, rear-wheel-drive coupe will be produced with a numbered dash plaque, carbon fiberlike hood stripes and will be powered by SRT's 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine that boasts 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque.

With a U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $37,995 (including $675 destination), the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 arrives in Dodge showrooms this spring.
The 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 vehicles will be manufactured at Chrysler's Brampton, Ontario, Canada assembly plant.
Performance targets for the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 include a 0-60 mph time in the low 5-second range, 0-100-0 mph in less than 17 seconds, a ¼-mile elapsed time of less than 14 seconds, 60-0 mph braking distance of approximately 100 feet, and a skid pad performance of 0.88 g.

2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8

Overview

All-New 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8®
♣ Iconic Dodge muscle car returns after a 35-year absence
♣ Design stays true to Challenger heritage while delivering a host of modern amenities and "race inspired, street legal" SRT DNA
♣ Powered by a 6.1-liter HEMI® V-8 engine that produces 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque
♣ Each 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 features limited-edition, numbered dash plaque
The return of the iconic Dodge Challenger brings what pony car fanatics crave: ground shaking performance, unmistakable design cues reminiscent of the original Challenger, world-class ride and handling characteristics and benchmark braking. On top of that it features a wide variety of modern amenities and technology designed to delight a new generation of driving enthusiasts.
"The all-new Dodge Challenger SRT8 is engineered to give customers everything they want in a modern muscle machine," said Mike Accavitti, Director - Dodge Brand and SRT Global Marketing, Chrysler LLC. "The new version of Dodge's American classic boasts tire-smoking performance and head-turning design while offering a wide array of state-of-the-art technology, such as GPS navigation, 'Keyless Go' entry, a MyGIG™ infotainment system and UConnect hands-free communication."
Developed by Chrysler's in-house performance engineering organization, the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 was engineered with a focus on the five pillars of every SRT vehicle: bold exterior design that resonates with the brand image, a race-inspired interior, world-class ride and handling across a dynamic range, a standout powertrain and benchmark braking.
Dodge will offer the limited-edition 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 in three colors: HEMI® Orange, Bright Silver Metallic and Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat. Each two-door, rear-wheel-drive coupe will be produced with a numbered dash plaque, carbon fiberlike hood stripes and will be powered by SRT's 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine that boasts 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque.

With a U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $37,995 (including $675 destination), the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 arrives in Dodge showrooms this spring.
The 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 vehicles will be manufactured at Chrysler's Brampton, Ontario, Canada assembly plant.
Performance targets for the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 include a 0-60 mph time in the low 5-second range, 0-100-0 mph in less than 17 seconds, a ¼-mile elapsed time of less than 14 seconds, 60-0 mph braking distance of approximately 100 feet, and a skid pad performance of 0.88 g.

History

Although the Dodge Challenger was the last entrant in the pony car ranks of Detroit's Big Three, it arrived with something its competitors didn't have: the greatest range of powertrain choices in the industry, from the small but durable 225-cubic-inch "Slant Six" to the fearsome "Elephant Motor" - the 426 HEMI®.
And although it lasted only five model years, the Dodge Challenger became one of the most storied muscle car nameplates in automotive history, with meticulously restored and rare examples today selling for six-figure prices.
1970
The Dodge Challenger made its debut in the fall of 1969 as a 1970 model. While it shared Chrysler's "E-body" short-deck, long-hood platform with the third-generation Plymouth Barracuda, Dodge Challenger's wheelbase was two inches longer, creating more interior space.
The Dodge Challenger was originally offered as either a two-door hardtop or convertible, in base, SE (Special Edition), R/T (Road/Track) and T/A (Trans Am) trim. But it was the range of powertrain choices that was truly remarkable:
• 225-cubic-inch I-6; 145 horsepower
• 318-cubic-inch V-8; 230 horsepower
• 340-cubic-inch V-8; 275 horsepower (290 horsepower in the T/A)
• 383-cubic-inch V-8; 290 horsepower
• 383-cubic-inch V-8; 330 horsepower
• 383-cubic-inch V-8; 335 horsepower
• 426-cubic-inch HEMI V-8; 425 horsepower
• 440-cubic-inch V-8; 375 horsepower
• 440-cubic-inch V-8; 390 horsepower
Driveline choices for various engines included Chrysler's TorqueFlite automatic transmission and a three- or four-speed manual which could be equipped with a Hurst "pistol-grip" shifter. Big-block Challengers could be ordered with a heavy-duty Dana 60 differential equipped with limited-slip differential.
Even the paint schemes said "performance," with colors including Plum Crazy and HEMI® Orange, accented with "bumblebee" stripes. Customers could further customize their cars with twin-scooped hoods, "shaker" hoods and rear deck wings.
Befitting the brand's performance heritage, the Dodge Challenger went racing in its first year. For the street, it was offered in the limited-edition T/A model to meet homologation requirements for Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Trans Am racing. The T/A was one of the first production vehicles to offer different size tires, front and back; E60 x 15 in the front, G60 x 15 in the rear.
In 1970, Sam Posey drove the lone Trans Am racing Challenger, prepared and run by Ray Caldwell's Autodynamics Race Shop. While he didn't win a race in the No. 77 car, Posey finished fourth overall in points.
Drag racers including Dick Landy and Ted Spehar also campaigned Challengers in the National Hot Rod Association's new Pro Stock class. In 1970 and '71, the HEMI-powered Challengers (and Plymouth 'Cudas) virtually ruled the class.
On the big screen, a 1970 Challenger R/T starred in the film Vanishing Point, a high-speed pursuit movie that has become a cult favorite with muscle car fans. The movie was remade for television in 1997. Other 1970 Dodge Challengers have been seen in films including Used Cars, Natural Born Killers and Phantasm I and II; and in television shows including The Mod Squad.
For the 1970 model year, just over 83,000 Dodge Challengers were sold.
1971
In 1971, designers made subtle styling changes to the Dodge Challenger, providing new treatments to the tail lamps and grille. The single tail lamp design from 1970 became two distinct lights for '71, and a new-for-'71 twin-inlet Challenger grille was painted silver on standard models and black on R/Ts. Challenger R/T models also got a set of fiberglass quarter-panel louvers. An additional coupe model with fixed quarter windows was added to the lineup.
As in 1970, a wide range of trim levels, exterior colors and striping options made the Dodge Challenger easy for customers to create a special car. However, for 1971, Dodge dropped the T/A (it was no longer racing in Trans Am), SE models and R/T convertible.
New EPA emission standards led to some powertrain changes; the optional 375-horsepower 440 cubic-inch was eliminated, as was the six pack-equipped 340 cubic-inch powerplant. The 383 cubic-inch Magnum engine was detuned to 300 horsepower by lowering the compression ratio for improved emissions. However, a 390 horsepower six pack 440 V-8 was available, and the 425 horsepower 426 cubic-inch HEMI® still topped the vast engine offerings.
A Dodge Challenger paced the Indianapolis 500 race in 1971. Dodge produced 50 Challenger convertible pace car replicas, all painted HEMI Orange with white tops and interiors.
1972
With escalating insurance rates and new EPA emissions mandates, more changes came to the Dodge Challenger in 1972. Also, SAE revised the Torque and Horsepower rating test from a "Gross" to a "Net" as installed in the cars. This reduced all ratings 20-30 percent, making them non-comparable to previous ratings.
Only three engines were available in the 1972 Dodge Challenger: the 225 cubic-inch Slant Six with 110 horsepower, the 318 cubic-inch V-8 with 150 horsepower and the 340 cubic-inch V-8 with 240 horsepower. All were equipped to use the then-new unleaded fuel.
With convertible sales in steady decline over several years, the 1972 Dodge Challenger was offered in hardtop form only. The sun roof had become a more popular alternative, and was offered as an option for just over $400.
New front-end styling in 1972 featured a larger, "egg-crate" grille. It was painted argent for standard Challengers, and black on the Challenger Rallye performance model, which replaced the R/T. The Challenger's tail lamp design included twin lights on each side, with the center panel painted the same color as the grille. The Rallye model was also equipped with four small scoops on the front fenders.
1973
Beginning in 1973, the federal government mandated new bumper-impact standards that resulted in the only changes to the Dodge Challenger exterior - 5-mph bumpers equipped with large rubber guards that extended out from the bodywork.
Inside, grained vinyl was the only available seating material, but a new instrument-cluster design was part of the Rallye option package. The Rallye was eliminated as a separate model, although customers could create one with options.
Under the hood, the six-cylinder engine was no longer available; the 150 horsepower 318 cubic-inch V-8 was standard, with the 240 horsepower 340 cubic-inch V-8 as the only option.
1974
With insurance rates for performance cars skyrocketing, more safety equipment led the short list of changes for the 1974 model-year Dodge Challengers.
Inside, the lap and shoulder belts were equipped with an inertia reel. In addition, there was a federally mandated seatbelt-ignition interlock, which prevented the car from being started if the driver or passenger didn't buckle up.
The Dodge Challenger offered a different engine option for 1974. With the 318 cubic-inch V-8 still standard, a 360 cubic-inch V-8 producing 245 horsepower replaced the 340 V-8 as the only option.
In April 1974, Challenger production ceased. Over a five-year span, approximately 188,600 Dodge Challengers were sold.
1978-1984
Beginning in 1978 - the year the U.S. Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standard took effect - Dodge offered a new Challenger two-door coupe imported from Mitsubishi. It was offered with a standard 1.6-liter, 77-horsepower I-4 engine, with a 2.6-liter, 105-horsepower four-cylinder as an option.
Slightly restyled in 1981, the Dodge Challenger soldiered on until 1984, replaced by the growing stable of Chrysler corporation's K-platform compacts and a new import from Mitsubishi, the Dodge/Plymouth Conquest.
Over its six-year run, sales of the imported Dodge Challenger averaged between 12,000 and 14,000 units per year.
2006
At the North America International Auto Show in Detroit in January, Chrysler unveiled the Dodge Challenger concept to immediate acclaim. Based on the company's advanced rear-wheel-drive "LX" platform and its fabled HEMI® engine, the Challenger concept featured the long hood, short deck, wide stance and two-door coupe body style that distinguished the iconic Challengers of the 1970s.
Over the next several months, the company received repeated pleas from consumers and the media to build the car.

Engineering

Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology Sets a New Standard for the Modern American Muscle Coupe
♣ 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8® is the ultimate factory-built performance muscle coupe
♣ Boasts a 6.1-liter HEMI® V-8 engine that produces 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque
♣ Derived from successful Dodge Charger platform
♣ World-class ride and handling characteristics make the all-new Dodge Challenger potent on the track and a pleasure on the street
♣ Benchmark braking performance from 60-0 mph in approximately 110 feet
The all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 is the ultimate performance muscle coupe. The two-door, rear-wheel drive coupe is based on the successful Dodge Charger sedan platform. Sporting a 116-inch wheelbase, the Challenger coupe is four inches shorter than the Charger sedan.
Consumers will enjoy outstanding performance on the street or on the track. With a low ride height, a brake-lock differential, SRT-tailored spring rates and shock rates, sway bars and a uniquely-tuned Electronic Stability Program (ESP), the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 offers world-class ride and handling characteristics across a dynamic range.
"The 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 is the ultimate modern muscle car - built by gearheads for gearheads," said Kipp Owen - Director, Street and Racing Technology Engineering. "SRT understands what customers want in a performance car, and with the Challenger SRT8, we will exceed their expectations."
Suspension
Built on a unibody construction, the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 features a multilink short and long arm (SLA) front suspension. The front suspension cradle combines hydroformed steel tube side rails with a stamped box section lateral member to provide the appropriate level of stiffness. The stiffness is tuned to avoid the transmission of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) into the passenger compartment. The multilink SLA suspension also provided SRT engineers the opportunity to tune bushing compliances for reduction in road noise, while maintaining vehicle dynamic handling performance.
The 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 sports a five-link Independent Rear Suspension (IRS). IRS offers a better ride by allowing for independent tuning of the ride and handling characteristics. Multiple links maintain independent control of camber and toe during suspension movement. Lower unsprung mass offers a better ride and the decoupling of left and right wheels over road imperfections maintains better tire contact with the ground and results in better ride comfort. Multiple bushings in the IRS offer the flexibility to tune for ride and comfort. In addition, stabilizer bar attachments to the knuckles provide maximum response to vehicle lean.
"The original Dodge Challenger was best known for its straight-line prowess at the drag strip," said Owen. "The 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 not only lives up to that heritage, but was engineered to offer world-class ride and handling characteristics when on the street, at a drag strip or at a road course."
SRT-exclusive fully-forged 20-inch Alcoa aluminum wheels with 4-season Goodyear Eagle RS-A tires are standard for 2008. Three-season Goodyear F1 Supercar tires are available.
POWERTRAIN
The 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8's 425 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque is a result of SRT's exclusive, proven 6.1-liter HEMI® V-8 engine, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick®.
The normally aspirated 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 engine is the highest naturally aspirated specific-output V-8 engine ever offered by Chrysler. Its 69.8 horsepower-per-liter rating exceeds even that of the legendary 1966 "Street HEMI."
Challenger SRT8's transmission is an electronically controlled five-speed automatic, with a lock up torque converter and AutoStick.
Three sets of planetary gears provide the individual transmission ratios, while six friction clutches and two overrunning clutches select them. An aggressive first gear ratio provides outstanding launch performance. AutoStick gives the driver the ability to select a higher or lower gear while the transmission controller calibration prevents fuel shutoff during power shifts.
Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes the powertrain feel responsive without harshness. Electronically controlled engine torque management provides smooth full-throttle launches, quick wide-open-throttle up shifts and quick two-step, kick-down shifts that are smoother. Extensive use of an electronically modulated converter clutch (EMCC) improves fuel economy while maintaining smooth operation.
Benchmark Braking
Benchmark braking, one of the pillars of SRT, is delivered via a specially designed system for the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 that will slow and stop the car quickly, safely and predictably.
All four wheels are equipped with red, painted Brembo calipers that feature four pistons for even clamping performance. 360 x 32mm vented rotors are found up front and 350 x 26mm vented rotors are in the rear. With a 60-0 mph stopping distance of approximately 110 feet, the all-new Dodge Challenger SRT8 offers customers benchmark braking.
Performance Targets
0-60 mph: Low 5 seconds
0-100-0 mph: Under 17 seconds
¼-mile: Under 14 seconds
Skid pad: 0.88 g
60-0 mph: Approximately 110 feet
Design

♣ Exterior design marries Challenger heritage to bold, expressive, modern Dodge style
♣ Race-inspired interior reminiscent of the original Challenger, with all the modern amenities and technology that today's customer expects
The all-new, five-passenger 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8® captures the emotion of the original two-door, rear-wheel-drive Challenger, but with an updated twist.
"Our designers wanted to capture the mind's eye view of what people today remember about the Challenger from 35 years ago," said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President - Design, Chrysler. "So their challenge was to excite today's customer by capturing the emotion of the original Challenger, but with today's quality and performance."
The all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 offers exterior styling cues that are unmistakably Dodge. Exterior proportions evoke a bold, instantly recognizable vehicle that has a wide, stable stance on the road. A full-width grille and fog lamps reminiscent of the original Challenger are married to the modern "Dodge attitude." The result is an aggressive face that is unmistakably a muscle car. The hood with a raised center, carbon fiberlike stripes and functional dual scoops stays true to the Challenger heritage, as does the A-line and beltline.
The Challenger SRT8 front end incorporates numerous functional design features. Included are a fascia that directs air around the front of the vehicle, dual snorkel hood scoops that bring cooling air into the engine compartment and ducts that direct air to cool the brakes.
A black rocker and valance on the rear amplify the Challenger SRT8's classic aggressive look.
The rear spoiler is not only reminiscent of the original Dodge Challenger T/A model, but is a functional part of the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8, generating significant rear downforce.
"We used the original Challenger as an inspiration for many of the features found on the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8®," said Jeff Gale, Lead Designer - Dodge Challenger Exterior Design. "The side mirrors actually started with a mold from the mirrors of an original Challenger. We tweaked a few details for fit and finish, then put them through our modern aerodynamic testing metrics and ended up with a body-mounted mirror that is remarkably similar visually to the original, but offers significantly better aerodynamic performance."
"The dark headliner was very important to us when designing the interior," said Brian Nielander, Manager - Dodge Challenger Exterior and Interior Design. "It not only stays true to the original Challenger, but it also gives a sinister, more businesslike atmosphere."
The crease along the C-pillar and around the rear glass is exactly as seen on the Dodge Challenger concept car, while the full-width graphic for the tail lamp with reverse lamp in the center evokes the original Challenger.
The 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 is available in three exterior colors: HEMI Orange, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat and Bright Silver Metallic.
The race-inspired interior of the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 also utilizes the original Dodge Challenger - and the more recent Challenger concept car - for inspiration, while offering consumers a wide array of modern amenities and interior finishes.
Interior 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 highlights include race-inspired leather seats with added bolstering and an exclusive orange accent stripe, exclusive stitched accents on the seats and steering wheel, four-bomb gauges with tachometer and 180 mph speedometer in the center, and an SRT-exclusive Reconfigurable Display (RCD) with Performances Pages that provide drivers instant feedback on 0-60 mph time, 60-0 mph braking, g-forces and ¼-mile time.
The trapezoidal theme of the door and gauge cluster, the dark headliner and the slanted shifter console are all based directly on the original Dodge Challenger.
A limited-edition, numbered dash plaque, SRT8 badging, a titanium weave instrument panel and center cluster bezel are featured on 2008 Challenger SRT8 models.
Standard on the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 is a 13-speaker Kicker High Performance audio system that features a 322-watt amplifier and 200-watt subwoofer, and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. A MyGIG infotainment system is also available.

Safety And Security

All-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8® Boasts More Than Two Dozen Safety and Security Features
• Standard supplemental side-curtain air bags
• Standard advanced multistage air bags
• Standard specially tuned Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with traction control and brake assist
The all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 is loaded with safety and security features, including standard supplemental side-curtain air bags and advanced multistage front driver and passenger air bags. It also features a specially tuned Electronic Stability Program (ESP), designed for the Challenger SRT8's performance handling characteristics, all-speed traction control and brake assist.
Chrysler LLC employs a two-fold safety approach: passive safety features including pretentioning and load-limiting seatbelt retractors and supplemental side air bags, combined with active accident-avoidance safety features including responsive steering, handling and braking.
Following are 28 safety and security features offered in the all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8:
• Advanced Multistage Air Bags: Inflates with a force appropriate to the severity of an impact. Meets FMVSS 208 advanced air bag requirements for small out-of-position occupants
• All-speed Traction Control: Senses drive-wheel slip and applies individual brakes to a slipping wheel(s), and reduces excess engine power until traction is regained
• Anti-lock Brake System (ABS): Senses and prevents wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking and/or slippery conditions - advanced ABS modulates the four brakes individually for optimum control and stopping performance
• Auto-reverse Window: Automatically engages and reverses the window to the down position when an obstacle that restricts glass movement is detected
• BeltAlert: Periodically activates a chime and illuminates an icon in the instrument cluster to remind the driver to buckle up if a vehicle is driven without the driver being properly belted
• Brake Assist: In a panic brake condition, the system applies maximum braking power, providing the shortest possible stopping distance
• Child Seat Anchor System: Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) is designed to ease installation of compatible aftermarket child seats
• Constant Force Retractors (CFR): Distribute force or load exerted on a seatbelt, and then gradually release the seatbelt webbing in a controlled manner
• Crumple Zones: Designed to compress during an accident in order to absorb energy from an impact, decreasing transfer of that energy to occupants
• Digressive Load Limiting Retractors: A two-stage load-limiting feature to limit the maximum force on the belt webbing in order to help absorb the energy of the occupant's upper torso during an impact
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP): Enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability under all conditions. Provides the greatest benefit in critical driving situations, such as turns, and is especially valuable when driving on mixed surface conditions including snow, ice or gravel. If there's a discernible difference between what the driver asks through the steering wheel and the vehicle's path, ESP applies selective braking and throttle input to put the vehicle back onto the driver's intended path
• Energy-absorbing Steering Column: The manual-adjust steering column utilizes two hydroformed coaxial tubes that move relative to each other in order to allow the column to move forward for enhanced energy-absorption during an impact
• Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS): Makes it easier for emergency personnel to see and reach occupants in the event of an accident by turning on interior lights and unlocking doors after air bag deployment. Also shuts off the flow of fuel to the engine
• Height-adjustable Seatbelts: Allows the driver and front passenger to raise and lower the shoulder belt. Encourages seatbelt usage by offering a comfortable fit
• High-intensity Discharge (HID) Headlamps: Provide approximately three times the light output of conventional reflector lamps for improved nighttime illumination
• HomeLink® Universal Home Security System Transceiver: Stores three separate transmitter radio frequency codes to operate garage door openers, security gates, security lighting or other radio-controlled devices
• Interior Head-impact Protection: Interior pillars above the belt line and instrument panel, including areas around windshield and rear window headers, roof and side-rail structures and shoulder belt turning loops are specifically designed to limit head impact force
• Inside Emergency Trunk Release: A glow-in-the-dark release handle, which can be activated in the event of an adult or child being inadvertently trapped inside the trunk
• Knee Bolsters: The lower instrument panel and the glove box door are designed to properly position the occupant, enabling air bags to work effectively
• Remote Keyless Entry: Locks and unlocks doors, and turns on interior lamps. If the vehicle is equipped with a vehicle-theft security alarm, the remote also arms and disarms that system
• Safety Cage Body Structure: Protects occupants by managing and controlling energy in the event of an impact
• Seatbelt Pretensioners: During a collision, impact sensors initiate front seatbelt pretensioners to immediately remove slack from seatbelts, thereby reducing the forward movement of occupants' heads and torsos
• Sentry Key® Engine Immobilizer: Utilizes an engine key that has an embedded transponder with a pre-programmed security code to discourage vehicle theft. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the controller sends a random number to the transponder and the engine is allowed to start. If an incorrect key is used, the engine will shut off after only a few seconds
• Side Guard Door Beams: In front and rear doors, provides occupant protection during a side impact
• Supplemental Side-curtain Air Bags: Extends protection to all outboard front- and rear-seat passengers. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor in order to autonomously trigger the air bag on the side where an impact occurs
• Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPM): Pressure-sensor modules within the valve stems of all four road wheels send continuous radio frequency signals to a receiver and the system informs occupants when tire pressure is too low
• UConnect® Hands Free Communication System: Uses Bluetooth® technology to provide voice-controlled wireless communication between the occupants' compatible mobile phones and the vehicle's onboard receiver
• Vehicle Theft Security Alarm: Deters vandalism and theft, frequently lowering insurance premiums. System protects the vehicle from theft by monitoring door-ajar switches and the ignition circuit for unauthorized entry

Specs

Dimensions are in inches (millimeters) unless otherwise noted.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Body Style..............................................................................................................Coupe
Assembly Plant ................................................................. Brampton, Ontario, Canada
EPA Vehicle Class.............................................................................. Intermediate car
Introduction Date ...............................................................................................April 2008
ENGINE: 6.1-LITER HEMI® V8
Type and Description .............................................................................90-degree V-type, liquid-cooled
Displacement ..................................................................................370 cu. in. (6059 cu. cm)
Bore x Stroke .............................................................................4.06 x 3.58 (103.0 x 90.9)
Valve System .........................................Pushrod-operated overhead valves, 16 valves,
conventional hydraulic lifters, all with roller followers
Fuel Injection..............................................Sequential, multi-port, electronic, returnless
Construction .....................Deep-skirt cast-iron block with cross-bolted main bearing caps,
aluminum alloy heads with hemispherical combustion chambers
Compression Ratio................................................................................................10.3:1
Power (estimated SAE Net)..............................................425 bhp @ 6200 rpm, (69.8 bhp/L)
Torque (estimated SAE Net) ..............................................420 lb.-ft. (310 N•m) @ 4800 rpm
Max. Engine Speed.................................................6400 rpm (electronically limited)
Fuel Requirement .................Unleaded premium 91 octane (R+M)/2 recommended
Oil Capacity ...............................................................................................7 qt. (6.6 L)
Coolant Capacity.............................................................................14 qt. (13.25 L)
Emission Controls ....................................Dual close-coupled 3-way catalytic converters,
............. quad heated oxygen sensors and internal engine features
Max. Gross Trailer Weight...........................................................Not recommended
Estimated EPA Fuel Economy, mpg (City/Hwy)...........................(13/18)
TRANSMISSION: AUTOMATIC, 5-SPEED OVERDRIVE (W5A580)
Description ...........................................Adaptive electronic control or AutoStick® driver-
interactive manual control and electronically modulated torque converter clutch
Gear Ratios
1st........................................................................................................3.58
2nd...........................................................................................................2.19
3rd..............................................................................................................1.41
4th ........................................................................................................1.00
5th ...............................................................................................................0.83
Reverse ........................................................................................................3.17
Final Drive Ratio................................................................ 6.1L - 3.06
Overall Top Gear......................................................................6.1L - 2.54
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Alternator ................................................................................... 160A
Battery...........................................................630 CCA, maintenance-free
DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Wheelbase, in. (mm) .........................................................116.0 (2,946)
Track, Front, in. (mm) .........................................................63.0 (1603)
Track, Rear, in. (mm)............................................................63.1 (1604)
Overall Length, in. (mm) ...................................................197.7 (5,023)
Overall Width, in. (mm) .......................................................75.7 (1,923)
Overall Height, in. (mm)........................................................57.0 (1,448)
Ground Clearance, in. (mm) ............................... @ curb 5.5 (140.6)
Frontal Area, sq. ft. (sq. m) ............................................ 25.3 (2.35)
Drag Coefficient.....................................................................0.353 (9.01 CdA)
Curb Weight, estimated, lb. (kg) ............................. 4140 (1878)
Weight Distribution, percent F/R..................................... 55.6/44.4
Fuel Tank Capacity, gal. ...................................................... 19 gal.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Seating Capacity, F/R...............................................................................2/3
Front Seat
Headoom, in. (mm) .........................................................................39.5 (1,004)
Leg Room, in. (mm)........................................................................42.0 (1,067)
Shoulder Room, in. (mm).............................................................58.2 (1,478)
Hip Room, in. (mm) ....................................................................54.7 (1,390)
Seat Travel, mm .......................Interior driver - 270 mm, Passenger - 220 mm
Recliner Angle Range, deg. .....................Interior driver - 86 deg. passenger - 69 deg.
SAE Front Volume Index,
cu. ft. (cu. m)......................................................................55.8 (1.58)
Rear Seat
Headroom, in. (mm) ................................................................37.4 (951)
Leg Room, in. (mm)...................................................................... 32.6 (829)
Knee Clearance, in. (mm) ........................................................ 1.2 (31.1)
Shoulder Room, in. (mm)...........................................................53.9 (1,370)
Hip Room, in. (mm) .......................................................................51.4 (1,305.4)
SAE Rear Seat Volume Index,
cu. ft. (cu. m)................................................................38.1 (1.08)
Total Interior Volume, cu. ft. (cu. m) ........................................... 93.9 (2.66)
SAE Cargo Volume cu. ft. (cu. m) (Charger) ......16.2 (0.459)
EPA Interior Volume Index, cu. ft. (cu. m) .........................110.1 (3.12)
Trunk Liftover Height, in. (mm)......................................................... 33.0 (839)
All dimensions measured at curb weight with standard tires.
BODY
Layout ........................................................Longitudinal front engine, rear-wheel drive
Construction ........................................................Unitized steel body
STEERING
Type.............................................Rack and pinion with hydraulic power assist
Overall Ratio ...............................................................................................................16.1:1
Turning Diameter (curb-to-curb) 37.5 ft. (11.48 m)
Steering Turns (lock-to-lock) ........................................................2.75
SUSPENSION
Front .........................................Independent SLA with high upper "A" arm,
coil spring over bilstein monotube gas-charged shock absorbers and stabilizer
bar - Std. Lateral and diagonal lower links - Std.
Rear...................................Five-link independent with coil springs, link-type stabilizer bar,
bilstein monotube gas-charged shock absorbers and isolated suspension cradle - Std.
TIRES
Size and Type .............................................245/45 R20 frt P255/45 R20 rr 3-season tires
Mfr. and Model ...........................................Goodyear F1 Supercar
Revs per Mile..............................................................................726 frt/718 rr
Availability................................................................................. Opt.
Size and Type ..................................... 245/45 R20 all-season performance
Mfr. and Model ..................................................................Goodyear RSA/SRT
Revs per Mile (km)....................................................................... 731 (456)
Other sizes and brands may also be used.
WHEELS
Availability....................................................................................................Std.
Type and Material....................................................... Fully forged aluminum
Size ......................................................................................................20 x 9.0
BRAKES
Front
Rotor Size and Type.....................................14.2 x 1.26 ( 360 x 32.0 ) vented
Caliper Size and Type......... 1.73 (44) Brembo 4-piston fixed with aluminum housing
Swept Area....................................................................351 sq. in. (2261 sq. cm)
Rear
Rotor Size and Type.......................................................13.8 x 1.10 (350 x 28) vented
Caliper Size and Type.............11.26 (32) Brembo 4-piston fixed with aluminum housing
Swept Area.........................................................................316 sq. in. (2036 sq. cm)
Four-Wheel Anti-Lock and Traction Control...................................................................Std.
Electronic Stability Control and Brake Assist ...................................................................Std.
Brake Knockback Mitigation _____________________________________________ Std
Power Assist Type .................8 + 9 (203 + 209) tandem-diaphragm vacuum booster

[Source: Chrysler]

Is this a couple of engineers with Challengers paying a visit to mock Roush and their Mustang entrant into the Muscle Car Wars? Is Roush going to be tuning the next generation of Challengers? Did the drivers stop to take a leak? We don't know, but we're happy to speculate. Nope, unfortunately not. You see, this is Roush Industries, not Roush Performance. That's like an entirely different company and stuff. (UPDATE: The company pictures is not Roush Performance, but Roush Industries. Both are part of the same company, but the former tunes Stangs while the latter is a parts supplier)[Oot via CarScoop]

Own the first production Limited Edition 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 to come off the assembly line. Proceeds of the sale to benefit notMYkid Charity. Dodge Challenger is back after nearly 35 years and you could own the first vehicle before it's even produced. Bid for Dodge Challenger #1,the first production Challenger to come off the assembly line for direct sale to the U.S. Dodge dealer network. The #1 Challenger includes all production options including a 6.1 Liter V8 engine with a 5-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick, sunroof, navigation and performance tires. The vehicle will be identified by a dash plaque indicating #1 of the Limited Edition production. You have seen the concept and rest assured the production model is true not only to the Challenger concept but also Challenger's heritage. Five "teaser" photos of the production car have been released showcasing the notable styling elements that are sure to please. The all-new 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 - the ultimate modern American muscle coupe will make its worldwide debut at the Chicago Auto Show on February 6, 2008. In addition to receiving the rights to the first production Challenger, the winning bidder also receives: Two VIP passes to the May 2008 Dodge Challenger 500 NASCAR race at Darlington Raceway complete with airfare and lodging, a meet and greet with Kyle Petty at the Dodge Challenger 500 in Darlington, May, 2008 and a Dodge Motorsports prize pack with vehicle delivery. The vehicle will be delivered to the Dodge Dealer of choice in the United States no later than May 31, 2008. All Proceeds from Dodge Challenger No. 1 will benefit notMYkid - an organization dedicated to facilitating improved understanding about youth behavioral health issues including suicide, drug abuse, eating disorders and depression. notMYkid was founded in 2000, and is designed to educate parents about youth and adolescent substance abuse, eating disorders, suicide, ADHD, depression, and more. Information is available on the website www.notMYkid.org to educate parents about the warning signs and symptoms and to empower them to implement effective prevention and intervention strategies. In 2006, notMYkid reached 80,000 parents and students nationwide. The organization offers several programs for parent education as well as peer-to-peer youth programs.