The Challenger-it's the high-powered beast that launched Mopar into the pony wars. It's a four-seater, two-door coupe that is one of the most expensive musclecars in existence. Finally, Ma Mopar is again going after the Mustang with this concept Challenger. We just hope they build it the way it looks in these studio shots. The new Challenger is all musclecar with an SRT-tuned 6.1-liter, 425hp, Hemi V-8, linked to a six-speed manual transmission-YES, a manual stick shift! Chrysler estimates the fully functional concept should rocket from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, and clip the quarter-mile in 13 seconds. To top it all off a top speed of 174 mph is expected.
This time around, the dimensions of the car make it six inches shorter in the wheelbase and two-inches wider. It's a tough, lean, squatted stance that harkens back to the original. Tom Tremont, vice president of Advance Vehicle Design for Chrysler says, "Instead of merely recreating the '70 Challenger, the designers set out to build the Challenger that embodies the vision many have of the original without the distractions of wheels tucked under too far and the long front-end overhang."
Outside, the Challenger keeps the signature horizontal body line that creases the fender and door, and kicks up just ahead of the rear wheel. The long, low hood is accented by twin diagonal scoops fitted with functional butterfly-valve intakes. Going inside the car, deep gauge holes, a leather-wrapped steering wheel (with ribbed steering column, of course), and, once again, a pistol-grip shift handle screams Challenger.
So we all agree, it's about time Chrysler built a two-door performance car to go head-to-head with Ford's Mustang. Now we all need to get down to our local Dodge dealers, and tell them to inform Chrysler to build it in mass.
Keep an eye on the magazine and the website for more about this car!