Evolution is the ever-evolving improvement of someone or something. Since its beginning, hot-rodding cars has also evolved. For example, remember when engine bearings were made of leather? Now they're made with a combination of materials providing longer life. This is kinda like evolution. Now, what would you call it if someone were to insert a new computer-controlled engine into a vintage car-let's say a Challenger? Before your lower lip starts to twitch, let's use a Hemi. The new 5.7-liter Hemi engine is Ma Mopar's answer to the question "what next?"
The new-age Hemi incorporates a unique two-valve, hemispherical combustion chamber in an aluminum head that provides impressive airflow, torque, and power. The 5.7 Hemi is 56 pounds lighter than the 5.9 liter, and it produces 41 percent more power and a 12 percent increase in peak torque. So why not?
Mike Crowell of Newburgh, Indiana, saw the Street & Performance display at the Mopar Nationals in Columbus, Ohio, where Mark Campbell was displaying a wire harness kit for the 5.7. He immediately decided to have the team of Street & Performance in Mena, Arkansas, install a 5.7 Hemi into his '70 Challenger convertible. Lucky for us, they took pictures.
Mike's Challenger began life as the old car that just sat in the barn. When Mike found it, the car ran, but was in pretty sad shape. Immediately upon getting his new acquisition home, Mike began stripping the body down to its birthday suit. Some floorpan and trunk work needed done, as well as new quarters, but Mike was undeterred. With the metal smooth, good friend Tim Berkemeier covered it in Viper Red. Mike then installed a newly-rebuilt 440 Six Pack and five-speed tranny.
Mike enjoyed the Challenger in this form for quite some time. until the Nats...
The rest, as they say, is evolution.