The Dodge Challenger Hot or Not

Blogs, automobile sites, and car shows have been hyping up the concept Dodge Challenger to the point at which you would think the automobile is sort of prepared to roll off of a DCX assembly line. To claim that the prototype is being well received is an understatement — quite frankly if the Challenger was available for sale today the list would be many months long. Such is the clamor for a retro vehicle that takes its styling cues right from the ’71 Challenger.

As it currently 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 manufactured 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 entire retro vehicle revolution. Mentioning that Detroit must reach back in time to make important autos is a sworn statement to the each automaker’s problems. To the contrary, I suspect the many revived models currently being planned or already on our streets is a clear affidavit to Detroit finally listening to its patrons : we want cars that are uniquely styled and we would like them to perform exactly the way you may say they will perform. No fake hood scoops, no heralded model name slapped on a vehicle that pales in comparison to the first. No, we do not need you to build the first model we need you to build the first model better. Take the styling cues and run with them and incorporate modern technology to improve upon the first design. That’s all we ask.

So, just what can fans expect when they take delivery of their Challenger? Well, like I claimed the automobile is still in the planning stages, but what I have gleaned from assorted sites is the following information:

Modified Platform — If you like the Mercedes based LX platform currently used to run the Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, and Dodge Charger then the LY platform will suit you too. DCX is intending to tweak the LX platform for its next generation of automobiles and the LY based Challenger will be one of many autos built on it. Some have recommended the LY will be the LX on steroids, whatever that means.

Did Somebody Say Hemi? — Every Mopar product of significance will have optional Hemi power and the Challenger is no exception. Expect a V6 to be standard with the optional Hemi V8 for performance versions of the car. Some have suggested that the the 425 h.p. SRT 6.1L V8 will also be made available for the Challenger.

Ragtop Regalia — Chrysler asserts the Sebring will be its only convertible offering, but that leaves Dodge dealers without a soft top car to market [other than the Rattlesnake , of course]. In spite 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 aftermarket 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 will not be in new car showrooms any time shortly. For those among us waiting with “baited breath” we’re going to have to console ourselves with the many blogs, sites, and auto shows hyping the car. Apart from that, try to imagine your shiny new Challenger stopped at a traffic light with a Mustang on one side and a Camaro on the other side.