Dodge Challenger

Angular Front Exterior View - 2009 Dodge Challenger 2-door Coupe R/T

Enlarge Photo

Shopping for a 2012 Dodge Challenger? MSRP: $24,995 - $43,995

GET A FREE PRICE QUOTE

The Dodge Challenger is a two-door muscle car that started as Dodge's answer to the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. Since its introduction, the Challenger has remained true to its roots, its two generations spanning a three-decade hiatus yet still looking, driving and performing much alike. As a muscle car, it's still primarily up against the Mustang and Camaro, though its pricing outstrips either when configured with the SRT8 package. The base V-6 version starts at $23,460, the R/T from $31,585 and the SRT8 from $41,230.

Though it started production in 1970, the Challenger has only seen two generations of production due to a 30-year hiatus from 1978 to 2008. The original offered four hardtop models: Challenger Six, V8, T/A, and R/T. A convertible was offered in 1970 and 1971 only. Engines ranged from a 225 cubic-inch six to a 230-horsepower, 318 cubic-inch V-8, a 340 cubic-inch V-8 and the 290-horsepower 383-cubic-inch V-8. All models came standard with a three-speed manual transmission except for the 383 cubic-inch V-8, which was only available with a TorqueFlite automatic.

The R/T featured a 383 cubic-inch Magnum V-8, rated for 335 horsepower initially, but later 300 horsepower. The R/T could also be upgraded to a 440 cubic-inch Magnum, a 440 cubic-inch Six-Pack and a 426 cubic-inch Hemi. The first generation of the Challenger ran from 1970 to 1978.

The current generation of the Challenger was reintroduced in 2008, with a simplified lineup and engine range: the SE, a base V-6 model with 250 horsepower; the R/T, with a 5.7-liter HEMI rated at 375 horsepower; and the SRT8, with a 6.1-liter HEMI rated at 425 horsepower. This new range was styled to look much like the classic Challenger, though it has grown considerably in size, weighing over 4,000 pounds and featuring 17 to 20-inch alloy wheels. Nevertheless, it provides classic muscle-car feel and performance, with an available five-speed automatic or pistol-grip six-speed manual (manual available on R/T and SRT8 only). Key features standard across the range include front and side-curtain airbags, power adjustable driver's seat, a four-speaker CD/MP3 stereo, cloth seating, and power accessories. The R/T model, in addition to upgrading the engine, adds a unique appearance package, an advanced traction control system, fog lamps, dual exhaust tips and electronic stability control. The SRT8 builds further on this package with more aggressive exterior styling, upgraded interior elements and SRT8 badges inside and out.

For 2011, the Dodge Challenger is expected to see minor technological upgrades and possible price increases, but will otherwise continue forward with the current range, though rumors of a slightly more power SRT8 version have circulated.

Related Video: