Overclocker

AutoWeek | Published 06/30/06, 1:25 pm et

Chrysler will announce on Saturday one of the worst kept secrets in the industry: that it will build a production version of the Dodge Challenger coupe, first unveiled at the 2006 Detroit auto show.

Details are still sketchy, but indications are Challenger will hit the market either late next year or sometime in 2008.

The Challenger concept sits on a shortened version of the LX platform that underpins the 300C, itself once a Mercedes E-Class. That platform holds up not only the 300C, but also the Dodge Magnum and Dodge Charger.

The concept uses the 6.1-liter, 425-hp SRT8 Hemi V8 mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Dodge lists 0 to 60 mph in the concept at 4.5 seconds and the quarter-mile in 13 seconds. Top speed is 174 mph.

Production of the vehicle makes good business sense, since Chrysler would save big bucks on development. And by slapping in an existing engine, as is the case here, the company would save even more bucks.

Photo Gallery

Source: http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dl.../60630001/1065

Jewcano

iTrader: (4)

Thats a meaty looking car. And power aint too bad either

Lexmex

That is one nice looking car and it has some classic lines to it, unlike those fake classic lines I see in the Mustang, though I still think the modern Mustang one darn good looking car.

PhilipMSPT

iTrader: (5)

Dodge is really doing sooo much with retro-inspired American muscle cars. People are liking it and buying it, and that's good business for Chrysler...

GFerg

Great that it is coming. Now we have to get Chevy to stop hesitating (as usual) and produce the Camaro.

Ice350

iTrader: (1)

I sorta like it because I'm a muscle car lover but it's too retro for my taste. It looks almost exactly like the old car. That's not a good thing. The old car was a boat. Where's the aerodynamics? This thing will be grabbing the air as it goes along.

whoster

i want one..........


AHHHH...

CHIS350

This is really a great move for them. I'm sure they'll have no problem selling them at a good price point. Another example of how Chrysler/Dodge knows their customers better than any domestic brand.

GSsnarl

So like the Dodge Charger, this thing will be based on the old E-class platform? Not the new one?

-J-P-L-

Chrysler's will most likely never use a current Mercedes platform as that would diminish the perceived value and state of the art technology of Mercedes-Benz.

-J-P-L-

Yeah, they would almost be foolish not to build this car. It's essentially production ready.

Chrysler puts concept cars on the road in about a 1-2 years. GM takes half a decade and it will probably be the end of this one until we see the Camaro concept come to life.

mmarshall

Even though I've essentially become a convert to modern AWD cars, this car will be a real temptation to me, especially if done in the 1970 purple and lime green colors, in addition to the expected red, orange, and yellow. It is the best modern attempt yet at doing one of the retro cars I grew up with...all they need now is chrome bumpers like the original. ( the new Mustang had the looks but is built like a piece of cardboard ). I saw this car at the DC Auto Show in January but of course did not get a chance to look it over at real close range and examine its build quality....( Good golly, I hope it is better than the Mustang's ). I'll save final comments for a review.

Indio

iTrader: (1)

Holding out for the convertible.

LexFather

I hope its another hit for Chrsyler! What a wondeful concept, I think it is great

IronCobra

I'm waiting for the return of the Camaro