MotorAuthority

Chrysler confirms Dodge Challenger drag-race package

Posted Fri May 16 2008 10:34 AM by James Martinez

Chrysler is set to release a new drag-racing package for its Dodge Challenger muscle car this July, which will be aimed at both professional teams and enthusiasts. The new kit is described as a modern day equivalent of the Hemi Dart and Barracuda package cars of the late 1960s and will be loosely based on the Dodge Challenger Super Stock concept rolled out at last year’s SEMA Auto Show.

The information comes from Chrysler spokeswoman Patricia Georgevich, who revealed to Edmunds that the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) is already working closely with Chrysler engineers to sanction the components for racing use.

Some of the specs flying around internet discussion groups include a new lighter chassis, weighing up to 800 pounds less than the production car, unique serial build numbers, several different variants of the current 5.9L HEMI and Magnum engines, and both automatic and manual transmissions.

Racing elements include a lightweight front fascia support system, composite lift-off hood with a functional scoop, an uprated cooling module with electric fan, new brakes and a set of racing seats.

Final pricing details and specification are expected to be released closer to its launch in July.

Dodge Challenger SRT8

Story Tags:

• Coupes
• Dodge

Reader Comments

• Fri May 16 2008 3:07 PM

  wang lee says

  Oh I love its shape
  
  would be better if they change the rim style...

• Fri May 16 2008 7:47 PM

  brian says

  Any European performance car will kick its ass. M3, S4, RS4,even a Lexus IS-F.

• Fri May 16 2008 9:07 PM

  Layne says

  I wonder what they mean by "lighter weight chassis"? I wonder if a portion of the car is tube frame or something. Either way, if this is road legal, and not live axle or something like that, then I could see this being useful for more than just drag racing. The Challanger is ust way too fat and heavy, but if you could have one that weighs 800lbs less, that would make me actually interested in one.
  
  Oh and Brian, stop trying to stir up shit.

• Sat May 17 2008 2:11 PM

  mark says

  Layne if its a drag spec car then it has to have a live axle. How many hard core drag cars have IRS? not many.

• Sun May 18 2008 3:33 PM

  Trevor says

  Good old American muscle drag...
  Can't help myself, it's pretty darn cool.
  Taking off that 800 lbs will definately help the notorious weight of american muscle.
  I like the rear tires, they remind me of some the old 57 chevys for drag back in the day.