Dodge Challenger SRT8 gets German makeover

German running gear specialist KW Automotive has chosen a very peculiar vehicle for its latest modification program, one of the purest examples of a modern-day American muscle car, the Dodge Challenger SRT8. As with any production car, there are always weaknesses and in the case of the Challenger the biggest sticking point is arguably the car’s road holding ability.

In stock form the Challenger SRT8 comes with a 6.1L HEMI V8 engine churning out 425 hp (313 kW) – More than enough power for most. Therefore, KW has not concentrated on the engine performance apart from fitting a K&N sport air filter and a Magnaflow 3.5in diameter exhaust system. But when it comes to its road holding characteristics in bends, KW has performed many changes.

Engineers have fitted VW’s Variant 1 stainless steel suspension upgrade, which lowers the car at either axle by up to 50mm. The stainless steel casing guarantees that the components inside remain continuously flexible even when they are strained more in winter.

Other modifications include HRE 22in forged aluminum wrapped in Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tires, as well as a pair of vertically lifting ‘Lamborghini-style’ doors.