The April 2008 issue of
Car and Driver has the Challenger on the front cover. The title is "American Muscle- First Drive 425-HP Dodge Challenger SRT8."
Here are some excerpts from the article:
"Robustly retro with a 425-HP Hemi on board, it's definitely the return of a real Challenger."
"The SRT Challenger is infinitely more competent in all dynamic areas than its ancient ancestor."
"The shape is faithful to the original, but modern brakes and Goodyear F1 Supercar tires add dynamics that were totally absent in the 70s."
"We predict the Challenger will hit 60 mph from rest in 4.7 seconds and clear the quarter in 13.1...and should be capable of reaching the engine 6,400-rpm redline in fourth and attaining a 173-mph top speed."
"With a retro-themed vehicle, you wind up with retro aerodynamics, and that required a lot of work. Our aero target was to be the same as the Charger SRT, but we wound up with a touch more lift at the front and a touch less downforce at the rear."
"With Goodyear F1 Supercar tires (245/40-20 front, 255/45-20 rear)
and almost identical suspension components- coil-over Bilstein monotube shocks all-around and anti-roll bars at both ends-we expect respectable handling."
"The steering is quick and precise, and the Hemi's exhaust note provides a throbbing reminder of muscle-car music. It's barely legal...any louder and we couldn't get it certified."
"It's a compelling car with a look that is, to bestow the loftiest of muscle-car praise. Nothing short of bitchin'."
