392 Highlights
Here are some of the recently released 392 highlights that would interest our members:
The new Dodge Challenger SRT8® 392 builds on its original mantra of a rear-wheel-drive coupe that promises a balanced approach between form and function, with impressive straight-line acceleration and world-class ride and handling to go along with high-performance braking and the latest technology that delivers improved fuel efficiency.
This new Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 answers their call for more power off the line,” Ralph Gilles, President and CEO—Dodge Brand, said. “We consciously tuned the 392 for a lot more torque, as that is what truly creates the thrust that sets you back in the seat and keeps you there! We can’t wait to see our customers’ reactions when they get behind the wheel and put their foot on the throttle—it is so responsive and a blast to drive.”
The SRT8 392 provides another step in showcasing the evolution of the performance brand. Pumping out 470 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque, the newest HEMI engine in the SRT product lineup provides an additional 90 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,900 rpm versus the previous 6.1-liter V-8 engine. The added torque allows for inspired standing starts and improved straight-line performance while new, performance-tuned motor mounts improve idle stability and ride control at any speed. An active intake manifold and high-lift camshaft with cam phasing provides maximum low-end torque while optimizing high-end power.
An improved heavy-duty clutch provides easier shift engagement.
Like the original 392 HEMI, the performance on the street and at the track is sure to turn heads with numbers such as 0-60 mph in high 4-second range and quarter-mile elapsed time in the high 12s.
A redesigned SRT-tuned exhaust system results in a deeper, throatier note that will surely create envious onlookers both during daily commutes and at the race track.
Top speed has been increased to more than 180 mph with the manual transmission (173 mph in the automatic).
SRT engineers recalibrated the suspension geometry to improve Challenger’s balance, cornering ability and steering responsiveness. Quicker steering ratios and new negative camber settings all around dramatically improve Challenger’s appetite for high-speed cornering.
The performance SRT-tuned, fully hydraulic steering system also has been improved with a new, heavy-duty pump and revised gearing to give drivers more direct feel and on-center response.
The result: the 2011 Challenger SRT8 392 is capable of .93g on the skid pad—the most of any production Challenger and on par with some of the world’s best-handling performance coupes.