These comments were posted on Consumer Reports blog about the SEMA show:

November 17, 2008
2008 SEMA – Personal Picks

As we wind down our coverage of the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show car and component extravaganza in Las Vegas, CR’s attendees have been reflecting on the vehicles that made the greatest impression. It truly takes something special to stand out among the hundreds upon hundreds of vehicles on display. After all, these show vehicles have been specially prepared for this mega event, often built exclusively for showcasing the latest parts, trends, and building techniques. But, it isn’t always the fanciest car that fuels fantasies, nostalgia, or water-cooler discussions.

Between writing more than 20 blog posts about this year’s show, a few team members shared their personal picks. A couple others, overwhelmed by the selection, simply couldn’t decide.

John Galeotafiore: The 2009 Dodge Challenger was my clear favorite. In my early driving days, I was the proud owner of a beat-up 1971 Dodge Challenger R/T. It had a powerful 383 cubic-inch motor with a four-barrel carburetor and four-speed manual transmission. It had the most unbridled power of any car I've driven to this day.

The new Challenger pays homage to my old 1971 with all the technological advances that have come in the last 38 years. While the old car had power, its handling, ride, and comfort all left much to be desired. I'm sure Challenger purists would disagree, but I could see myself cruising to work every day in the '09 version, something that I wouldn't have wanted to do in my '71.

 

I would agree. My 71 is a nice car for driving on occasions. But I would not daily driver it I love my 71 but I would prefer a 2009 for most daily commutes and long distance driving.

 

I have to agree, my 70 was a great car and I wish I still owned it (as a fun and investment auto only). Perhaps it's just that I live with the 08, but I really am beginning to like the looks of it better than my 70....It sure is faster than my old 440 RT/SE ever was......(Never dreamed that I would someday own a "Hemi" Challenger..........just saying that is sweet.....................

 

Well, I'm glad to hear that at least some people who Blog at CR like the Challenger. Thanks for sharing that.