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Car Profiles
Just another Car Blog
The Dodge Challenger Convertible
Blogs, car sites, and automobile have been hyping up the concept Dodge Challenger to the point at which you would think the automobile is almost ready to roll off a DCX assembly line. To say that the prototype is being well received is an understatement — quite honestly if the Challenger was available for sale today the waiting list would be many months long. Such is the requirement for a retro automobile that takes its styling cues right from the ‘71 Challenger.
As it now stands, the auto will be built as DaimlerChrysler has given its blessing to the new Challenger. Still, the Challenger is more than three years from being manufactured as it is likely to be released some time during 2009 as a 2010 model. Yes, the wait will be hard for many, but if the hype equals the performance, then the wait will actually be worth your while.
Some people are against the entire retro car revolution. Citing that Detroit must reach back in time to make relevant cars is a sworn statement to the each automaker’s problems. To the contrary, I suspect the many revived models now being planned or already on our streets is a clear testimony to Detroit ultimately listening to its patrons : we need vehicles that are uniquely styled and we would like them to perform precisely the way you may say they’ll perform. No fake hood scoops, no heralded model name slapped on a car that pales in comparison to the original. No, we don’t want you to build the first model we would like you to build the first model better. Take the styling cues and run with them and incorporate modern technology to improve on the first design. That’s all we ask.
So, just what can fans expect when they take delivery of their Challenger? Well, like I said the automobile is still in the planning stages, but what I have gleaned from varied sites is the following information:
Modified Platform — If you like the Mercedes based LX platform now used to run the Chrysler three hundred, Dodge Magnum, and Dodge Charger then the LY platform will suit you too. DCX is preparing to modify the LX platform for its next generation of vehicles and the LY based Challenger will be one of many cars built upon it. Some have recommended the LY will be the LX on steroids, whatever that means.
Did Someone Say Hemi? — Each Mopar product of significance will have optional Hemi power and the Challenger is not an exception. Expect a V6 to be standard with the optional Hemi V8 for performance versions of the auto. Some have suggested the the 425 h.p. SRT 6.1L V8 will also be made available for the Challenger.
Ragtop Regalia — Chrysler says that the Sebring will be its only convertible offering, but that leaves Dodge dealers without a soft top car to market [other than the Snake , of course]. In spite of this bit of info, look for a Challenger convertible to turn up one or 2 years after the car’s debut. Heck, if DCX does not want to build one then OEM coach builders will do the job for them. You can bet that Dodge dealers will make these agreements if DCX doesn’t.
Yes, the Challenger will not be in new automobile showrooms shortly. For those of us waiting with “baited breath” we’ll have to console ourselves with the many blogs, sites, and vehicle shows hyping the car. Other than that, try and imagine your shiny new Challenger stopped at a traffic light with a Mustang on one side and a Camaro on the other side….
Do you like fast cars? If yes, you may also visit thesupercars.org to get more information about the fastest cars in the world. Also, you might want to check out Dodge Avenger used.
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