Dodge Challenger - Revision history

Silver Knight at 03:29, 6 December 2010

2010-12-06T03:29:17Z

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 :''For the new Dodge Challenger, see [[Dodge Challenger (2008)]]''
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 | [[John Herlitz]]
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 ===1970===

Yankee: /* 1970 */

2010-10-12T20:55:25Z

1970

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:55, 12 October 2010
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	===1970===		===1970===

	The Challenger was built on an all-new E-body platform, which was a shortened B-body [[Dodge Charger\|Charger]]/[[Dodge Coronet\|Coronet]] chassis, but the Challenger's wheelbase was 2" longer than the Barracuda's, and although they were corporate twins, they shared no body panels. The Challenger could be outfitted with just about any option, several different model configurations and every engine in Chrysler's lineup including the holy-grail 426 Hemi on R/T (Road/Track) models. There were base, SE, R/T and T/A models to choose from, and the SE and R/T model could be overlapped. Coupe and convertibles were available on all versions except the T/A, which was hardtop only.		The Challenger was built on an all-new E-body platform, which was a shortened B-body [[Dodge Charger\|Charger]]/[[Dodge Coronet\|Coronet]] chassis, but the Challenger's wheelbase was 2" longer than the Barracuda's, and although they were corporate twins, they shared no body panels. The Challenger could be outfitted with just about any option, several different model configurations and every engine in Chrysler's lineup including the holy-grail 426 Hemi on R/T (Road/Track) models. There were base, '''SE''', '''R/T''' and '''T/A''' models to choose from, and the SE and R/T model could be overlapped. Coupe and convertibles were available on all versions except the T/A, which was hardtop only.

	Base models could have a 145 hp 3.7L (225 cid) Slant-6, 230 hp 5.2L (318 cid) V8 (standard on the SE) or a 6.2L (383 cid) V8 in 2- or 4-bbl guise (275 and 330 hp respectively). The 275 hp 5.5L (340 cid) V8 was also available on the base. The base engine for the R/T was the 335 hp 383-4 Magnum. Optional was the 7.2L (440 cid) Magnum V8 with a 4- or 6-bbl (6-Pack) setup (375 and 390 hp respectively). And, of course, the 425 hp 7.0L (426 cid) Hemi. The lone engine choice on the T/A model was a 290 hp 340 6-pack V8 with either an automatic or a 4-speed tranny. Got all that?		Base models could have a 145 hp 3.7L (225 cid) Slant-6, 230 hp 5.2L (318 cid) V8 (standard on the SE) or a 6.2L (383 cid) V8 in 2- or 4-bbl guise (275 and 330 hp respectively). The 275 hp 5.5L (340 cid) V8 was also available on the base. The base engine for the R/T was the 335 hp 383-4 Magnum. Optional was the 7.2L (440 cid) Magnum V8 with a 4- or 6-bbl (6-Pack) setup (375 and 390 hp respectively). And, of course, the 425 hp 7.0L (426 cid) Hemi. The lone engine choice on the T/A model was a 290 hp 340 6-pack V8 with either an automatic or a 4-speed tranny. Got all that?

173.161.63.249: /* 2010 */

2010-02-03T02:06:38Z

2010

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:06, 3 February 2010
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	===2010===		===2010===

			Despite pervasive rumors of the contrary, Chrysler returned the mighty Challenger to production after emerging from bankruptcy. While the news of the return was welcome, changes to the car were few as colors were the only real differences from the 2009 models. The biggest change was the removal of Hemi Orange from the Challenger lineup. In its place, B5 Blue was added as a normal production color. Taking B5 Blue's place on the special edition color lineup were two heritage colors: Detonator Yellow and Plum Crazy Purple. Detonator Yellow was limited to the first few months of production while Plum Crazy Purple will be used as the Spring Special option.

			===Resurgence of the Musclecar===

	[[Chevrolet]] debuted a new [[Chevrolet Camaro\|Camaro]] in April 2009 as an early 2010 model, and Ford now has a new restyled Mustang available (also as an early 2010 model)... so the pony car market is ablaze once again. Unfortunately, [[Plymouth]] is no more, so there will be no [[Plymouth Barracuda\|Barracuda]], [[Pontiac]] is slated to be follow the same fate as Plymouth after the 2010 model year, so obviously a new [[Pontiac Firebird\|Firebird]] won't happen, and [[AMC]] became history in 1988, so obviously another Javelin is out of the question as well... but for those who have been holding out faith for another good ol' American ponycar V8 shootout once again, their patience has hereby been rewarded.		[[Chevrolet]] debuted a new [[Chevrolet Camaro\|Camaro]] in April 2009 as an early 2010 model, and Ford now has a new restyled Mustang available (also as an early 2010 model)... so the pony car market is ablaze once again. Unfortunately, [[Plymouth]] is no more, so there will be no [[Plymouth Barracuda\|Barracuda]], [[Pontiac]] is slated to be follow the same fate as Plymouth after the 2010 model year, so obviously a new [[Pontiac Firebird\|Firebird]] won't happen, and [[AMC]] became history in 1988, so obviously another Javelin is out of the question as well... but for those who have been holding out faith for another good ol' American ponycar V8 shootout once again, their patience has hereby been rewarded.

173.161.63.249: /* 2009 */

2010-02-03T02:02:09Z

2009

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:02, 3 February 2010
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	===2009===		===2009===

	For 2009, Chrysler ~~finally~~ filled out the Challenger lineup despite a failing economy. In addition to the SRT8, buyers could also have two other flavors of the Challenger, including the mid-range R/T and the SE while Canadians could buy an SXT derivative of the SE package. The R/T featured a 5.7-liter version of the Hemi that was rated at 375 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, budget-minded SE and SXT buyers were given a 3.5-liter High Output V6 rated at 250 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque mated to a four-speed automatic transmissions. Also, SRT8 and R/T owners could also buy a 6-speed manual transmission made by Tremec. Surprisingly, this was the first time a modern Hemi production car was mated to a manual transmission since their debut more than five years earlier. For 2009, buyers could partake in special edition models, such as the R/T Classic and Spring Special SRT8.		For 2009, Chrysler filled out the Challenger lineup despite a failing economy. In addition to the existing SRT8, buyers could also have two other flavors of the Challenger, including the mid-range R/T and the SE while Canadians could buy an SXT derivative of the SE package. The R/T featured a 5.7-liter version of the Hemi that was rated at 375 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, budget-minded SE and SXT buyers were given a 3.5-liter High Output V6 rated at 250 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque mated to a four-speed automatic transmissions. Also, SRT8 and R/T owners could also buy a 6-speed manual transmission made by Tremec. Surprisingly, this was the first time a modern Hemi production car was mated to a manual transmission since their debut more than five years earlier.

			For 2009, buyers could partake in special edition models, such as the R/T Classic and Spring Special SRT8. The R/T Classic was given 'heritage stripes' package in addition to 20-inch chrome-clad wheels that mimicked classic five-spoke rims from the previous musclecar era. Most R/T Classics were painted in the returning B5 Blue color, a color that was a popular color from Chrysler's heyday in the late 60s and early 1970s. The Spring Special package was a derivative of the R/T Classic in that it was essentially a SRT8 painted in the same B5 Blue color along with blue striping on the seats. Thanks to Chrysler's financial troubles and impending rolling plant shutdowns, the production of 2009 R/T Classics and Spring Specials was extremely limited, with less than 240 examples of Spring Special SRT8s ever made.

	===2010===		===2010===

173.161.63.249: /* The NEW Dodge Challenger */

2010-02-03T01:55:36Z

The NEW Dodge Challenger

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:55, 3 February 2010
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	[[Image:2009-challenger-concept.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Dodge Challenger Concept]]		[[Image:2009-challenger-concept.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Dodge Challenger Concept]]
	From the Challenger's dark and waning days of 1974, fast forward to year 2006. Chrysler, now partnered with (of all people) [[Fiat]] (as of June 2009), thankfully chose to revive the Challenger for 2008 as a late-model year release. While it retains much of the same look as the original, the '08 was available as a top-dog SRT model only with a 425 hp 6.1L (370 cid) V8 with a 5-speed automatic transmission (for those keeping score, that is as much ''net'' horsepower as the almighty 426 Hemi had as a ''gross'' horsepower rating). It's based, once again, on a shortened Charger platform, just as the original was. Additionally, this [http://www.newdodgechallenger.net new Challenger] has the tires and suspension to actually stop, corner and handle unlike the original, has (in SRT trim) 170+ MPH capability - and gets decent gas mileage to boot (relatively speaking). When the Challenger prototype was released at the 2006 Detroit NAIAS, approving onlookers had but 2 words to say: '''BUILD IT!'''.		From the Challenger's dark and waning days of 1974, fast forward to year 2006. Chrysler, now partnered with (of all people) [[Fiat]] (as of June 2009), thankfully chose to revive the Challenger for 2008 as a late-model year release. While it retains much of the same look as the original, the '08 was available as a top-dog SRT model only with a 425 hp 6.1L (370 cid) V8 with a 5-speed automatic transmission (for those keeping score, that is as much ''net'' horsepower as the almighty 426 Hemi had as a ''gross'' horsepower rating). It's based, once again, on a shortened Charger platform, just as the original was. Additionally, this [http://www.newdodgechallenger.net new Challenger] has the tires and suspension to actually stop, corner and handle unlike the original, has (in SRT trim) 170+ MPH capability - and gets decent gas mileage to boot (relatively speaking). When the Challenger prototype was released at the 2006 Detroit NAIAS, approving onlookers had but 2 words to say: '''BUILD IT!'''.

			===2008===

	And build it Chrysler did as the production model debuted in 2008. With just 6,400 units released in the U.S. for the 2008 model year, nearly all of that lot was presold after the overwhelming popularity of the 2006 concept. For the first year, all of the Challengers were released in the top-of-the-line SRT trim with the 6.1-liter Hemi with 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The only colors available for the 2008 model year were Hemi Orange, Brilliant Black, TorRed, and Bright Silver Mettalic. While all LX-platform Challengers, Chargers, 300s, and discontinued Magnums were built in Canada, the country was only alotted a run of 500 cars for the 2008 model year to bring the production total to 6900.		And build it Chrysler did as the production model debuted in 2008. With just 6,400 units released in the U.S. for the 2008 model year, nearly all of that lot was presold after the overwhelming popularity of the 2006 concept. For the first year, all of the Challengers were released in the top-of-the-line SRT trim with the 6.1-liter Hemi with 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The only colors available for the 2008 model year were Hemi Orange, Brilliant Black, TorRed, and Bright Silver Mettalic. While all LX-platform Challengers, Chargers, 300s, and discontinued Magnums were built in Canada, the country was only alotted a run of 500 cars for the 2008 model year to bring the production total to 6900.

			===2009===

	For 2009, Chrysler finally filled out the Challenger lineup despite a failing economy. In addition to the SRT8, buyers could also have two other flavors of the Challenger, including the mid-range R/T and the SE while Canadians could buy an SXT derivative of the SE package. The R/T featured a 5.7-liter version of the Hemi that was rated at 375 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, budget-minded SE and SXT buyers were given a 3.5-liter High Output V6 rated at 250 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque mated to a four-speed automatic transmissions. Also, SRT8 and R/T owners could also buy a 6-speed manual transmission made by Tremec. Surprisingly, this was the first time a modern Hemi production car was mated to a manual transmission since their debut more than five years earlier. For 2009, buyers could partake in special edition models, such as the R/T Classic and Spring Special SRT8.		For 2009, Chrysler finally filled out the Challenger lineup despite a failing economy. In addition to the SRT8, buyers could also have two other flavors of the Challenger, including the mid-range R/T and the SE while Canadians could buy an SXT derivative of the SE package. The R/T featured a 5.7-liter version of the Hemi that was rated at 375 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, budget-minded SE and SXT buyers were given a 3.5-liter High Output V6 rated at 250 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque mated to a four-speed automatic transmissions. Also, SRT8 and R/T owners could also buy a 6-speed manual transmission made by Tremec. Surprisingly, this was the first time a modern Hemi production car was mated to a manual transmission since their debut more than five years earlier. For 2009, buyers could partake in special edition models, such as the R/T Classic and Spring Special SRT8.

			===2010===

	[[Chevrolet]] debuted a new [[Chevrolet Camaro\|Camaro]] in April 2009 as an early 2010 model, and Ford now has a new restyled Mustang available (also as an early 2010 model)... so the pony car market is ablaze once again. Unfortunately, [[Plymouth]] is no more, so there will be no [[Plymouth Barracuda\|Barracuda]], [[Pontiac]] is slated to be follow the same fate as Plymouth after the 2010 model year, so obviously a new [[Pontiac Firebird\|Firebird]] won't happen, and [[AMC]] became history in 1988, so obviously another Javelin is out of the question as well... but for those who have been holding out faith for another good ol' American ponycar V8 shootout once again, their patience has hereby been rewarded.		[[Chevrolet]] debuted a new [[Chevrolet Camaro\|Camaro]] in April 2009 as an early 2010 model, and Ford now has a new restyled Mustang available (also as an early 2010 model)... so the pony car market is ablaze once again. Unfortunately, [[Plymouth]] is no more, so there will be no [[Plymouth Barracuda\|Barracuda]], [[Pontiac]] is slated to be follow the same fate as Plymouth after the 2010 model year, so obviously a new [[Pontiac Firebird\|Firebird]] won't happen, and [[AMC]] became history in 1988, so obviously another Javelin is out of the question as well... but for those who have been holding out faith for another good ol' American ponycar V8 shootout once again, their patience has hereby been rewarded.

173.161.63.249: /* The NEW Dodge Challenger */

2010-02-03T01:54:24Z

The NEW Dodge Challenger

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:54, 3 February 2010
Line 115:		Line 115:
	From the Challenger's dark and waning days of 1974, fast forward to year 2006. Chrysler, now partnered with (of all people) [[Fiat]] (as of June 2009), thankfully chose to revive the Challenger for 2008 as a late-model year release. While it retains much of the same look as the original, the '08 was available as a top-dog SRT model only with a 425 hp 6.1L (370 cid) V8 with a 5-speed automatic transmission (for those keeping score, that is as much ''net'' horsepower as the almighty 426 Hemi had as a ''gross'' horsepower rating). It's based, once again, on a shortened Charger platform, just as the original was. Additionally, this [http://www.newdodgechallenger.net new Challenger] has the tires and suspension to actually stop, corner and handle unlike the original, has (in SRT trim) 170+ MPH capability - and gets decent gas mileage to boot (relatively speaking). When the Challenger prototype was released at the 2006 Detroit NAIAS, approving onlookers had but 2 words to say: '''BUILD IT!'''.		From the Challenger's dark and waning days of 1974, fast forward to year 2006. Chrysler, now partnered with (of all people) [[Fiat]] (as of June 2009), thankfully chose to revive the Challenger for 2008 as a late-model year release. While it retains much of the same look as the original, the '08 was available as a top-dog SRT model only with a 425 hp 6.1L (370 cid) V8 with a 5-speed automatic transmission (for those keeping score, that is as much ''net'' horsepower as the almighty 426 Hemi had as a ''gross'' horsepower rating). It's based, once again, on a shortened Charger platform, just as the original was. Additionally, this [http://www.newdodgechallenger.net new Challenger] has the tires and suspension to actually stop, corner and handle unlike the original, has (in SRT trim) 170+ MPH capability - and gets decent gas mileage to boot (relatively speaking). When the Challenger prototype was released at the 2006 Detroit NAIAS, approving onlookers had but 2 words to say: '''BUILD IT!'''.

	And build it Chrysler did. [[Chevrolet]] debuted a new [[Chevrolet Camaro\|Camaro]] in April 2009 as an early 2010 model, and Ford now has a new restyled Mustang available (also as an early 2010 model)... so the pony car market is ablaze once again. Unfortunately, [[Plymouth]] is no more, so there will be no [[Plymouth Barracuda\|Barracuda]], [[Pontiac]] is slated to be follow the same fate as Plymouth after the 2010 model year, so obviously a new [[Pontiac Firebird\|Firebird]] won't happen, and [[AMC]] became history in 1988, so obviously another Javelin is out of the question as well... but for those who have been holding out faith for another good ol' American ponycar V8 shootout once again, their patience has hereby been rewarded.		And build it Chrysler did as the production model debuted in 2008. With just 6,400 units released in the U.S. for the 2008 model year, nearly all of that lot was presold after the overwhelming popularity of the 2006 concept. For the first year, all of the Challengers were released in the top-of-the-line SRT trim with the 6.1-liter Hemi with 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The only colors available for the 2008 model year were Hemi Orange, Brilliant Black, TorRed, and Bright Silver Mettalic. While all LX-platform Challengers, Chargers, 300s, and discontinued Magnums were built in Canada, the country was only alotted a run of 500 cars for the 2008 model year to bring the production total to 6900.

			For 2009, Chrysler finally filled out the Challenger lineup despite a failing economy. In addition to the SRT8, buyers could also have two other flavors of the Challenger, including the mid-range R/T and the SE while Canadians could buy an SXT derivative of the SE package. The R/T featured a 5.7-liter version of the Hemi that was rated at 375 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. Meanwhile, budget-minded SE and SXT buyers were given a 3.5-liter High Output V6 rated at 250 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque mated to a four-speed automatic transmissions. Also, SRT8 and R/T owners could also buy a 6-speed manual transmission made by Tremec. Surprisingly, this was the first time a modern Hemi production car was mated to a manual transmission since their debut more than five years earlier. For 2009, buyers could partake in special edition models, such as the R/T Classic and Spring Special SRT8.

			[[Chevrolet]] debuted a new [[Chevrolet Camaro\|Camaro]] in April 2009 as an early 2010 model, and Ford now has a new restyled Mustang available (also as an early 2010 model)... so the pony car market is ablaze once again. Unfortunately, [[Plymouth]] is no more, so there will be no [[Plymouth Barracuda\|Barracuda]], [[Pontiac]] is slated to be follow the same fate as Plymouth after the 2010 model year, so obviously a new [[Pontiac Firebird\|Firebird]] won't happen, and [[AMC]] became history in 1988, so obviously another Javelin is out of the question as well... but for those who have been holding out faith for another good ol' American ponycar V8 shootout once again, their patience has hereby been rewarded.

	Recently added to the model lineup is a special edition car which Dodge labels as the [http://www.automobilemag.com/features/news/0807_2009_dodge_challenger_drag_race_package/index.html Drag Race Package]. Such a car brings back memories of the infamous [[Muscle Car]] era where super-stock specials were built by the factory with ridiculous horsepower power ratings! This specific car has been stripped of an extra 1,000 pounds to reduce E.T.'s by a measurable amount. Deletions include body sealer, sound deadening, a ventilation system, airbags, rear seats, windshield wiper assembly, side- and rear-impact beams and subsequently, any chance the car can be DOT-certified for the street.		Recently added to the model lineup is a special edition car which Dodge labels as the [http://www.automobilemag.com/features/news/0807_2009_dodge_challenger_drag_race_package/index.html Drag Race Package]. Such a car brings back memories of the infamous [[Muscle Car]] era where super-stock specials were built by the factory with ridiculous horsepower power ratings! This specific car has been stripped of an extra 1,000 pounds to reduce E.T.'s by a measurable amount. Deletions include body sealer, sound deadening, a ventilation system, airbags, rear seats, windshield wiper assembly, side- and rear-impact beams and subsequently, any chance the car can be DOT-certified for the street.

Yankee at 13:43, 1 October 2009

2009-10-01T13:43:23Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:43, 1 October 2009
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	The Challenger was built on an all-new E-body platform, which was a shortened B-body [[Dodge Charger\|Charger]]/[[Dodge Coronet\|Coronet]] chassis, but the Challenger's wheelbase was 2" longer than the Barracuda's, and although they were corporate twins, they shared no body panels. The Challenger could be outfitted with just about any option, several different model configurations and every engine in Chrysler's lineup including the holy-grail 426 Hemi on R/T (Road/Track) models. There were base, SE, R/T and T/A models to choose from, and the SE and R/T model could be overlapped. Coupe and convertibles were available on all versions except the T/A, which was hardtop only.		The Challenger was built on an all-new E-body platform, which was a shortened B-body [[Dodge Charger\|Charger]]/[[Dodge Coronet\|Coronet]] chassis, but the Challenger's wheelbase was 2" longer than the Barracuda's, and although they were corporate twins, they shared no body panels. The Challenger could be outfitted with just about any option, several different model configurations and every engine in Chrysler's lineup including the holy-grail 426 Hemi on R/T (Road/Track) models. There were base, SE, R/T and T/A models to choose from, and the SE and R/T model could be overlapped. Coupe and convertibles were available on all versions except the T/A, which was hardtop only.

	Base models could have a 145 hp 3.7L (225 cid) Slant-6, 230 hp 5.2L (318 cid) V8 (standard on the SE) or a 6.2L (383 cid) V8 in 2- or 4-bbl guise (275 and 330 hp respectively). The 275 hp 5.5L (340 cid) V8 was also available on the base. The base engine for the R/T was the 335 hp 383-4 Magnum. Optional was the 7.2L (440 cid) Magnum V8 with a 4- or 6-bbl (6-Pack) setup (375 and 390 hp respectively). And, of course, the 425 hp 7.0L (426 cid) Hemi. The lone engine choice on the T/A model was a 290 hp 340 6-pack V8. Got all that?		Base models could have a 145 hp 3.7L (225 cid) Slant-6, 230 hp 5.2L (318 cid) V8 (standard on the SE) or a 6.2L (383 cid) V8 in 2- or 4-bbl guise (275 and 330 hp respectively). The 275 hp 5.5L (340 cid) V8 was also available on the base. The base engine for the R/T was the 335 hp 383-4 Magnum. Optional was the 7.2L (440 cid) Magnum V8 with a 4- or 6-bbl (6-Pack) setup (375 and 390 hp respectively). And, of course, the 425 hp 7.0L (426 cid) Hemi. The lone engine choice on the T/A model was a 290 hp 340 6-pack V8 with either an automatic or a 4-speed tranny. Got all that?

	Their options list was equally exhausting, being available with such niceties as power windows, cruise control, air conditioning (except the 440-6 or the Hemi)... the list went on (literally). Hardtop SE models differed visually from base and R/T models by having a standard vinyl roof with a smaller formal back window than the rest. Optional on SE was an overhead console with low-fuel, door-ajar, and seat-belt lights. 4-speed manuals and 3-speed automatics were available on all engines, and 3-speed manuals could be had on all but the 440-4, 440-6 and the Hemi.		Their options list was equally exhausting, being available with such niceties as power windows, cruise control, air conditioning (except the 440-6 or the Hemi)... the list went on (literally). Hardtop SE models differed visually from base and R/T models by having a standard vinyl roof with a smaller formal back window than the rest. Automatic models could have either a console or a column shifter, and 4-speed models had the now very-desirable pistol-grip shifter. Optional on SE was an overhead console with low-fuel, door-ajar, and seat-belt lights. 4-speed manuals and 3-speed automatics were available on all engines, and 3-speed manuals could be had on all but the 440-4, 440-6 and the Hemi.

	1970 was the highest-year selling Challenger, at almost 80,000 units altogether (including the T/A) and, to many Challenger fans, the most desirable.		1970 was the highest-year selling Challenger, at almost 80,000 units altogether (including the T/A) and, to many Challenger fans, the most desirable.
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	===1971===		===1971===

	Visual changes for this year was a new divided grille and the taillights were now separated with individual reverse lights in the middle, versus one single reverse light in the middle of last years single taillight design. The T/A was no more (although a look-alike package was offered with the black scooped hood and "go wing", but without the 340-6 engine) and there was some other shuffling of trim and packages as well. The R/T was no longer available as a convertible, the SE model lost its distinctive small rear window design, and the 340 was ~~officially~~ now standard in the R/T models. R/Ts also gained non-functioning lower side gills (2) on the front of the quarter panels, and could have a new "R/T" decal on the front center portion of the hood. The ~~previous~~ 383, 440-6 (down 5 hp to 385) and 426 Hemi were still available carried over from last year, but the 440-4 was no longer available. Base ~~and SEs~~ still had the 225 Slant-6, 318, or 383 with 2- or 4-bbl carb.		Visual changes for this year was a new divided grille and the taillights were now separated with individual reverse lights in the middle, versus one single reverse light in the middle of last years single taillight design. The automatic floor shifter now had a T-handle design instead of the round design. The T/A was no more (although a look-alike package was offered with the black scooped hood and "go wing", but without the 340-6 engine) and there was some other shuffling of trim and packages as well. The R/T was no longer available as a convertible, the SE model lost its distinctive small rear window design, and the 340 was now standard in the R/T models. R/Ts also gained non-functioning lower side gills (2) on the front of the quarter panels, and could have a new "R/T" decal on the front center portion of the hood. The 383-4 Magnum (down 35 hp to 300), 440-6 (down 5 hp to 385) and 426 Hemi (still rated at 425 hp) were still available carried over from last year, but the 440-4 was no longer available. Base models still had the 225 Slant-6, 318 (standard on the SE), 340 or 383 with 2- or 4-bbl carb.

	Sales were unfortunately way down compared to last year, as the muscle/pony car market started taking huge sales and horsepower hits, averaging about only 30,000 units this year.		Sales were unfortunately way down compared to last year, as the muscle/pony car market started taking huge sales and horsepower hits, averaging about only 30,000 units this year.
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	===1974===		===1974===

	The final Challenger was visually unchanged from the 1973 model. The 340 was dropped, replaced by the 5.9L (360 cid) V8. Base and Rallye models continued, either available with the 318 or 360. The pony car market was clearly drying up by this time, and the Challenger had quickly lost its way despite a promising start. By this time, the Ford Mustang had been downsized to the lowly [[Ford Pinto\|Pinto]] platform, the [[Mercury Cougar]] was now a mid-size personal-luxury car based on the [[Ford Torino\|Torino]], and even [[AMC]] realized they were fighting a losing battle as well, as they would discontinue the [[AMC Javelin\|Javelin]] altogether at the end of this year. The Challenger and Barracuda would unfortunately suffer the same fate.		The final Challenger was visually unchanged from the 1973 model. The 340 was dropped, replaced by the 5.9L (360 cid) V8. Base and Rallye models continued, either available with the 318 or 360. The pony car market was clearly drying up by this time, and the Challenger had quickly lost its way despite a promising start. By this time, the Ford Mustang had been downsized to the lowly [[Ford Pinto\|Pinto]] platform, the [[Mercury Cougar]] was now a mid-size personal-luxury car based on the [[Ford Torino\|Torino]], and even [[AMC]] realized they were fighting a losing battle as well, as they would discontinue the [[AMC Javelin\|Javelin]] altogether at the end of this year. The Challenger and Barracuda would unfortunately suffer the same fate mid-way thru the 1974 model year.

	This would be the last the world would ever see or hear of a Dodge Challenger muscle car... or would it?		This would be the last the world would ever see or hear of a Dodge Challenger muscle car... or would it?

Yankee: /* 1970 */

2009-10-01T13:27:45Z

1970

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	The Challenger was built on an all-new E-body platform, which was a shortened B-body [[Dodge Charger\|Charger]]/[[Dodge Coronet\|Coronet]] chassis, but the Challenger's wheelbase was 2" longer than the Barracuda's, and although they were corporate twins, they shared no body panels. The Challenger could be outfitted with just about any option, several different model configurations and every engine in Chrysler's lineup including the holy-grail 426 Hemi on R/T (Road/Track) models. There were base, SE, R/T and T/A models to choose from, and the SE and R/T model could be overlapped. Coupe and convertibles were available on all versions except the T/A, which was hardtop only.		The Challenger was built on an all-new E-body platform, which was a shortened B-body [[Dodge Charger\|Charger]]/[[Dodge Coronet\|Coronet]] chassis, but the Challenger's wheelbase was 2" longer than the Barracuda's, and although they were corporate twins, they shared no body panels. The Challenger could be outfitted with just about any option, several different model configurations and every engine in Chrysler's lineup including the holy-grail 426 Hemi on R/T (Road/Track) models. There were base, SE, R/T and T/A models to choose from, and the SE and R/T model could be overlapped. Coupe and convertibles were available on all versions except the T/A, which was hardtop only.

	Base models could have a 145 hp 3.7L (225 cid) Slant-6, 230 hp 5.2L (318 cid) V8 (standard on the SE) or a 6.2L (383 cid) V8 in 2- or 4-bbl guise (275 and ~~300~~ hp respectively). The base engine for the R/T ~~technically~~ was the 335 hp 383-4~~, but the 275 hp 5.5L (340 cid) V8 could be had too if one didn't want a big block~~. Optional was the 7.2L (440 cid) V8 with a 4- or 6-bbl (6-Pack) setup (375 and 390 hp respectively). And, of course, the 425 hp 7.0L (426 cid) Hemi. The lone engine choice on the T/A model was a 290 hp 340 6-pack V8. Got all that?		Base models could have a 145 hp 3.7L (225 cid) Slant-6, 230 hp 5.2L (318 cid) V8 (standard on the SE) or a 6.2L (383 cid) V8 in 2- or 4-bbl guise (275 and 330 hp respectively). The 275 hp 5.5L (340 cid) V8 was also available on the base. The base engine for the R/T was the 335 hp 383-4 Magnum. Optional was the 7.2L (440 cid) Magnum V8 with a 4- or 6-bbl (6-Pack) setup (375 and 390 hp respectively). And, of course, the 425 hp 7.0L (426 cid) Hemi. The lone engine choice on the T/A model was a 290 hp 340 6-pack V8. Got all that?

	Their options list was equally exhausting, being available with such niceties as power windows, cruise control, air conditioning (except the 440-6 or the Hemi)... the list went on (literally). Hardtop SE models differed visually from base and R/T models by having a standard vinyl roof with a smaller formal back window than the rest. Optional on SE was an overhead console with low-fuel, door-ajar, and seat-belt lights. 4-speed manuals and 3-speed automatics were available on all engines, and 3-speed manuals could be had on all but the ~~383~~-4, 440-6 and the Hemi.		Their options list was equally exhausting, being available with such niceties as power windows, cruise control, air conditioning (except the 440-6 or the Hemi)... the list went on (literally). Hardtop SE models differed visually from base and R/T models by having a standard vinyl roof with a smaller formal back window than the rest. Optional on SE was an overhead console with low-fuel, door-ajar, and seat-belt lights. 4-speed manuals and 3-speed automatics were available on all engines, and 3-speed manuals could be had on all but the 440-4, 440-6 and the Hemi.

	1970 was the highest-year selling Challenger, at almost 80,000 units altogether (including the T/A) and, to many Challenger fans, the most desirable.		1970 was the highest-year selling Challenger, at almost 80,000 units altogether (including the T/A) and, to many Challenger fans, the most desirable.

Yankee: /* The NEW Dodge Challenger */

2009-06-17T02:35:22Z

The NEW Dodge Challenger

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	==[[Dodge Challenger (2008)\|The NEW Dodge Challenger]]==		==[[Dodge Challenger (2008)\|The NEW Dodge Challenger]]==
	[[Image:2009-challenger-concept.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Dodge Challenger Concept]]		[[Image:2009-challenger-concept.jpg\|right\|thumb\|250px\|Dodge Challenger Concept]]
	From the Challenger's dark and waning days of 1974, fast forward to year 2006. Chrysler, now ~~owned by~~ [[~~Cerberus~~]] ~~Capital Management~~, thankfully chose to revive the Challenger for 2008 as a late-model year release. While it retains much of the same look as the original, the '08 was available as a top-dog SRT model only with a 425 hp 6.1L (370 cid) V8 with a 5-speed automatic transmission (for those keeping score, that is as much ''net'' horsepower as the almighty 426 Hemi had as a ''gross'' horsepower rating). It's based, once again, on a shortened Charger platform, just as the original was. Additionally, this [http://www.newdodgechallenger.net new Challenger] has the tires and suspension to actually stop, corner and handle unlike the original, has (in SRT trim) 170+ MPH capability - and gets decent gas mileage to boot (relatively speaking). When the Challenger prototype was released at the 2006 Detroit NAIAS, approving onlookers had but 2 words to say: '''BUILD IT!'''.		From the Challenger's dark and waning days of 1974, fast forward to year 2006. Chrysler, now partnered with (of all people) [[Fiat]] (as of June 2009), thankfully chose to revive the Challenger for 2008 as a late-model year release. While it retains much of the same look as the original, the '08 was available as a top-dog SRT model only with a 425 hp 6.1L (370 cid) V8 with a 5-speed automatic transmission (for those keeping score, that is as much ''net'' horsepower as the almighty 426 Hemi had as a ''gross'' horsepower rating). It's based, once again, on a shortened Charger platform, just as the original was. Additionally, this [http://www.newdodgechallenger.net new Challenger] has the tires and suspension to actually stop, corner and handle unlike the original, has (in SRT trim) 170+ MPH capability - and gets decent gas mileage to boot (relatively speaking). When the Challenger prototype was released at the 2006 Detroit NAIAS, approving onlookers had but 2 words to say: '''BUILD IT!'''.

	And build it Chrysler did. [[Chevrolet]] debuted a new [[Chevrolet Camaro\|Camaro]] in April 2009 as an early 2010 model, and Ford now has a new restyled Mustang available (also as an early 2010 model)... so the pony car market is ablaze once again. Unfortunately, [[Plymouth]] is no more, so there will be no [[Plymouth Barracuda\|Barracuda]], [[Pontiac]] is slated to be follow the same fate as Plymouth after the 2010 model year, so obviously a new [[Pontiac Firebird\|Firebird]] won't happen, and [[AMC]] became history in 1988, so obviously another Javelin is out of the question as well... but for those who have been holding out faith for another good ol' American ponycar V8 shootout once again, their patience has hereby been rewarded.		And build it Chrysler did. [[Chevrolet]] debuted a new [[Chevrolet Camaro\|Camaro]] in April 2009 as an early 2010 model, and Ford now has a new restyled Mustang available (also as an early 2010 model)... so the pony car market is ablaze once again. Unfortunately, [[Plymouth]] is no more, so there will be no [[Plymouth Barracuda\|Barracuda]], [[Pontiac]] is slated to be follow the same fate as Plymouth after the 2010 model year, so obviously a new [[Pontiac Firebird\|Firebird]] won't happen, and [[AMC]] became history in 1988, so obviously another Javelin is out of the question as well... but for those who have been holding out faith for another good ol' American ponycar V8 shootout once again, their patience has hereby been rewarded.

Yankee: /* 1972 */

2009-05-29T17:59:57Z

1972

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	===1972===		===1972===

	The party was over as far as SE, R/T, big-block engines and convertible bodystyles (and the previous high-impact colors, such as Plum Crazy Purple) were concerned - they were all gone, never to return. The R/T was replaced by a new '''Rallye''' version, and was available with either the 318 or 340, with either the 3- or 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic. Rallyes could be had with various striping packages on the hood or side panels (or both). The Slant-6 was still standard in the base model. 1972 models differed from last year with a new grille design (some have referred to this as the "frowning grille" design) and the quad headlights in four separate individual slots. The taillight panel was all new as well with a brushed-aluminum design, and included the taillights and reverse lights in their own separate slots as well. A new 2-spoke steering wheel debuted this year also. Sales decreased to less than 26,000 total units.		The party was over as far as SE, R/T, big-block engines and convertible bodystyles (and the previous high-impact colors, such as Plum Crazy Purple) were concerned - they were all gone, never to return. The R/T was replaced by a new '''Rallye''' version, and was available with either the 318 or 340, with either the 3- or 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic. Rallyes could be had with various striping packages on the hood or side panels (or both). The Slant-6 was still standard in the base model. 1972 models differed from last year with a new grille design (some have referred to this as the "frowning grille" design) and the quad headlights in four separate individual slots. The taillight panel was all new as well with a brushed-aluminum design (blacked-out on the Rallye models), and included the taillights and reverse lights in their own separate slots as well. A new 2-spoke steering wheel debuted this year also. Sales decreased to less than 26,000 total units.

	===1973===		===1973===