Feb
28
The Dodge Challenger vs. the Asian Sports Car – Death of the Muscle Car?
Filed Under Autos, Trucks and More
Several things can be said about the Dodge Challenger series: including the strong reaction most buyers have towards their car. The six-cylinder engine is at the core of the strong emotions, it is powerful for its class and delivers a huge amount of torque. The comparable Japanese sports cars also offer a bang for the buck.
Dodge Challenger Engine Specs
The restyled Challenger SE is equipped with a Chrysler 3.5-liter six-cylinder engine that utilizes a total of 24 valves. The engine is mated to a Chrysler 4-speed transmission. This has resulted in an increase in horsepower and torque over the 2008 version.
For the 2009 Challenger, the fuel delivery system is a electronic SFI, using gasoline for fuel. A fuel-injected MFI configuration. The gas tank holds 20.50 gallons.
The Challenger uses power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. Steering is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The car uses coil and coil springs front and rear respectively.
Vehicle Statistics
The Challenger is 192.40 inches long, inches wide, and inches high. It has a wheelbase of inches. It is able to seat 5 comfortably.
The original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) was $19,360 when new, with a dealer invoice cost of $18,218. This price was in line with the industry average price for a 2-door Coupe.
A powertrain guarantee is provided (Unlimited miles/Unlimited months), and a 36,000 mile, 36 month guarantee also comes with the Dodge Challenger.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2009 Challenger gets 25 miles/gallon on the highway and only 19 in the city. This is below average for a coupe car. Insurance rates are also improved of their classic brothers. muscle car insurance can be prohibitive.
In Summary
There are several reasons why the Dodge Challenger SE sold well in 2009. Mainly the increase in availability and a marked improvement in quality meant the buying public was more apt to choose a Dodge, specifically a Challenger. The American muscle car is not dead yet…