Mr. Norm 426 Hemi Challenger and Cuda Convertible revealed

The Dodge Challenger may not be selling like the Mustang and Camaro, but it is receiving just as much attention from the aftermarket. It's really a shame that Chrysler's financial troubles may have stopped any ideas of creating more variants of the car, but leave it to Mr. Norm to step in and fill the void.

Norm Kraus is the owner of Grand Spaulding Dodge in Chicago, and has been creating hopped up and modified versions of legendary Chrysler cars for a long time. And now he has created two void filling cars for Chrysler's muscle car lineup, a 426 Hemi Challenger and a Cuda convertible.

Much like Mr. Norm's previous iteration of the Challenger, both the Hemi and the Cuda take much of their styling cues straight from the 70's. The Cuda sports a new grill inspired by the 1971 model, along with a shaker hood, billboard Hemi graphics, a little modified body work, and tailights from a '71 Hemi Cuda.

Backing up the looks is a 426ci Hemi that puts out 725hp thanks in large part to a Kenne Bell supercharger. The engine features all forged internals and is backed up with a Dana 44 differential to handle the power. Check out the press release below for full details.

PRESS RELEASE:

Introducing the new 2009 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda Convertibles from Mr. Norm, the name that's synonymous with the most incredible high performance Mopars ever built and offered to enthusiasts. Based on the Challenger SRT-8, the Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda Convertibles echo the styling and performance of the original, iconic, E-Body muscle cars that inspired the creation of these vehicles. These drop tops mark the beginning of a new chapter in the history of two legendary muscle cars that spans nearly 40 years.

The compelling presence of the original 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda can be seen in the appearance of these vehicles. Both are the result of impeccable breeding, a pedigree with genes handed down from their celebrated ancestors that can be appreciated by enthusiasts of all ages. Design cues recall themes and details readily recognizable by aficionados, and have been carefully selected and refined to imbue these mighty Mopars with the same sensation of raw excitement that set the original 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda apart from their contemporaries when they were new, and still continue to dazzle enthusiasts today. They're bold, brash, in your face and exactly what you would expect from Mr. Norm.

Supercharged 426 Hemi Power...and More

Complementing their unforgettable appearance, the Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda Convertibles deliver overwhelming performance matched with superlative handling and braking in equal proportions. In doing so, they set a new benchmark for all muscle and performance cars in their category and beyond.

The Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda Convertibles are a showcase for the latest in Gen III Hemi performance. Each of the engines is equipped with a new reciprocating assembly that includes a forged crank, rods and pistons that increase engine displacement to 7 liters, or the magic Mopar number; 426 cubic inches. Far stronger than the factory cast rods and pistons, these components provide the ultimate complement to the Mr. Norm's Signature Kenne Bell 2.8 liter twin screw supercharger that pumps up the volume of the Hemi engines to a whopping 725 pavement melting horsepower.

Backing up the performance of the thundering supercharged Hemi engines on both convertibles is the Mr. Norm's Hi Performance Rear Suspension System that replaces the stock components. The Mr. Norm's Rear Suspension System utilizes the beefy Viper SRT-10 spec Dana 44 differential that's mated to a significantly more robust driveshaft and half shafts. In addition, the 426 Hemi Convertibles also feature the Mr. Norm's Chassis Bracing Upgrade that includes frame connectors and additional bracing for a stiff unibody structure. TTI manufactured the low restriction cat back dual exhaust system that produces an aggressive exhaust note that befits a blown Hemi. Balancing out the awesome power is an AFCO fully adjustable coil over suspension system that provides great stance and handling without compromising ride quality.

Accentuating the bold stance of the Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda Convertibles is a set of classically inspired Mr. Norm's "Thrust" custom wheels that are sure to turn even the most jaded enthusiast green with envy. Inspired by the mag wheels that were popular when the first Hemi Challengers and Hemi Cuda's ruled the streets, these new forged, multi piece, 20 inch wheels evoke all of the nostalgia of the originals, with the added benefit of 21st century design and engineering. Complementing the wheels is a set of ultra high performance Pirelli tires that provide the new Mr. Norm's Hemi cars with the kind of grip that puts the bias ply wide boots of yesterday to shame.

Authentic Design

The appearance of the Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda Convertibles doesn't merely hint at the rippling Hemi power beneath their sensuous skins, it conveys it loud and clear. Authentic E-Body influenced themes resonate through every inch of the Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda Convertibles.

The front of the Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Cuda sets the tone for the entire vehicle with its bold '71 Hemi Cuda inspired grille and dedicated 'Cuda Shaker hood that features a recreation of the exquisitely proportioned original Hemi Cuda Shaker by Mr. Norm's Garage. Remaining faithful to its 'Cuda heritage are new 2009 Cuda quarter panels, also by Mr. Norm's Garage, that feature the correct horizontal character line that completely differentiates it from its Challenger stable mate, matched with bold Hemi billboard graphics and bright trimmed 'Cuda Fender Gills. The attention to detail continues in the rear, where Mr. Norm's Garage incorporates actual 1971 Hemi Cuda tail light assemblies that flank a custom tail panel with genuine '71 'Cuda script. Hemi Cuda exhaust tips exit conspicuously from the rear fascia, calling attention to the consistent detail and design continuity that this vehicle conveys. The Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger showcases the same attention to detail with its dedicated Challenger Shaker Hood, body side graphics and Hemi Challenger exhaust tips.

The interiors of the Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda Convertibles feature glove soft Katzkin black custom leather and suede covered seats that are accented with yellow top stitching that complements exterior colors and graphics. Mr. Norm's embroidered logos grace the seatbacks and the custom carpet mats, a subtle reminder that these are very special vehicles. And in keeping with their ultra high performance theme, each of these 426 Hemi cars is equipped with a real pistol grip shifter for the six speed manual transmission, the essential component for those who revel in the thrill of shifting for themselves, and demand authenticity in their Mopars. Designed to appear like the original trendsetting Pistol Grip Shifter, these new shifters by Mr. Norm's Garage feature a carbon fiber or wood grain handle that's a mirror image of the original, mounted on a chrome plated arm.

Names that Honor a Great Legacy

Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda. No-nonsense names for no-nonsense ultra high performance vehicles. One look at them, and you know that these are two muscle cars that are not to be trifled with. The Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda pay homage to the heritage of the original Hemi Challenger and Hemi Cuda. In an era of generic look-a-like cars that have as much personality as an angry kitchen appliance, the Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda Convertibles radiate the kind of charisma that cause young and old alike to stop and stare, while creating a burning desire to own one.

The Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda represent the renaissance of the breed of automobile that is uniquely American. Without question, the beauty, strength and power of these vehicles can be seen in even their most subtle nuances. The Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda Convertibles are much more than ordinary high performance cars. By sheer virtue of their genetics, these are vehicles that link the past to the present while signaling the direction of the future.

Writing the Next Chapter in History

Pose the 2009 Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda side by side with the originals. You can easily see the resemblance between them. The bold body of the latest generation and its aggressive stance, coupled with the supercharged Hemi power that rumbles beneath the shaker hoods truly mark the next step in the advance of the classic American, big bore V8, high performance rear wheel drive muscle car. While they pay homage to the original Hemi Challenger and Hemi Cuda, these vehicles are totally modern. The new Mr. Norm's 426 Hemi Challenger and 426 Hemi Cuda Convertibles were created to ignite the passion of hard core performance enthusiasts who grew up with their legendary ancestors, while singing their siren song to a new generation who have yet to experience the excitement these vehicles offer.

Techco reveals 600 horsepower supercharger for Corvette

Techco International is a company on the rise, based out of Anaheim, that earlier this year introduced performance parts for the Chrysler LX platform as well as the Ford Mustang. The latest car in their vision for improved performance is the Chevrolet Corvette.

Thanks in large part to a reverse-revolution twin-screw supercharger system, Techco was able to squeeze 600 horsepower and 535 lb-ft of torque out of a C6. Designed and engineered by the same team that created the Series VI supercharger for the Saleen Mustangs, the Techco Corvette supercharger displaces 3.0 liters and features a standalone 8-rib drive system, patented dual A-Frame Intercooler system, high-volume fuel rails with 54 lb/hr injectors, and more.

The supercharger fits under a stock hood for extra sleeper potential, and the package costs $8500. Check out the full details in the press release below.

PRESS RELEASE:

Anaheim, CA, June 15, 2009 – Techco, "The Technology Company," has released a new Reverse-Revolution Twin-Screw Supercharger kit for all 2005-Current (C6) Corvettes equipped with the LS2, LS3 or LS7 V8s.

The unique Techco supercharger features reverse rotor lobes to allow front inlet induction for a shorter, more direct passage of air into the supercharger, resulting in cooler air and higher volumetric efficiency. This revolutionary supercharger, designed, engineered and manufactured in-house by Techco's talented team, made its debut in a supercharger kit for Dodge/Chrysler 5.7-liter and 6.1-liter V8s last year, followed by an application for Ford Mustang 4.6-liter 3-valve V8s in February 2009.

Like the Ford and Dodge/Chrysler designs, the Techco supercharger kit for the Corvette combines a large displacement blower with an ingenious dual-stage intercooler system featuring single-pass coolant flow. The Techco supercharger's 3.0-liter's of displacement is the largest among all Corvette twin-screws, pumping approximately 50 percent more air into each cylinder during every intake stroke. This highly efficient design produces the most horsepower and torque per psi of boost pressure (6 psi) of any supercharger on the market today, approximately 600 bhp/535 lb-ft versus the stock Corvette V8's 430 bhp/424 lb-ft.

And it fits neatly and cleanly under the stock Corvette hood. No other twin-screw or Roots supercharger can make that claim.

"The ground-up design is advanced in every way," says Techco Chief Engineer Bill Tally. "From the in-house manufacturing of our Reverse Revolution rotor screws; front intake system; long, high-flow runners; stand-alone 8-rib drive system; and our patented dual AFrame Intercooler system, no area of the supercharger was overlooked or taken for granted. This is a complete rethink and a clean sheet design that will take the industry by storm," Tally continued.

"Our TECHCO Twin-Screw Supercharger Kit for the Corvette is the culmination of everything we've learned in design and development since we first began supercharging V8 engines more than a decade ago," adds John Spruill, Vice President of Engineering. "With our large 3.0-liter displacement supercharger, the throttle response on-boost is amazing. It's a real blast to drive!"

What makes the Techco 3.0-liter Reverse-Revolution Twin-Screw Supercharger so revolutionary is the unique design (patent pending), which optimizes airflow efficiency throughout. Incoming air is fed into the front of the supercharger, not the back like conventional designs. This ensures that the incoming air has minimal turns, eliminating restrictions, before entering into the supercharger housing. Additionally, without the need for a complex inlet tube, the largest possible orifice size is maintained, maximizing airflow efficiencies. The air then flows into the lobes of the Reverse-Revolution asymmetric multi􀀀lobe compressor screws, where it is compressed, not merely moved, as in other forms of supercharging. The compressed air then flows into the intercooler housing, which contains two intercoolers, mounted in an A-frame configuration to ensure the airflow is evenly distributed to each runner bank. The patent pending Twin Intercooler design results in higher cooling capacity and greater thermal efficiencies as the cooling water only has to pass through the intercoolers once, keeping the charge air cool. A further benefit of the front Inlet Design is the additional package space above the supercharger that is used for long high flow Intake Runners, which increases lowend torque. The resulting design of the Techco Reverse􀀀Revolution Twin-Screw Supercharger allows air to move through the supercharger quickly and efficiently, without significant heat buildup, and at the highest resulting airflow volume and air density at low boost output. The performance result is maximized horsepower and torque output.

And for extreme power-hungry enthusiasts, Techco is also offering Optional Boost Upgrade Kits (starting at 10 psi), which offer increased power output from 650 bhp on up.

Price $8,500 (Optional Polished Upgrade: $10,000)

News bits: Pontiac G8 to live on, Z28 dead again, Viper alive, NHRA loses GM

A busy day for news coming out of Detroit.

First, as you all well know, Bob Lutz has returned to GM, which has emerged from bankruptcy. The boss wasted no time informing Automobile Magazine that the Pontiac G8will live on in the form of a Chevy Caprice destined for the U.S. "The last time we looked at [the G8], we decided that we would continue to import it as a Chevrolet. It is kind of too good to waste," Lutz told the mag.

On the subject of the on again, off again Camaro Z28, Lutz somewhat denied the fact that the car will live on to see the light of day, though he didn't deny it.

It has also been reported that GM is pulling the 'chute on it's NHRA funding, which should come as no surprise. The company is trying to slim down in size and trim it's spending. "I knew it was coming, I was forewarned," Ken Black, NHRA Full Throttle Pro Stock team owner told CompetitionPlus.com. "That's why they filed bankruptcy ... to get rid of all of this stuff."

Lastly, we look to GM's bankruptcy partner in Chrysler for our last news bit of the day. It appears that the Viper brand is no longer for sale, and is safe to live on for now. Chrysler reportedly only received one, rather lowball offer from Devon Motor Works. Check out the brief press release below for more info.

PRESS RELEASE:

Chrysler Group LLC announced today that production will continue for the legendary Dodge Viper SRT10.

Originally slated to cease production in December 2009, the Chrysler Group Connor Avenue Assembly Plant -- the exclusive home of Dodge Viper production since 1995 -- will continue to build the V-10 powered sports car. Chrysler Group is no longer pursuing a sale of the Viper business assets.

"The Dodge Viper has successfully captured the hearts and imagination of performance enthusiasts around the globe," said Mike Accavitti, President and Chief Executive Officer, Dodge Brand. "We're extremely proud that the ultimate American-built sports car with its world-class performance will live on as the iconic image leader for the Dodge brand. "

Introduced as a concept car in 1989 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Dodge Viper was designed and engineered to test public reaction to the concept of a back-to-basics, high-performance, limited production sports car.

The reaction was so overwhelming that customer orders began to flow in even before the auto show was over. Chrysler Corporation immediately decided to determine the production feasibility on transforming the crowd-pleasing Dodge Viper show car into a limited-production sports car in no more than three years.

In May 1990, after months of intensive study and testing, Chrysler Corporation announced that the Dodge Viper, powered by an aluminum V-10 was a "go."

Dodge Viper production began in May 1992 at the New Mack Assembly Plant and was moved to Conner Avenue in October 1995. Viper V-10 engine production transferred from Mound Road Engine to Conner Avenue Assembly in May 2001. In 2008, Dodge introduced the all-new, fourth generation Dodge Viper SRT10. With more horsepower, more torque and more than 30 exterior and interior color combinations, the latest Viper gives enthusiasts the performance they expect on the track and off, with more factory customization options than before.

For 2009, the Dodge Viper SRT10 offers outrageous power, with an 8.4-liter, 600-horsepower (450 kW) V-10 engine contributing to blistering acceleration (0-60 mph in less than four seconds, 0-100-0 mph in the low 12-second range), setting an American sports car benchmark.

To date, more than 25,000 Dodge Vipers have been built.