Thursday, October 28, 2010

2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392

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Chrysler, a company on the rebound for the second time in it's life, is planning on taking SEMA by storm with 35 vehicles going on display at the car show extravaganza. One of the gems in this huge lot is the 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392.

Power in the SRT8 392 has been kicked up a notch from the previously "normal" SRT8 thanks to a 6.4 liter V8 producing 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. The kicker is that the 6.4 not only produces more power than the previous 6.1 liter, but it also delivers it with 15-20 percent better fuel economy thanks to variable valve timing and cylinder deactivation.

Other upgrades over the outgoing model include a retuned suspension with firmer shocks and quicker steering, a unique chin spoiler, and much more. Chrysler says it will only build 1,492 inaugural edition copies of the SRT8 392, with the first ones going on sale right after Thankgiving.

Press Release

Launching Off the Line: Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 Delivers New Levels of Performance With Loads More Torque, Horsepower and Maximum Handling

October 25, 2010 , Auburn Hills, Mich. –

Dodge's ultimate modern American muscle coupe, the Dodge Challenger SRT8 392, receives a big boost in horsepower and torque with the introduction of the legendary 392-cubic inch HEMI V8 powertrain for the street.

And the product story goes beyond the power rumbling under the hood.

Dodge performance loyalists asked for more power off the line, and the 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 answers the call with 470 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque. That's 90 lb.-ft. more torque at 2,900 rpm compared with the previous 6.1-liter V-8 engine.

Building on its original mantra of a rear-drive coupe that delivers balance between form and function, the Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 also brings world-class ride and handling along with high-performance braking and the latest technology that delivers improved fuel efficiency.

New, highly damped shocks offer a firm ride that maintains the feel for everyday commuting while being fully capable for the more challenging situations. SRT engineers recalibrated the suspension geometry to improve Challenger's balance, corning ability and steering responsiveness. Quicker steering ratios and new negative camber settings all around dramatically improve Challengers appetite for cornering.

The performance SRT-tuned, fully hydraulic steering system also has been improved with a new, heavy-duty pump and revised gearing to give drivers more direct feel and on-center response.

The result: the 2011 Challenger SRT8 392 is now more nimble and playfully "tossable" while still capable of an incredible .93g of lateral acceleration on the skid pad – the most of any production Challenger.
To kick off 2011-model year production, Dodge will build 1,492 Inaugural Edition models of the Challenger SRT8 392, all with exclusive content.

On the outside, Dodge is offering unique customization for those first 1,492 owners. Two colors and new full-body stripe combinations include Deep Water Blue with standard Stone White stripes or Bright White Clear Coat with standard Viper Blue stripes. All Inaugural Edition models will ride on standard 20-inch SRT-exclusive wheels that feature a polished face and satin black painted pockets.

Unique "392 HEMI" badges flank both fenders touting the historically significant V-8 engine. Mopar quad exhaust tips deliver the performance exhaust note while adding a serious muscle car styling cue. A larger front splitter and integrated front fender spats give this Challenger SRT8 392 better overall high-speed aerodynamics and balance.

A newly modified front fascia chin spoiler improves aerodynamics and is accent painted for a more aggressive look. The rear decklid spoiler also is completed in matching body color.

The race-inspired interior of the Challenger SRT8 392 Inaugural Edition features standard Smooth Pearl White leather-trimmed seats and dual blue stripes accented by unique blue stitching. Each of the front seats features an embroidered "392" just below the headrest. An exclusive, serialized "Inaugural Edition 392 HEMI" dash plaque, showing the sequential build number from 1 to 1,492, rounds out the exclusive interior content.

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Drop Top Customs goes old school with Camaro T-Top conversion

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Those who had or have t-top cars are typically a dedicated bunch. They are insanely loyal to their t roof cars, and many folks probably still wish that they could buy their favorite muscle cars with one. Drop Top Customs is seeking to please those diehards by introducing a t-top version of the new Chevrolet Camaro.

DTC is a company best known for producing convertible versions of cars that aren't offered in roofless version. The t-top Camaro will make its debut at SEMA in November, and the company swears it doesn't cause any chassis flex. The conversion will cost a mere $6,500, which is not too bad considering the tech that goes into chopping the roof.

Monday, October 18, 2010

Video: Chevy design team talk Neiman Marcus Camaro Convertible

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Tomorrow, October 19th is the day the new Neiman Marcus Camaro convertible goes on sale, so you may want to be ready to pounce if you want one. The 100 examples of the car are sure to sell out quickly, even with a $75,000 price tag. The Deep Bourdeaux colored, SS based 'vert is a nice way to celebrate the return of a top down Camaro.

In this video, two Chevrolet designers talk shop about the special edition Camaro. They talk about their particular motivation behind the car, and what makes it so special. Check it out below.