The 2008 Challenger came in one model only, the top of the line Challenger SRT8. Only 6,400 were produced and they were sold before the first one arrived at the showroom. The classic lines, great performance and nostalgia all came together in this modern remake of the Dodge classic. Ford may have reintroduced the classic lines of the early muscle cars with the handsome 2005 Mustang, but Dodge set the standard. This car captured the essence of the muscle car in a much more authentic way than the Mustang or even the yet to be introduced new Camaro. The 2008 Challenger just looked like a Muscle Car with it long hood and wide stance.
For its first year the new Challenger SRT8 was equipped with a 6.1-liter Hemi making 425 horsepower and 420 pound-feet, 20-inch forged-aluminum rims, Brembo four-piston discs front and rear, and a five-speed automatic transmission. Dodge priced it at $37,995 but most were sold at a premium.
The press was generally favorable and gave nods to the cars looks, performance and huge strides in fit and finish compared to its namesake from the 1970’s. Several did comparisons between the old Challengers with the new one winning in every category. The Mustang was another favorite for comparison tests.
Motor Trend did a comparison between the 2008 Challenger and the 2008 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. The Challenger came out on top: "It's one of the closest comparo calls we've made of late, but the nod goes to the all-new Challenger from Dodge. The Shelby GT500 remains a fast and compelling piece, but the Challenger is simply a better-sorted automobile, a 20th-century icon reborn with 21st-century sophistication and poise. It's also a remarkable value, its base price undercutting the Shelby's by more than $4000 and the gap with options even wider." Read the entire review here.
The 2009 Challenger will come in three models: a base model, an R/T and of course the SRT8.
