NEW DODGE CHARGER
The new Dodge Charger is roughly based on the platform provided by the LX (Dodge Magnum and the Chrysler 300). In contrast to the Chargers of the past, this new Charger is a four door sedan model. The appearance of the headlights is a somewhat after market look with their large size surrounded with dark detailing. The front end is rather blunt, with the crosshair grill from the Dodge line leading out.
The Charger doesn't look much like the other LX cars from the profile. It has a windshield which is more tilted, the sides are more rounded and the entire appearance is less straight line. Actually the side view profile of the Charger resembles a Neon more than the 300 series. There has reportedly been some backlash on Mopar forums against the use of the Charger name for this vehicle, but there is also lots of good support for the car.
Other styling changes which help performance as well are the revised front and rear fascias. This cools the brakes and reduces lift. There's a hood scoop, an SRT badge in the blacked out grill in red, black and silver. There's also a rear spoiler.
Turning to the interior, you'll find dark gauges, an LED oil pressure or temperature display. An LED display for tire pressure is another of the innovations. The seats provide good support and gripping power. A special steering wheel trim makes for responsive handling capabilities.
The 23E package Dodge Charger with a 2.7 liter engine incorporating the four-speed automatic was on dealers' showroom floors at the midway point of the 2007 model year. Rental agencies already had the 2.7 liter Charger in their fleets. Chrysler estimates the Charger Hemi engine will do 0-60 in 6.0 seconds. The Dodge Charger SRT8 has a 6.1 liter Hemi, 425 horsepower powerhouse claiming 0-60 in five seconds. 0 to 100 mph measures about 16.5 seconds. Braking power from 60 to 0 is estimated at about 110 feet.
The Hemi engine is extremely popular. It may even be the major reason why people stand by the cars surrounding it. The 6.1 liter version has 425 net horsepower with 420 foot pounds of torque.
The 5.7 Hemi delivers at about 345 horsepower in the Dodge Ram, depending on the specifics of the vehicle and about 340 horsepower in the Charger, 300C and Magnum RT. Torque respectively is 375 foot pounds and 390 foot pounds. Usually the ratios are just the opposite between trucks and cars.
In 2008 a 6.4 Hemi 392 cubic inch will be available on the Challenger. Experts are claiming 505 horsepower in this racing special. It is unlikely to be considered practical or even legal for street use.
The suspension also has a lot going for it with anti-sway bars, an electronic stability program, specially tuned dampers, bushings and spring rates. The wheels are 20 inch with Goodyear's three season 245/45/20 tires in the front and 255/45/20 tires in the rear. The Charger SRT8 braking system has vented rotors and Brembo calipers. Disc brakes front and rear are standard.
