Dodge released details of the magnificent Challenger SRT8 392, but as usual they couldn’t be bothered to publish more than just one picture of the car! Now if that 392 in the car’s name doesn’t ring a bell for you we have to point out that refers to the 392-cubic inch HEMI V8 under the bonnet.
This awesome powertrain delivers 470 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque so the SRT8 392 beats all the other V8 versions built to date. Dodge also says that this model is specially tweaked to offer world-class ride and handling along with high-performance braking and the latest technology that delivers improved fuel efficiency.
It comes with uprated suspension, quicker steering ratios and new negative camber settings, all for the sake of proper handling and the ability of going round the corners like a sports car, the good kind! The car can now pull .93g of lateral acceleration.
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 production of the 2011 Challenger will start with 1,492 Inaugural Edition models of the Challenger SRT8 392. There’s also a new V6 version with the firm’s Pentastar powertrain.
The limited edition Inaugural Editions will feature unique customization, and will be available with 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.
Other features include unique “392 HEMI” badges on both fenders, Mopar quad exhaust tips deliver the performance exhaust note while adding a serious muscle car styling cue, larger front splitter and integrated front fender spats and a new chin spoiler as well as a rear decklid spoiler for better overall high-speed aerodynamics and balance.
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.
There’s a lot of history attached to the iconic 392 HEMI name.
The original 392 HEMI engine was introduced in 1957 model year Chrysler and Imperial products, replacing the 354 cubic-inch version of the original HEMI launched in 1951. The new and improved HEMI V-8 engine was quickly adopted by drag racers of all types, and following various historical speed runs on land and water, soon became affectionately referred to simply as the “92.”
After 1958, the 392 HEMI was gone as a production engine, but it still remains a legend. Collectors are now preserving many historic 392-powered race cars and hot rods and proudly displaying them on show car circuits.
In 2007, Mopar – Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand – helped celebrate the 50th anniversary of the original 392 by launching a modern, crate engine version of the 392 HEMI.
The 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 is built at the Brampton Assembly Plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada, and will arrive in U.S. dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2010.
