The 1970 and 1971 Dodge Challenger cars are two of the world's most highly prized collector cars. Challenger production ceased after the 1974 model year, only having lasted five years; performance dropped off dramatically after the 1971 models. About 165,500 Challengers were sold over this model's lifespan.
With the new Dodge Challenger Concept car, Chrysler is planning the rebirth of a legend. Created in the image of the iconic 1970 Challenger, the all-new Challenger Concept is now ready for production. The idea of making this car was to develop a hot-looking performance coupe, using Chrysler's rear-wheel-drive LX platform. Under the hood lies the 425-hp, 6.1-liter V8 that the Challenger Concept borrowed from a Dodge Charger SRT-8. The car has a six-speed manual transmission, and the combination takes the car from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
The exterior of the new Dodge Challenger is designed around its ancestor, but the interior also shows clear similarities to the early 70s version, although with a twist of technology and modernization. As you open the door and climb into the car, you get a retro car feel. The leather, high back seats have a sunken in, ribbed look, just like the seats which came in the 1970 Challenger. Like the vintage Tuff Wheel, the new wheel is connected to the dashboard by means of a ribbed plastic cuff, which also matches the steering wheel color.
Rumors are rampant that the Challenger is already approved for production. However, Challenger enthusiasts will probably have to wait till 2008 to see this great car once again.
