2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8

2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8: A real retro looker with muscle

It was not love at first sight, but when I finally had to give up the keys to 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 I knew I was smitten with this retro looking muscle car.

As a child of the 70’s I was very familiar with the Challenger’s design. I had seen it in its starring role in the movie “Vanishing Point” during those years, but all that history could not prepare me for the real thing 38 years later.

The Challenger’s classic look and muscle car performance are tied together with an exhaust note that says “This car has to be taken seriously.” To drive this Dodge responsibly required a great deal of discipline on my part.

The reason is its 6.1-liter SRT HEMI V8. It is the highest naturally aspirated specific-output engine ever offered in a Challenger. It features performance-oriented camshaft profiles and aggressively designed cylinder heads coupled with intake and exhaust systems to help maximize airflow and increase engine speed. This combination pushes 425 horses and 420 lbs. ft. of torque to the road. Adding to the Challenger’s performance is the six-speed manual transmission which features a two-disk clutch design that ensures exceptional engagement, comfort, low driver pedal efforts and optimized spinning inertia. Grab the pistol grip shifter, put your foot to the floor and you are connected with power.

I have preached in this column over the years that stopping a fast car is the most important piece of equipment. The Challenger SRT does not skimp here. Its high-performance Brembo braking system answers the call when pressed into service. The four pistons at each wheel provide even clamping performance. This Dodge can go from zero to100 mph and back to zero in just 17 seconds and from 60 mph to zero in 110 feet.

While historically Challengers were known as straight-line fast, the 2009 edition takes the turns with style and ease. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) helps maintain control by sensing when the vehicle is starting to over or understeer. The system automatically applies individual brakes or controls the throttle to help you stay safely on course. Challenger SRT8 is specially tuned for performance handling. It also gives you the option of switching ESP off when you don't want it to interfere and that is when I enjoyed leaving rubber on the road from its 245/45ZR20 All Season Performance Goodyear Tires which are mounted on the 20" x 9.0" Forged Aluminum SRT Design Wheels.

Inside the two-door Challenger SRT, the driver and front seat passenger are comfortable in the racing inspired bucket seats. It has a back seat but if you have any idea of adults being back there, think again. The roomy trunk makes up for hardly accessible rear seat. It was great when I went the weekly shopping at Publix or using it as a hiding place for Christmas presents.

The love affair I had with the Challenger may have been born out of its performance but it was fueled by the looks and comments it got as I drove it around town. When picking up a to-go order at Anthony’s Pizza the waitress came out of the packed restaurant to ask me about it, because she said the staff inside were fixated on it and its color. Was it red or orange?

Priced at $44,000 MSRP with a few bells a whistles for good measure, is a great deal for the performance, looks and love it gives in return. I miss it. Oh, by the way the color is TorRed!

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