The Dodge Challenger vs. the Japanese Sports Cars – Death of the Muscle Car?
Performance
The restyled Challenger SE is equipped with a 3.5-liter 6-cylinder engine that utilizes a total of 24 valves. The engine is paired with a Chrysler four-speed transmission. This configuration has proven to be a successful design for Dodge.
For the 2009 Challenger, the fuel delivery system is a electronic SFI, using gasoline for fuel. A fuel-injected MFI configuration. The gas tank holds 20.50 gallons.
The Challenger uses power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. Steering is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The car uses coil and coil springs front and rear respectively.
Vehicle Statistics
The Challenger is 192.40 inches long, inches wide, and inches high. It has a wheelbase of inches. It is able to seat 5 comfortably.
The original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) was $19,360 when new, with a dealer invoice cost of $18,218. This price was in line with the industry average price for a 2-door Coupe.
A powertrain warranty is provided (Unlimited miles/Unlimited months), and a 36,000 mile, 36 month guarantee also comes with the Dodge Challenger.
Fuel Efficiency
The 2009 Challenger gets 25 miles/gallon on the highway and only 19 in the city. This is below average for a coupe car. Insurance rates are also improved of their classic brothers. muscle car insurance can be very expensive.
In Summary
There are several reasons why the Dodge Challenger SE sold well in 2009. Mainly the increase in availability and a marked improvement in quality meant the buying public was more apt to choose a Dodge, specifically a Challenger. The domestic sports car is not dead yet…

