After a prolonged manufacturing lag and a protracted Last Call teaser campaign, the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 has finally graced us with its presence, flaunting some awe-inspiring specifications. Consuming E85 fuel, the supercharged 6.2-litre V8 unleashes an unparalleled 1,025 horsepower at 6,500 revolutions per minute, accompanied by a staggering 945 pound-feet of torque at 4,200 revolutions per minute. Even on E10 gasoline, the output remains unfazed, standing at an imposing 900 hp and 810 lb-ft.
When the Challenger Demon 170 is at the top of its game, running on all cylinders with the full 1,025 hp, it can attain 60 miles per hour in a minuscule 1.66 seconds, rendering it one of the most nimble and speedy vehicles on the road. Moreover, it completes the quarter-mile in an NHRA-certified 8.91 seconds, reaching a top speed of 151.17 mph. However, as per Dodge boss Tim Kuniskis, these awe-inspiring figures are achievable only on a properly prepped drag strip.
This legendary vehicle’s “170” moniker is significant for two reasons. Firstly, it pays homage to the potency of E85 ethanol, which is 170 proof, further accentuating the Demon’s incredible performance. Secondly, it also alludes to the Dodge Direct Connection Hellephant C170 crate engine, which is partially genetically identical to this model.
Powertrain
It’s worth noting that the awe-inspiring Demon 170 isn’t just a modified version of its predecessor. In order to achieve the remarkable performance figures, Dodge had to overhaul almost the entire driveline, with the camshaft being the only major component that remained consistent from the previous engine. Additionally, the supercharger displacement has been increased from 2.7 litres to a staggering 3.0 litres, while the throttle body has been upsized to a colossal 105 millimetres, dwarfing the 92 mm used in the prior model.
Thanks to these modifications, the boost has now skyrocketed to an astounding 21.3 psi, a notable improvement from the 15.3 psi found in the Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody. To further enhance the performance, the Demon 170 features intelligent engine management that can gauge the percentage of ethanol present in the gasoline. Consequently, the system makes fueling and spark timing adjustments to optimise the powertrain’s output, and the ethanol percentage is even displayed on the instrument panel. The full 1,025 horsepower can be extracted only when the ethanol content exceeds 65 percent.
The transmission, which remains an eight-speed automatic, may not be the focal point of the Demon 170. Instead, the real highlight is the enhanced TransBrake 2.0, which permits drivers to unleash their inner speed demon by crushing the throttle and then promptly pulling a shift paddle for an explosive takeoff at the strip. Moreover, drivers can tune the torque output in tenth-of-a-second increments, accurately configuring the system for the fastest power delivery. Dodge Direct Connection accessories are also available for drag-racing-oriented aficionados, enabling them to buy parts such as a harness bar, carbon-fiber rear seat delete panel, etc.
Other Salient Features
The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 not only boasts impressive engine specs but also features a set of specialised wheels and tires that help put its power to the pavement. The rear of the vehicle is fitted with Mickey Thompson ET Street R drag radials, measuring in at an impressive 315/50R17, while the front sports skinnier 245/55R18 rubber. However, these tires may not be optimal for inclement weather or colder temperatures, prompting Dodge to offer an optional wheel-and-tire package for such occasions. The Demon 170 also offers buyers the option of lighter forged aluminium and carbon fibre wheels that provide significant weight savings, with the front losing 20.12 pounds and the back shedding 11.98 pounds when compared to a Challenger Redeye Widebody.
With a wondrous feat of engineering, adaptive Bilstein shocks lift the rear of this chariot by precisely 0.39 inches. But that is not all! In the ancient and dark art of Drag Mode, the setup bends to the driver’s will, making the front firmer and the rear softer, imbuing the vehicle with even greater power and speed for drag racing.
But the wonders do not end there, for the 170 boasts springs and sway bars that are softer and more pliant than those of the Challenger Hellcat Redeye Widebody, a fact that grants it an improved weight transfer, a secret that only the most powerful and knowledgeable mechanics can understand.
Price
The Dodge’s Demon 170 comes with a steep price tag of $96,666 sans the destination fee. The production of this marvel will be limited to 3,300 units, with 3,000 units for the United States and a mere 300 units for Canada. It is important to note that the final number of units manufactured is contingent upon production capacity, as the company will only manufacture these vehicles from July to December 31, 2023.
For those eager to get their hands on this powerful machine, orders will begin on March 27, 2023. Dodge will prioritise orders made by dealers at MSRP to prevent any unwarranted markups. Dealerships across the nation have already made their available allocations visible on DodgeGarage.com, and potential buyers can peruse these dealerships to secure their desired vehicles.
As for the original 2018 Challenger SRT Demon owners, they can ask for a Demon 170 VIN that aligns with their previous model. For instance, someone with the 47th Demon can obtain the 47th 170 for a seamless transition from one model to the next. Moreover, the Demon 170 package comes with several exclusive add-ons.
Source and Images: Motor1