Packing a 6.1-liter Hemi that makes 425 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, the Dodge Challenger SRT8 is obviously no slouch when it comes to getting through the quarter mile. But for hardcore Dodge drag racers, production power just won’t do—which is why Chrysler is once again offering its Dodge Challenger Drag Pak program for 2010.
The program is designed to appeal to grassroots racers looking for high performance with an affordable price tag, and that’s what Dodge is offering. Starting at $39,999, the Drag Pak Challenger still holsters that big Hemi—mated to a five-speed auto or six-speed manual transmission—but Dodge engineers have removed some 1,000 lbs worth of production equipment to save weight and added on a composite lift-off hood with a functional air scoop, racing seats, polycarbonate door windows, manual rack-and-pinion steering and the proverbial much, much more.
In fact, there’s just one minor feature missing from these Challengers that drivers will be likely to miss: A vehicle identification number. Unfortunately for gearheads, the Drag Pak vehicles do not have VINs and are not street legal.
On the other hand, they are sanctioned to run in the Stock, Super Stock and Comp Eliminator categories of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), which is North America’s pre-eminent drag racing organization.
Production is slated to begin this summer, with applications for the program now available via www.mopar.com. But interested drivers will have to be plenty fast themselves to take home a Drag Pak Challenger: The 2009 program, which offered 100 cars, was sold out both quickly and completely.
EXCLUSIVE! Dodge Challenger SRT Drag Pack
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