Group 2 Dodge Challenger echoes past SCCA racers

Among muscle cars--even among Dodge Challengers, new or old--the Classic Design Concepts Group 2 Challenger stands out.

Winner of the Chrysler Design Excellence Award at the 2008 Specialty Equipment Market Association show in Las Vegas last November, the Group 2 Challenger moves from concept to production this month as Michigan-based Classic Design Concepts begins building its version of the Dodge performance coupe.

The Group 2 appearance package, inspired by the wide-body SCCA Trans-Am Group 2 race cars of the 1960s and '70s, includes custom carbon-composite lightweight front fenders and billboard-style rear fenders, aerodynamic front spoiler wings, Group 2 badging and mongo 20-inch wheels and tires. The extra-wide fenders allow for 10.0-inch-wide front wheels fitted with 10.8-inch-wide tires, while the 12.0-inch-wide rear wheels are mounted with 12.5-inch-wide tires. The appearance package adds $11,995 to the price of the underlying 2008 or '09 Challenger.

The real fun starts with the options list. Our $45,000 SRT Challenger came equipped with a Vortech supercharger that boosted output to 560 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque. Also included were Baer brakes, KW suspension, Eibach lowering springs, Corsa cat-back exhaust and a custom hood and shaker scoop option.

All of the extras and the Group 2 package pushed the $45,000 SRT Challenger base price to $79,390.

The entire package makes for one wicked ride, with plenty of power to break loose the wide rear rubber and enough race-bred attitude to set the car apart from virtually every other muscle car on the mile. At the same time, because the car is based on a production Challenger, it remains practical, functional and comfortable for cruising.

Want yours? Call CDC at (866) 624-7997. And bring your Challenger.

By Bob Gritzinger