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TEST DRIVE
Charger SRT8 the best of old, new
Dodge stalwart gains new power
One of the memory-stirring favorites in my mini collection of Hot Wheels/Matchbox cars is a gleaming red 1967 Dodge Charger. But believe me, even time-magnified memories of that muscular Charger can in no way match the reality of the 2006 Dodge Charger SRT8 sedan.
Unlike the '67, the 2006 SRT8 is a four-doored sprinter with a big 425-horsepower engine and a big list of creature comforts, some standard and some high-priced options.
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2006 Dodge Charger SRT8
(click on photo to enlarge)
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Put a driving enthusiast behind the wheel and even a Mopar hater likely will find the Charger SRT8 appealing. From whooshmobile startup to immediate slowdown via big Brembo brakes, the Charger delivers retro performance with thoroughly modern furnishings.
The test SRT8, while a joy to drive from an enthusiast point of view, had an off-putting bottom line of $43,730. The base price was $35,320 plus $675 delivery and --- gulp --- a $2,100 gas-guzzler tax. There are a lot of excellent luxury/performance cars available for much less, with the Charger itself starting at about $23,000.
The SRT8's styling is mildly restrained with a four-section Dodge Magnum/Ramlike grille, 20-inch wheels and smooth bodylines flowing back to a muscular rear deck --- power just waiting to be unleashed, it says.
The drivetrain more than adequately supports the performance expectations created by the Charger nameplate and styling. The 6.1-liter engine's 425 hp and 420 pounds-feet of torque, in addition to providing five-second zero-to-60 mph clockings, provide plenty of reserve power to pass slowpokes and tire-burning takeoffs if you slam the gas pedal.
In addition to being fast, the 6.1- liter Charger has a gutteral exhaust sound that says traditional Detroit-style muscle (the engine hails from Mexico, however). Power is channeled to the SRT8s rear wheels via a German-built five-speed transmission with a driver-controlled shifter on the center console.
Milder Chargers are available for folks who don't need the SRT8's performance. In addition to a pair of V-6 models with 190 and 250 hp ratings, there's the Charger with a 5.7-liter hemi (340 hp and 390 pounds-feet of torque). In addition to stump-pulling power, these cars can seat five adults with four doors making for easy entry and exit. Prices start at about $23,000 and peak with the SRT8.
Based on the Magnum wagon platform, the Charger SRT8's performance tires and suspension stiffen the ride, but drivers will appreciate the stability and traction control systems as protection against error. Side air bags, unfortunately, are optional.
The Charger's interior layout and design are totally modern, with legible digital/analog electroluminescent instrumentation, drink holders, power outlets and options ranging from Sirius satellite radio to a navigation system. But it's what's under the bulgy hood that will sell the Charger SRT8, a car that insists you can have the best of then and now.
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