Automobiles Review

Tag: HEMI

  • Mopar HEMI Challenge Celebrates its 15th Anniversary

    MoparMopar, for 15th consecutive season underscores its commitment to Sportsman racing competition within the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) with the demonstration of the Mopar HEMI Challenge. Now, the popular race event will be staged during the US Nationals in Indianapolis with schedules to take place September 3-4 at Lucas Oil Raceway.

    As you might know, the HEMI Challenge debuted back in 2001 on a quarter-mile track at the US Nationals and starred a special 1968 HEMI-powered Dodge Darts and Plymouth Barracuda, which, as we all know, are classic muscle cars, that contributed to Mopar’s well-known reputation and success.

    SEE ALSO: 2016 Chevrolet Malibu: With Great Weight Comes Great Performance

    And now, 2015 edition celebrates its 15th anniversary with a special race and a special prize: an unique HEMI Challenge trophy, custom Mopar HEMI Challenge winner’s jacket and of course, some cash: $15,000. Surely this award will make some wonderful motivational effect on all the attending racers. In fact, there are cash awards for all the top 16 racer, that will qualify.

    Mopar Additional Prizes

    Furthermore, every Mopar-powered Super Stock/Automatic-HEMI class competitor will receive a special 15th anniversary event hat,  replica license plate and a special commemorative poster. Mopar will also provide a special vehicle suspension seminar, a display of a new product and will talk about opportunities for participants to win a Mopar Gen II HEMI engine block. It is nice to see how a brand like Mopar motivates racers and participants to show their best, isn’t it?

    As you might remember, the first Mopar HEMI Challenge was won by Bucky Hess back in 2001, followed by Richard Beshore in 2002, Jerry Jenkins in 2003 and Jeg Coughlin Jr. in 2004. And the driver with the most HEMI Challenge prizes is the champion Charlie Westcott Jr, who earned a total of six career wins in 2005, 2006, 2008, 2011, 2012 and 2014. This year’s Mopar HEMI Challenge will take place September 2-7.

    Source: Mopar

  • Mopar Showcases New Customization Options


    Mopar is reaffirming their commitment to allow customers the opportunity to customize their vehicles. At the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, Michigan, three vehicles hat have been extensively customizes will be on display, showing Mopar’s focus on encouraging customers to personalize their rides. The vehicles on display include two Mopar equipped Jeep Renegades, as well as a Dodge Challenger T/A Concept vehicle.

    “The company exhibit at the North American International Auto Show will highlight vehicles from all FCA brands, including three modified rides that illustrate how Mopar can assist customers in bringing to life their own personal vision of an FCA vehicle,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar. “Customers can pull from our portfolio of Mopar products to augment the versatility and capability of the all-new Jeep Renegade, as shown with two Mopar-equipped Renegade vehicles, or to beef up the muscle of the Dodge Challenger while adding a vintage feel, as demonstrated by the Dodge Challenge T/A Concept.”

    One Jeep Renegade was equipped to be the ultimate off-road vehicle, both in capability and style. With Cammando Green skin, bold graphics on the body’s sides, and a dramatic X shape styling of the tail lamps which is inspired by first-generation military Jeep vehicles. A map of Detroit adorns the Hood decal.

    The second Jeep Renegade has been styled with an urban aesthetic which utilizes Jeep accessories to create a fresh, enhanced styling with an energetic approach. This Renegade model is a perfectly styled vehicle for a city or suburban area dweller, and imparts a youthful edge on whoever is behind the drivers wheel. With 4×4 capability, this Renegade is the perfect vehicle for driving in any environment you choose to take it.

    The Dodge Challenger T/A Concept debuted at the Las Vegas, Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in November of 2014. With an eye-catching, Sublime Green color and a styling that draws inspiration from the 1970’s Challenger, the concept car also manages to imbue modern ideas into the aesthetic. With matte black, full-length graphics adorbing each side of the body, the vehicle offers incredibly aggressive drama that is highlighted by 6.4-liter 392 HEMI engine.

    Mopar has been producing exceptional performance parts since 1937, and the brand continues to provide ways for automobile enthusiasts to enhance their rides. Mopar annually distributes more than 500,000 parts and accessories across the world, and is the only source for genuine accessories and parts for FCA brands.

  • Sergio Marchionne’s Dodge Challenger SRT8 for auction

    Sergio Marchionne’s Dodge Challenger SRT8 will be auctioned at the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Palm Beach, Florida.

    The specially customized muscle car boasts a Pitch Black paint with Dark Charcoal racing stripes and a sports exhaust system. Other highlights include an adjustable coil-over suspension, tinted taillights and matte black 20” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile tires.

    The interior comes with slight changes. There are  bespoke leather sport seats and a vehicle information center that provides: 0-60 mph time, 60-0 mph braking time and length, 1/8 mile run and ¼ mile run times along with various G-force measurements.

    The engine is a 6.4 liter HEMI V8 with 470HP (350 kW) and 636Nm (470 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox sending all that power to the rear wheels. There is also an LSD (limited slip differential) for maximum traction and… fun. 0-100 km/h in around 4 seconds.

    “It gives me great pleasure to thank Sergio Marchionne and Chrysler Group for their commitment to Detroit and its surrounding communities,” said Michael J. Brennan, President and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

    “Through the generous support of those who open their hearts and wallets during the Barrett-Jackson auction, United Way can capitalize on the ability to accelerate the impact of its work in three interconnected areas: education, income and basic needs.”, he added.

    Sergio Marchionne Dodge Challenger SRT8
    Sergio Marchionne Dodge Challenger SRT8
    Sergio Marchionne Dodge Challenger SRT8
    Sergio Marchionne Dodge Challenger SRT8

    Source: Chrysler

  • Dodge Durango Special Service

    Dodge-Durango-Special-Service-thumbIf you are contemplating a local bank robbery, make sure the police force at your area still hasn’t received its batch of specially made Dodge Durangos. They will be designated by the term “Special Service” and, much like the Dodge Charger Pursuit, will serve the law enforcement or, by choice, the fire department or any other fleet out there. Either way, we are looking at a lean, mean machine, designed to rule over all sorts of terrains and offer as much versatility as possible.

    A standard Dodge Durango comes with two engine choices: A 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 delivers 290 bhp and a range of 550 miles on a single tank. Then there’s the upper edge HEMI V8 with 360 bhp and the healthy 390 lb.-ft. of torque. The former has a towing capacity of 6200 lbs while the latter – 7400 lbs. And that load will cling on as standard equipment includes Trailer-sway Control.

    The Special Service Durangos come with this very same engine choice with the possibility of being either RWD or AWD. But because the cargo area here is custom made to fit the needs of whomever might be using it, several performance components had to be beefed up – the breaks are new, there’s a heavy-duty battery now and a larger alternator. The water pump and engine oil cooler have also been replaced.

    Standard Durangos already have 30 storage areas scattered around but the Special Service vehichles offer even more diversity – under-floor storage compartments and additional storage in the side compartments. Also, one might find service interior dome lamp and headliner and spot lamp wiring prep as additional extras. The otherwise commonly present third row of seats has been sacrificed, but it is all for the better good.

    Since Servicepeople already put their lives at great risks, why not offer them some sense of security inside at the very least. That’s why these Durangos come with a full package of safety features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), electronic roll mitigation (ERM) and Hill-start Assist/ There are seat-mounted and side-curtain air bags in the front row. The side one reaches out for the second row as well, and the third, non-existent one.

    Chrysler Group fleet operations will start taking orders now, with deliveries expected to begin in the second quarter of 2012 so fugitives for now will still have some room to breathe. However, just by looking at the gallery here, I already feel discouragement of indulging myself into a life of crime.

    Dodge Durango Special Service line
    Dodge Durango Special Service line
    Dodge Durango Special Service
    Dodge Durango Special Service
    Dodge Durango Special Service
    Dodge Durango Special Service

    Source: Chrysler LLC

  • A Mossy Oak Ram Truck

    2012-Ram-1500-Mossy-Oak-Edition-thumbWith numerous cabin sizes and a variety of engine choices, the Ram Ttruck has a lot to offer in terms of versatility and character. But those who want that extra something on top or they just fancy a hunt should turn to Mossy Oak Graphics. It is a company that has formed a close collaboration with Ram (separate from Dodge) with the end result being the Ram 1500 Mossy Oak® Edition – a camouflaged, army green, four-door pickup truck.

    Ironically, the most striking feature are the leafy, muddy patterns that decorate the truck’s body. It is a special sort vinyl (3M™ premium cast vinyl) that is said to be resistant to shrinking, cracking, fading, shredding and peeling. Installation is also made easy because of the pressure-sensitive adhesive technology and air-release channels used upon application. That way, one can continuously readjust the vinyls until there are no bubbles or imperfections.

    Seat covers that also have a foresty feel also come with the Oak Edition. Made from a polycotton drill weave fabric, they will be easy to slip on or off and to wash them when needed. Most impotently they are theft proof because nobody will even notice those seats… in the forest.

    Chrysler LLC, which makes the Ram, want to keep it competitive so they have gone with a couple of developments for the latest model, including a new four-door cab style offering, new suspension, a six-speed manual with every diesel engine, and the thing called the Rambox – a new storage system that allows secure storage inside the truck’s bed walls. Everything about the Ram feels right about off-road hunting except the fact that no matter how good of a camouflage it has, one can never conceal the clutter of a diesel or the rumble of a HEMI.

    Ram 1500 Mossy Oak Edition (2012)
    Ram 1500 Mossy Oak Edition (2012)
    Ram 1500 Mossy Oak Edition (2012)
    Ram 1500 Mossy Oak Edition (2012)

    Source: Chrysler LLC

  • All-in-one Chrysler 300 on it’s way

    What Chrysler is going to try and do with the new 300 series is to blend style and luxury with affordability and refinement. Sales are expected to start during the first quarter of 2012 with a base price of $40,145.

    Two trimmings will be offered when showrooms open up to costumers: the Chrysler 300 and the Chrysler 300 C. Both of these cars can be equipped with either an AWD system or RWD. The more economical and less powerful 300 pumps out 292 horsepower from a 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 while the 300C makes use of a 5.7 HEMI V8 which delivers 363 hp. The latter, Chrysler say, goes easy on the petrol as it employes their Fuel Saver Technology. However, the Pentastar is the one to ask about fuel-efficiency – 23mpg combined (21 for the AWD version). A figure, according to the company, yet unsurpassed in the luxury class.

    The company is also proud of it’s state-of-the-art 8-speed automatic gearbox which is a first in a “domestic luxury sedan”. More yet shorter gear rations means smoother power delivery and a lively throttle response. The AWD segment is clever too as it makes use of all the wheels only when needed while normally the front axle is disengaged from the drivetrain. Transition from RWD to AWD is automatic and barely noticeable. All those factors, the transmission, the drive system, the Pentastar V6, work together to achieve a more powerful and a 17 percent more economic vehicle compared to the previous V6 300.

    Visually platinum-chrome touches ornament the fascias, door handles and mirror caps. The grille is also platinum-chrome with lining of the same material. Four polished face, pocket painted, 20 inch wheels (19 inch on the AWD models) bare the weight of the 300 for a completed look.

    Chrysler 300 Luxury Series (2012)
    Chrysler 300 Luxury Series (2012)
    2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series
    2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series
    2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series
    2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series
    2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series
    2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series
    2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series
    2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series
    2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series
    2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series
    2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series
    2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series
    2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series

    Now that Chrysler is closely associated with Fiat, the 2012 model 300 has had the pleasure to bare  an essence otherwise reserved for Italian exotic vehicles. A more detailed description of the interior offers terms like Mochachino and Nappa which sounds very classy and expensive. Basically the wheel, the dashboard brow, the center console and the instrument panel all participate in a lavish leather feast which continues further back where the black/two toned seats are also wrapped in leather to go with the door and center console arm rests (You guessed it. They are all leather as well). Add to that a chrome lining to the wheel and Natural Pore Mocha wood panels  here and there and things get really executive.

    The number of gadgets inside is high. Just to name a few we have heated/ventilated seats, die-cast paddle shifters, touchscreen navigation, electrically adjustable steering column and seats with a memorizing function, LEDs everywhere  and an electrochromic rear view mirror.

    Interested? Well here is a quick price list on all four specifications:

    • Chrysler 300 Luxury Series (RWD) $40,145
    • Chrysler 300 Luxury Series (AWD) $42,495
    • Chrysler 300C Luxury Series (RWD) $42,895
    • Chrysler 300C Luxury Series (AWD) $45,245

    Source: Chrysler

  • Mopar 8.4 liter V10 with 800HP at 2011 SEMA

    Mopar has created a monstrous entirely new 8.4 liter V10 engine, which was introduced at 2011 SEMA Show.

    “SEMA is the perfect platform to introduce some of Mopar’s newest high performance and restoration parts and products,” commented Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar. “If you’re looking for horsepower that can be dropped in or bolted on, the Mopar exhibit area has a full range of small- and big-block products for the enthusiast.

    “Mopar has been in the performance business for decades. In fact, the brand really came to life at the track,” he added.

    “We are committed to supporting performance enthusiasts. We have an extremely rich product plan that will not only support the more than 5 million HEMI engines in market today and the 30 million Chrysler Group vehicles on the roads across the country, but will also support the products of tomorrow. The engines we are launching are the first of many exciting products to come for both on and off-road needs. We have an amazing track record of fueling enthusiasts and are committed to continuing this legacy.”, Mr. Gorlier finished.

    The new 8.4 liter performance V10 produces 811PS (597 kW) and 941Nm (695 lb-ft) of torque. These results are thanks to a number of modifications – a forged steel crankshaft with forged steel connecting rods and forged aluminum pistons with a compression ratio of 12.5:1. All rotating components have been balanced for maximum performance at the track. The mighty engine revs up to 7000RPM.

    Mopar 8.4 liter V10
    Mopar 8.4 liter V10
    Mopar 8.4 liter V10
    Mopar 8.4 liter V10
    Mopar 8.4 liter V10
    Mopar 8.4 liter V10
    Mopar 8.4 liter V10

    Source: Dodge

  • 2011 Ram 1500 Express

    Ram 1500 Express is now officially unwrapped. Teased under the codename Adventurer approximately two months ago, the 2011 Ram 1500 Express is an extremely robust truck aimed at buyers demanding for a ride with performance and style that can be easily customized to mirror their own. (more…)

  • Dodge Challenger Hemi Cuda

    Droptop Customs have revealed the tuned Dodge Challenger Hemi Cuda.

    It is powered by a 6.1 liter SRT8 Hemi engine with some modifications like – a Mopar Catback exhausts system and a pistol grip Hurts shifter. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.

    Droptop Customs Dodge Challenger Hemi Cuda also features a shaker hood and retro rear bumper from HXC. The car is finished in a yellow, which was very popular back in the 1970s. (more…)

  • 2011 Chrysler 300 price – 27 995 USD

    The latest 300 model from Chrysler hits the US market. The spectacular car is priced at 27 995 USD.

    Among the standard extras you will get Uconnect® Touch, which the segment’s largest standard touchscreen radio (8.4″) and offers state-of-the-art connectivity, segment-leading Garmin® navigation with world-class functionality and SIRIUS Travel Link for real-time weather, fuel prices and more. (more…)

  • CULT Dodge Challenger SRT8 headed to SEMA 2010

    CULT Energy Drunk is about to reveal one of the most exceptionally-tweaked Challengers of all times at the next week’s SEMA show in Las Vegas. This black-matted monster vehicle is based upon the famous Dodge Challenger SRT8 and boasts an amazingly masculine widebody kit and a supercharged 6.1-liter V8 HEMI engine unit.Furthermore, the monstrous CULT Challenger spotlights highly-aggressive, contrasting red lights, CULT stickers, huge wheels and brakes, and of course the unmistakable supercharger that pops of the hood.Full details on that exclusive creation will be revealed on the SEMA show when its start on November 2nd.CULT Dodge Challenger SRT8 Front AngleCULT SRT8 Rear AngleCULT Dodge Challenger SRT8 FrontCULT ChallengerCULT Dodge Challenger SRT8 right sideCULT Dodge right rear sideDodge Challenger front topCULT Dodge Challenger SRT8 RearSource: AutoGuide and TeamSpeed

  • MOPAR with 35 vehicles at the 2010 SEMA Show

    MOPAR will present 35 vehicles at the 2010 SEMA Show, which takes place November 2nd to 5th in Las Vegas.

    One of the most interesting is the new 2011 Challenger SRT8 392 with 6.4 liter HEMI V8 delivering 470hp (350kW) and 637Nm (470 lb-ft) of torque. The engine features a variable intake manifold, multi-cylinder deactivation, and VVT technology. Thanks to the updates, the new SRT8 will be 15 to 20% more fuel efficient than its predecessor. (more…)