A Look Back- The Rebirth of the Challenger

The Challenger concept car, shown at the 2006 Detroit International Auto Show, was a big tease for Mopar fans. It was the answer to a hot rodders’ dream- the reincarnation of a 1970s Dodge muscle car! But, would it make it to production?




See the 15:11 minute mark of the following video:



Based on the success of the retro-inspired 2005 Mustang GT, Dodge looked at its parts bins and figured out how to use this stuff to create a modern-day Challenger. To accomplish this feat, Chrysler drew upon its ponycar heritage and charged its Pacifica design studio to turn this dream into a reality. The fabrication of the carbon fiber body was to be done by Metalcrafters.

Here are the insider video interviews of the concept’s brilliant exterior designer, Micheal Castaglione and interior designer, Alan Barrington:

Challenger Designers - Castiglione and Barrington, Part 1 - YouTube

Challenger Designers - Castiglione and Barrington, Part 2 - YouTube

Challenger Designers - Castiglione and Barrington, Part 3 - YouTube

Challenger Designers Castiglione and Barrington Pt. 4 - YouTube

Challenger Designers Castiglione and Barrington Pt. 5 - YouTube

Challenger Designers - Castiglione and Barrington, Part 6 - YouTube

As spy photos leaked out to the enthusiast car magazines, anticipation was at a fever pitch. Trevor Creed, Senior V.P. of Design, unveiled the exciting Challenger concept at the 2006 Chrysler Press Conference, Detroit International Auto Show:

See the 17:04 minute mark of the following video:



As a result of overwhelming acceptance of the concept, it was decided to put it into production. An on-line Countdown Clock, ticked off the days and hours until the 2008 Challenger SRT 8 would debut on February 6, 2008. The finished product featured a sexy body that was faithful to the concept's retro design. In addition, it featured a proven 6.1 Hemi engine (425 hp. and 420 ft-lbs. of torque@4,800 rpm), 4-piston Brembo brakes, 14.2 inch vented rotors, Bilstein shocks, live rear axle, 5-speed NAG1 automatic transmission, Alcoa forged aluminum 20-inch wheels, 245/40-20/255/40-20 Goodyear F-1 Supercar tires and much more.



Here are the video interviews of the 2008’s exterior designer, Jeff Gale and interior designer, Brian Nielander:

2008 Challenger Designer Interview -- Segment 1 - YouTube

2008 Challenger Designer Interview -- Segment 2 - YouTube

2008 Challenger Designer Interview -- Segment 3 - YouTube

Designer Interview ; Segment 4 - 2009 Challenger - YouTube



Designer Interview; Segment 6 - 2009 Challenger - YouTube