Challenger for 16y old?

Discussion in 'Dodge Challenger General Discussions' started by Jason Wall, Sep 27, 2023.

  1. Jason Wall

    Jason Wall New Member

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    I have a request out for insurance. My question to this community is based on your experience with this car. I would get a v6, and possibly only a AWD and or manual tranny. My questions are 1. related to visibility for a new driver to get used to and 2. which models/trims/years have the most safety features for crash detection, brake assist, etc.?
     
  2. Wm TPA SXT

    Wm TPA SXT Full Access Member

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    None of the V6 are Manual they are all Automatic, 2011-2014 is a 5 speed and the 15-2023 is a 8 speed automatic. They do not come with Crash Detection....
    Visibility is depending on your Height and how you adjust the Seats. All Have Side Airbags and Dash Air Bags, ABS Brakes and Traction Control.
     
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  3. Niles

    Niles Full Access Member

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    The 2009-2010 offered the less powerful 3.5 liter V-6. The 2011 and up used the 3.6 Pentastar V-6 which is rated over 300 hp.
     
  4. Wm TPA SXT

    Wm TPA SXT Full Access Member

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    The 2009 -2010 3.5 is 250hp at the FLYWHEEL
    2011-2014 3.6 v6 is 305 hp at the Flywheel
    2015-2021 is 305hp the 2022-2023 is 303 Flywheel
     
  5. redchihuahua2004

    redchihuahua2004 Member

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    My opinion is that a V6 Challenger is not a good idea for a new driver.
    Here's why:
    - the Challenger is a relatively large vehicle
    - 250 hp is a lot for a new driver
    - rear visibility is poor at best even for an experienced driver

    My suggestion for a new driver would be a 4 cylinder mid-size sedan (or coupe) as the above points are addressed. (For example, I have two teenage drivers in my home and I got them a Honda Accord coupe and a Mazda 6 (sedan) - both 4 cylinder-powered.)
     
  6. Jason Wall

    Jason Wall New Member

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    I appreciate each of you taking time to share your thoughts and the information. A big decision as you know, our children...
     
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  7. Wm TPA SXT

    Wm TPA SXT Full Access Member

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    I can add as well most Kids would see a Challenger, Mustang or Camaro as high performance meaning driving it fast and since kids have youtube etc.,
    the temptation is going to be there to drive it hard. A SXT is still by all means a very fast vehicle even for its size and power can get out from a Kid fast.
    The mindset with Social Media, Smart Phones changes so many things. I see kids racing in even a 4cyl Camaro the name of these Cars does entice them.

    The Challengers do have blind spots.

    Now a good vehicle for a teen Toyota Camry, Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Mazda 6, or a Nissian Altima and reason is dependability, open views, roomy
    and safe. Small Cars, Sports Car, Modern Pony Cars not really a idea first ride.
     
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  8. HellKitten

    HellKitten Full Access Member

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    Not sure about your question 100%. But for a new 16 year old driver, it's a safe car by all means big with lots metal protection. The AWD & traction control are great as well. BUT you know what a 16 year old is thinking! Girls are one thing , but the racing is a no no!! and driving a Challenger around you are being touted by a lot of people. I don't think a 16 year old could handle that. It's a tuff call being a parent.
     
  9. The Gassman

    The Gassman New Member

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    Set aside choice of car for a minute…

    For my kids, I was lucky enough to get them good used cars & they entered a contract with us on acceptable behavior (grades, partying, driving monitoring, accidents, etc) with penalties for falling short, varying from grounding, losing keys, financial (deductible/increased premium) to ultimately the car being sold and riding the bus. They weren’t angels, but having a car is a powerful motivator for good behavior.

    That said, having a “cool” car strengthens the motivation. A teenage boy is less concerned about losing keys to a Volvo station wagon vs. a Challenger…
     
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  10. Cloverdale

    Cloverdale Full Access Member

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    I suspect we all get challenged at stop lights and beyond by many new young drivers in anything they happen to be behind the wheel of. My point is some will get themselves into trouble driving anything. The Gassman's points are worth incorporating for sure.