When the 2008 SRT was released, I thought that the run would be very short (like the 1970-1974 models, where only 165,437 were made) and it would be a collectible. Now, after 13 years and 675,657 made through 2021 (see below), don't expect the same results. Perhaps only limited, high-end models like the Demon, Redeye and Mopar Drag Pack may be worth big bucks in the future. (Note- Even the Hellcat has been produced in big numbers- 30,000 in only 3 years). 2008- 17,423 2009- 25,852 2010- 36,791 2011- 39,534 2012- 46,788 2013- 51,462 2014- 51,611 2015- 66,365 2016- 64,478 2017- 64,537 2018- 66,716 2019- 60,997 2020- 52,955 2021- 30,148 TOTAL= 675,657 1970- 76,935 1971- 26,299 1972- 22,919 1973- 27,930 1974- 11,354 TOTAL= 165,437
Big numbers for sure BUT with Hemi engines eventually leaving us, probably forever, the garage queen, low mileage examples will still be strongly desired. It will take 20 years after the last Hemi rolls off the line but the values will start increasing again. I witnessed this first hand with the 4th generation LS1 Camaros/Firebirds. Being the owner of a 2001 since new I witnessed the absolute bottom dollar of these cars with most models going for under $10k except for those crazy low mileage examples that were never driven. Every car forum member would laugh at the 'worthless' F-bodies when collectible value was mentioned. With the last Firebird rolling off the assembly line in 2002, the values have amazingly risen to levels even I am surprised with. Hagerty gave me a $16k value (I didn't ask for that much) for my 77,000 miles 'good' condition Trans Am. The next price point for a 'very good to excellent' example was over $20k. Car and Driver magazine priced them in the high teens for clean examples. Apparently there just are not many left that have not been beaten or modded to death. The 'collectible' anniversary versions have been selling in the $30k - $40k plus range. Our Hemi Challengers will probably follow the same lows and eventual highs as they age. Top models first of course, then the well optioned examples, especially low mileage one owner cars. You have to consider so many other factors as well, from politics to the availability of gasoline. Time will tell. Let's enjoy these wonderful Challengers for ourselves and don't worry about value.
Someone posted a quote about garage queens. It stated, "Not driving your car is like saving your wife for her next husband." So true.
