July 2009 Archives

When the Charger name first appeared, this high end trimline of the Dodge Dart was powered by a meager 180 horsepower, 273 cubic inch engine and struggled with its intended competition, the new Ford Mustang. The Charger name was popular, however, so the 1966 Dodge Charger was given a chance with a new body and soul, and eventually, a powerful new heart - the Hemi.

2009 brought us the 4th generation of the Dodge Ram, and the 2010 Dodge Ram 1500 builds from on the popularity of the 2009 models.  The 2010 Dodge Ram will feature all of the new items found on the 2009 models, with the key feature being the 5.7L Hemi engine.  The 2009 Ram got a big jump in power, up to 390 horsepower, and we can expect the 2010 Dodge Ram to have similar power levels.  However, in speaking with a few testing engineers from Chrysler, there have been comments made about how the current 5.7L Hemi powered "mule" test vehicles are all carrying 400 horsepower engines.  With Chevrolet and Toyota offering 400+ horsepower models, it wouldn't be a shock to see the Hemi Ram boasting more power in the near future but with the 2010 models nearing arrival there has been official word yet on a power increase.  The good news is that the Hemi will continue to feature Chrysler's Multiple Displacement System (MDS), allowing the mighty Hemi to offer better fuel economy than any of the comparable trucks in its class.

The 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 followed the initial revival of the Challenger as one of the most anticipated sophomore years since the days when Dodge muscle cars ruled the streets with V8 rear wheel drive performance. The 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 offered a change from the then-current lineup of predominantly sedans, trucks, and minivans, and Dodge enthusiasts all over the country lined up to get their hands on the first release of reborn Mopar muscle.