Roaring onto the scene is the 2023 Dodge SRT Challenger Demon 170, a formidable street-legal drag-strip warrior boasting an incredible 1025 horsepower. Crafted in Ontario, Canada, this powerhouse shares visual cues with its 2018 predecessor, the limited-edition Demon. However, Dodge’s engineering team has worked its magic to extract a four-digit horsepower from the renowned Hellcat V-8.
Fueled by E85 gasoline, this 6.2-litre beast earns its “170” designation, and even on 91-octane gas, it commands a staggering 900 horses. The 2023 Dodge Demon 170 serves as a bold and unforgettable farewell to an already legendary lineage of muscle cars.
Evolution of Dodge Demon Challenger
Dodge’s bold journey began in 2015 with the Challenger SRT Hellcat, sporting a formidable 707-hp supercharged V-8 that outpaced its rivals. Priced around £45,000, it brought hypercar-like power at a relative bargain.
The 2018 Demon followed, designed for drag racing with 840 hp and a wheelie-popping capability, making it a limited-production sensation at roughly £65,000. The 2019 Hellcat Redeye continued the legacy, while 2020 saw the introduction of the Super Stock, a Demon successor with 807 hp and a quarter-mile time of 10.5 seconds.
Now, in 2023, Dodge fans face a moment they’ve been dreading—it’s the end of an era. The beloved Hellcat V-8, which powered Chargers and Challengers for almost ten years, is saying goodbye. Sadly, both car models will stop being made this year to make room for the new era of electric muscle cars.
Comparison Between the 2018 and 2023 Dodge Challenger
The 2023 Demon is coming out with various upgrades it can reach 60 mph in 1.66 seconds and cover a quarter-mile in 8.91 seconds at 151.2 mph on a specially prepared dragstrip. Whereas, the 2018 model takes 2.3 seconds to hit 60 mph and finishes a quarter-mile run in 9.65 seconds at 140 mph.
Here, take a look at some of the main differences that the models have.
| Attributes | 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon | 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 |
| Engine | Supercharged 6.2-liter (376 cu. in.) HEMI® Demon H.O. V8 | Supercharged 6.2-liter (376 cu. in.) HEMI® C-170 V8 |
| Horsepower | 840 horsepower | 1,025 horsepower |
| Torque | 770 Ib.-ft. of torque | 945 Ib.-ft. of torque |
| 0-60mph | 2.3 sec. | 1.66 sec. |
| ¼-Mile Speed | 140 mph | 156 mph |
| Base Model Price | £65,586 | £79,000 |
Review of the 2023 Dodge Demon Challenger
The 2023 Dodge Demon 170 goes beyond a simple modification, undergoing extensive driveline changes for impressive performance. With a larger 3.0-liter supercharger, a 105mm throttle body, and an increased boost at 21.3 psi, compared to its predecessor’s 15.3 psi, this powerhouse stands out.
Smart engine management adapts to varying ethanol levels, optimizing fueling and spark timing. The instrument panel displays ethanol proportion, unlocking the full 1,025 hp when exceeding 65 per cent.
Its eight-speed automatic transmission features an improved TransBrake 2.0 for precise strip launches. Dodge Direct Connection accessories offer drag-racing enthusiasts options like a harness bar, carbon-fibre rear seat delete panel, and even a parachute.
How Fast is Demon 170?
In simpler terms, when testing the Demon 170’s speed, remember that the impressive numbers Dodge boasts were achieved on a special track with extra grip. In regular conditions, the 0-60 time might be around two seconds, and the quarter-mile result could be in the nines. Dodge emphasises that hitting these specific numbers needs an ideal setup – a well-prepped track, perfect air conditions, and a skilled driver.
Unlike some fancy sports cars, the Demon 170 doesn’t have a high-tech launch control system. But Dodge has given it features to help drivers handle its power. The new launch procedure lets the driver keep the throttle flat-footed at the start, and if the tires spin, the infotainment system lets the driver customize the power for the first 1.6 seconds of the next run. There are also settings to smooth out gear shifts if the tires slip during changes.
While the Demon 170 can technically do an 8.9-second quarter-mile right from the dealer, finding a track that allows it can be tough. If you manage to go below a 9.0-second quarter mile, you’ll need a roll cage and a parachute for certain events. To buy a Demon, customers must sign an affidavit, acknowledging the risks of driving a car that’s pushing performance limits.
Dodge Demon Pricing and Colour Options
Priced at approximately £79,000 in the UK, this limited run includes 3,300 models, with 3,000 designated for the U.S. market. The Demon 170 showcases a robust 1,025 horsepower, resembling its predecessor while turning up the power. Customisation options are minimal, with a lightweight wheel package available, promising a weight reduction of 25 pounds.
Dodge also hints at an extra street-tire package, although costs remain unspecified. While choices are limited, buyers can bring their wheel-and-tire preferences, and for the adventurous, an optional passenger seat is on the table.
The Dodge Demon 170 offers a wide spectrum of choices with a total of 14 colours, featuring a captivating blend of retro and modern hues. This extensive colour palette allows buyers to customise their Demon 170 to match their unique preferences, combining classic and contemporary aesthetics for a truly personalised touch.
2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 Specs
| S.No. | Attributes | Specifications |
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Horsepower | 1,025 total horsepower at 6,500rpm |
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Torque | 945 lb.-ft of torque at 4,200 rpm |
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Starting Price | £79,000 |
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Colours | Available in 14 Colours |
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Engine | 6.2L V8 Supercharged D170 Engine |
Features of the Newest Dodge Demon
1. Engine and Performance
The best thing about the Demon 170 is its boastful engine. The vehicle is equipped with a very special 6.2-liter V-8 which is an upgrade from the last one. When it uses a type of fuel called E85, it can go super fast, with 1025 horsepower and 945 pound-feet of power. If E85 is not around, it can still go fast with 900 horses and 810 pound-feet using regular fuel.
The car’s important parts like the driveshaft and rear axle are also stronger. It uses an eight-speed automatic transmission and has a cool brake for quick starts. The Demon 170 rides on big Mickey Thompson tires, and it can cover a short distance fast- 8.61 seconds for a quarter-mile. But, this needs a special road. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.66 seconds.
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2. Fuel Economy
The Demon 170 is unmistakably hungry for gasoline, announcing its power with a thunderous engine roar. But, this much power makes the vehicle more costlier than before. According to EPA estimates, it averages around 13 miles per gallon in the city and 21 miles per gallon on the highway. It’s essential to note that these figures might decrease further when pushing the car to its limits on a local drag strip.
So, while the Demon 170 dominates the road with unparalleled performance, fuel economy is not its strong suit. Prospective buyers should be ready for frequent visits to the gas pump, an acceptable trade-off for the adrenaline-fueled experience it provides.
3. Interiors
Even though the new Demon packs more power, its interior doesn’t stray far from the typical Dodge Challenger model. The standard Demon 170 includes a single cloth driver’s seat, but in our trial, both front seats were upgraded to optional Nappa leather. Previously, the passenger seat required an extra dollar, and a similar arrangement is likely this time.
Each Demon purchase comes with a special set featuring a Demon-themed decanter engraved with the vehicle’s VIN, coasters, whiskey cubes, rocks glasses, and other VIN-specific items. Optional upgrades include heated and ventilated seats, along with a heated steering wheel.
4. Exteriors
The Demon 170 inherits its front design from the previous Demon but skips the fender flares to shed 16 pounds. A unique badge with a 170 neck tattoo and yellow eyes nods to the E85 fuel. With 14 colour options, including classics like B5 Blue and Plum Crazy Purple, the Demon 170 lets you personalise. You can choose Satin Black on the hood or extend it to the hood, roof, and trunk.
Inside, options range from a simple cloth-upholstered driver’s seat to a more lightweight setup without trunk carpet, sound insulation, and a two-speaker stereo. For a bit of luxury, there’s a mix of black Alcantara and Laguna leather with heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and an 18-speaker stereo. You can even add a sunroof if you like.
5. Infotainment and Connectivity
The Demon, like its fellow Challengers, features a user-friendly touchscreen powered by Dodge’s Uconnect system. It includes standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless connectivity. To keep things light, the Demon comes with a basic two-speaker audio system as standard.
However, for those seeking a premium audio experience, there’s an option to upgrade to Harman Kardon’s 18-speaker sound system. This upgrade not only enhances the audio quality but also adds a touch of luxury to the driving experience.
6. Quarter-Mile Times
The 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 sets a thrilling trade-off, delivering exceptional performance despite lower MPG ratings. Boasting the highest acceleration G-force globally at 2.004 lateral Gs, this beast accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 1.66 seconds, earning the title of the world’s fastest-accelerating production car.
Continuing its relentless speed, the Demon 170 conquers an 8.91-second quarter mile at an impressive 151.17 mph, making history as the first street-legal muscle car to break into the eight-second range. Although the top speed remains unannounced, the Demon 170’s breathtaking acceleration ensures an exhilarating ride.
7. Safety and Driver-Assistance
If you’re curious about the safety features in the Demon 170, Dodge hasn’t provided specific details yet, so those prioritizing such features might want to explore alternative options. For additional insights into the Challenger’s safety performance, you can refer to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
You’ll find everything on these websites like the crash test results and comprehensive safety evaluations. It’s always a good practice to stay informed about a vehicle’s safety credentials before making a purchase decision.
8. Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The Demon offers standard warranties, including a three-year or 36,000-mile coverage for general issues and a five-year or 60,000-mile warranty for essential engine and transmission components.
It’s important to note that Dodge doesn’t provide complimentary scheduled maintenance, unlike some competitors such as BMW and Chevrolet. This means owners will need to handle routine maintenance costs separately.
Conclusion
The Dodge Demon 170 with a starting price of will manufacture only 3,300 units. The final count depends on production capacity, limited to the period from July to December 31, 2023. Orders will kick off on March 27, 2024, with priority given to MSRP orders to prevent overpricing.
For those who owned an original 2018 Challenger SRT Demon, requesting a Demon 170 VIN matching their previous model is possible. Buyers receive a package containing personalised items like a Demon-styled decanter, coasters, whiskey cubes, rocks glasses, a Demon 170 supercharger badge cover, and an illustrated pack cover.
So, if you are planning to buy the devil of the cars, you need to get in line to get your hands on it as soon as possible! For more information, visit Celebzero.