The 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 was one of the most highly anticipated and sought-after vehicles of its time. Boasting four-figure horsepower, this special edition car marked the end of an era for the Challenger coupe and its Dodge Charger sedan sibling. With production limited and final numbers to be determined, the last available build slot for the Demon 170 was auctioned off at Barrett-Jackson’s New Orleans auction on June 24, selling for an impressive $700,000.
It is important to note that this auction was not for the last Demon 170 in existence, but rather the last opportunity for buyers to secure a spot in line for the upcoming production. The proceeds from the auction, totaling $700,000, were donated to the Kristi House charity, which is dedicated to eradicating child abuse and child sex trafficking. In addition to securing a build slot, the winning bidder also earned the option of choosing custom paint for their one-of-one car.
The official MSRP for the Demon 170 is $96,666, but when factoring in a $1,595 destination charge and a $2,100 gas guzzler tax, the effective base price comes to $100,361. It is worth mentioning that the buyer will have to pay at least the base price, plus any additional charges that the dealer may add on.
Under the hood, the Demon 170 is powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine that produces an impressive 1,025 horsepower and 945 lb-ft of torque when fueled with E85. Using premium fuel (E10) drops the power output to 900 hp and 810 lb-ft of torque, but the engine has the capability to run on a combination of both fuels. In fact, the name “Demon 170” references the 170-proof rating of E85 fuel.
Performance-wise, the Demon 170 is a true beast on the road. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in an impressive 1.66 seconds and can pull 2.0 g off the line on a prepped surface without any rollout. Moreover, it can tackle the quarter mile in an NHRA-certified 8.91 seconds at a mind-boggling speed of 151.17 mph, with a 60-foot time of just 1.20 seconds. These figures make the Demon 170 one of the fastest production cars ever created.
While the Demon 170 holds a special place in the hearts of Dodge enthusiasts, it also faced some controversy. The NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) issued a violation letter to Dodge due to the car’s ability to run a sub-nine-second quarter mile. Any car that achieves quarter-mile times under 10 seconds requires a safety cage, and times below nine seconds mandate a parachute. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in a ban from NHRA-sanctioned events. Nonetheless, this controversy only added to the allure and reputation of the Demon 170.
Looking ahead, the Demon 170 represents a turning point for Dodge and its muscle car lineup. While the V-8 engine will continue to exist in Dodge models for the time being, the future of performance vehicles lies in electric power. This shift is evident in the Charger Daytona SRT Concept, a wild electric concept car that provides a sneak peek into Dodge’s upcoming electric roadmap. Dodge’s electric performance models will share platforms with other Stellantis brands, setting the stage for an exciting and innovative future.
In conclusion, the 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 captured the attention and admiration of car enthusiasts around the world. Its limited production, jaw-dropping performance figures, and philanthropic auction added to its mystique. As the final “Last Call” special edition for the current era of Challenger and Charger models, the Demon 170 marks the end of an iconic chapter in Dodge’s history while paving the way for an electrifying future.
