
The answer is yes. The present Dodge Challenger is no slouch in the performance department and should make any past Challenger fan proud. The 2008 and newer Dodge Challenger can be optioned in SE, RT, RT Classic and SRT8 trim levels. The SE carries the base V6, not unlike the original base charger model with its straight-6. The RT and RT Classic are available with 5.7-liter HEMI V8 (somewhere along the way Hemi gets changed to all-caps in between 1970 and today). Something that is very different is that the 5-speed, 6-speed and Automatic transmission all put out different horsepower. In order they produce, 375 hp, 376 hp and 372 hp. Then you get the SRT8 which comes with a 425 hp 6.1-liter HEMI V-8.

Now for the real comparison—the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 will run 0-60 in 5.1 seconds and the ¼ mile in 13.2 seconds at 107.5 mph (according to Edmunds.com tests). This compares to the 1970 Challenger 426 Hemi that would do 0-60 in 6.3 seconds and the ¼ mile in 13.1 seconds at 107.1 mph (Car Craft 1969). So in the end, if you are looking for a new car with a warranty and maybe a future collectors item then go get a new Challenger. If you are looking for a collectible and the original then find yourself a 1970 or 1971 Challenger 426 Hemi. Chances are the 2009 is going to be more affordable in the long run.
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