2018 Dodge Demon 170: Specs, Features, And Performance

Hey gearheads! Ever heard of a car that practically defies the laws of physics? Well, buckle up, because we're diving headfirst into the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170, a beast so extreme, so unapologetically powerful, that it redefined what a street-legal muscle car could be. This wasn't just another performance upgrade; it was a full-blown, track-ready terror that also happened to be street legal (with a few modifications). The Demon 170, the final iteration of the Challenger SRT Demon, was built to be the ultimate expression of Dodge's muscle car philosophy: raw power, straight-line speed, and a whole lot of attitude. So, let's unpack everything about this incredible machine and see what made it such a legend.

The Heart of the Beast: Engine and Performance

Alright, guys, let's get straight to the good stuff: the engine. The 2018 Dodge Demon 170 wasn't messing around; it was powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engine. Now, you might be thinking, "Hold on, didn't the original Demon have a supercharged 6.2-liter V8?" You're right, it did. But the Demon 170 took things to a whole new level. Dodge engineers made significant upgrades to the engine, including a larger supercharger, a revised fuel system, and other enhancements, to unleash a mind-blowing amount of power. The Demon 170 delivered an insane amount of horsepower: a staggering 1,025 horsepower and 945 lb-ft of torque when running on E85 fuel. When you fuel it with premium gasoline, it still cranks out an impressive 900 horsepower and 810 lb-ft of torque. This power was sent to the rear wheels via an enhanced version of the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. This car could go from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 1.66 seconds, making it one of the quickest accelerating production cars ever made. The quarter-mile time was an astonishing 8.91 seconds at 151.17 mph. Seriously, these are numbers that would make a drag strip champion jealous!

To handle all this power, the Demon 170 came with numerous performance-focused features. The car included a TransBrake system, which locks the transmission to allow the driver to build up RPMs before launch. It also featured an upgraded suspension, drag-ready tires, and a unique aerodynamics package to maximize grip and stability during acceleration. Dodge didn’t just slap a big engine in the Challenger and call it a day; they built a complete package designed to dominate the drag strip. They took great care to reduce weight, using components like lightweight wheels and removing the front passenger seat and rear seats. The Demon 170 was clearly made for one thing: going fast in a straight line. The extreme performance of the Demon 170 wasn't just about raw power; it was also about the technology and engineering that allowed the car to harness that power effectively. The car was equipped with a plethora of features designed to maximize grip and stability during acceleration, including drag-ready tires and a unique aerodynamics package. The Demon 170 was a testament to the engineering prowess of Dodge, which managed to create a street-legal car that could deliver mind-blowing performance without sacrificing too much drivability.

Unveiling the Specs: What Made the Demon 170 Special?

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and break down some of the key specs that made the 2018 Dodge Demon 170 so special. We've already touched on the engine, but let's dive deeper and look at the other key aspects. The Demon 170 was more than just a powerful engine; it was a carefully engineered machine built for one purpose: speed. The engine itself, as we mentioned, was a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8. It boasted an output of 1,025 horsepower and 945 lb-ft of torque on E85 fuel. It went from 0 to 60 mph in a mind-blowing 1.66 seconds. The quarter-mile time was a blazing 8.91 seconds at 151.17 mph. Now, that's what I call blistering speed, folks!

The transmission was an eight-speed automatic (TorqueFlite). The Demon 170 was only available with a rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration. Dodge engineered the Demon 170 to reduce weight as much as possible to increase performance. The base model came with only the driver's seat. All other components, such as the passenger seat, were an option. The Demon 170 had a drag-ready suspension, including adaptive damping. It was equipped with drag radial tires for maximum grip on the track. The Demon 170 included a TransBrake system to allow the driver to build up the RPMs at the line. The Demon 170 has a unique aerodynamic package, including a functional air grabber hood. The curb weight (without the passenger seat) was approximately 4,280 pounds, which contributed to the car's incredible acceleration. Dodge had a limited production run for the Demon 170. They only produced 3,300 units, making it one of the rarest modern muscle cars. The Demon 170 has a starting MSRP of around $96,000, though the current prices of this car are much higher due to its rarity and performance.

Features and Customization: Beyond Raw Power

So, the 2018 Dodge Demon 170 was a brute, but it also offered a surprising level of customization and cool features that made it even more appealing to enthusiasts. Let's take a look at some of those details. First off, Dodge was generous with options, so you could personalize your Demon 170 to your heart's content. As we mentioned, the base model came with only the driver's seat to save weight, but you could add a front passenger seat and even a rear seat. This made it a bit more practical (if you can call a car like this practical!) for occasional street use. You could also choose from a range of exterior colors, allowing you to give your Demon 170 a unique look. Inside the cabin, you'd find a driver-focused environment with plenty of performance-oriented tech. The Demon 170 had a performance-oriented gauge cluster with a customizable display that showed various metrics like G-force, boost pressure, and engine temperatures. The Uconnect infotainment system offered a user-friendly interface with features like performance pages, which allowed drivers to monitor and record their track times and performance data.

One of the coolest features was the TransBrake system. This system allows the driver to build up RPMs before launching the car, resulting in quicker and more consistent launches from a standstill. The Demon 170 came with a high-performance suspension system designed to handle the car's extreme power. The suspension system included adaptive damping to provide optimal handling on both the street and the track. The Demon 170 also had a comprehensive safety system, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Even though the Demon 170 was designed for performance, Dodge prioritized safety to ensure that the car was as safe as possible for both track use and street driving. The Demon 170's combination of raw power, performance-oriented features, and customization options made it a truly special machine. Dodge didn't just build a fast car; they crafted a unique experience that allowed drivers to unleash their inner speed demons.

Driving the Demon 170: What's It Like?

Okay, imagine yourself behind the wheel of this monster. What's it actually like to drive the 2018 Dodge Demon 170? Well, get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions. The initial experience will be one of pure exhilaration. The car launches with such ferocity that it pins you back in your seat, and the world outside becomes a blur. The acceleration is unlike anything you've likely experienced before. This car can reach highway speeds in the blink of an eye. The car's exhaust note is pure muscle car symphony, a blend of supercharger whine and a deep rumble that lets everyone know you mean business. The Demon 170 is not just about straight-line speed; the handling is surprisingly capable, thanks to its upgraded suspension and drag-ready tires. The car grips the road well, providing confidence during cornering. However, it's important to remember that this car is designed primarily for drag racing, so the handling might not match the performance of a dedicated sports car. The driving experience is raw and visceral. The car's power is always on tap, requiring a careful touch on the accelerator. It demands respect. This car is not for the faint of heart. It's a machine that demands your attention and skill.

The interior has a driver-focused design with plenty of performance-oriented features. The car features a performance gauge cluster that displays all the vital information you need to monitor the car's performance. The Demon 170 is a car that makes you feel alive. It's an experience that you will not forget. You'll quickly realize that you're in command of something truly special. The Demon 170 offers an unrivaled driving experience, a thrilling combination of raw power and track-focused performance. It's a car that will leave you grinning from ear to ear every time you drive it, but it also demands respect and skill. It's a muscle car that will never be forgotten.

The Demon 170's Legacy: A Collector's Dream

Alright, guys, let's talk about the 2018 Dodge Demon 170's legacy. Why is this car so special, and why is it so sought-after by collectors? This car is a legend! Dodge designed the Demon 170 with a very limited production run, with only 3,300 units produced. The exclusivity, combined with the car's insane performance, made it a collector's dream from the moment it was announced. The Demon 170 was the final chapter in the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon story, making it a fitting send-off for a truly iconic muscle car. Dodge didn’t just build a fast car; they created a piece of automotive history that represents the pinnacle of American muscle car performance. The car's 0 to 60 mph time of 1.66 seconds and quarter-mile time of 8.91 seconds were mind-blowing numbers. This made the Demon 170 one of the fastest production cars ever made. The Demon 170's unique features, such as the TransBrake, drag radial tires, and lightweight design, set it apart from other muscle cars. This also made it a track-ready beast. The Demon 170's legacy is secure in automotive history. It's a symbol of the raw power, straight-line speed, and unapologetic attitude that defines the muscle car culture. The Demon 170 will continue to be a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts. It's a reminder of a time when Dodge pushed the boundaries of automotive performance. The Demon 170 is a legend, a symbol of American muscle car excellence.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Muscle Car

So, there you have it, folks. The 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170. It was a car that broke the mold, redefined the limits of what a street-legal muscle car could achieve. With its mind-boggling power, impressive performance numbers, and unique features, the Demon 170 earned its place in automotive history. It’s a testament to Dodge's commitment to raw power, straight-line speed, and the pure thrill of driving. This car isn't just about the numbers; it's about the feeling. The feeling of being pinned to your seat as you launch from 0 to 60 mph in a blink of an eye. It's about the rumble of the engine and the roar of the exhaust. It's about the sense of power and control. The Demon 170 is a reminder that muscle cars can be both incredibly powerful and incredibly fun. It’s a car that enthusiasts will be talking about for years to come.

If you ever get the chance to see a Demon 170 in person, or even better, get behind the wheel, don't miss the opportunity. It's an experience you won't soon forget! The Demon 170 is more than just a car. It's an icon, a legend, and the ultimate muscle car. This car will always be remembered for its astonishing performance and its contributions to the realm of automotive history. Thanks for joining me on this deep dive into the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170. Keep on driving, and stay awesome!