One of the most fun aspects of my job is getting to drive exciting new cars that most people haven't even seen yet.

When our dealership gets one of these limited production cars, and I take it out for a drive (even if it's just around the block), it's common to have people flock around me wherever I happen to stop.

Attention or not, the car is awesome to drive. Chrysler says the car can go 170 mph, which is impressive, but certainly not legal anywhere here in Rockville, Maryland or anywhere in the United States for that matter -- except on a closed track.

The 2008 Challenger SRT8 (base price $37,320 plus $675 freight), officially goes on sale in June, is a precursor to the full Challenger line that will make its debut this fall as 2009 models. The SRT8 comes with the biggest engine that will be offered in the Challenger, a 6.1-liter Hemi V-8 rated at 425 horsepower and 420 foot-pounds of torque.

For 2009, an R/T model will be added, with a 5.7-liter Hemi engine, and there will be a V-6 powered SE model as well.



In the 2008 model, only a five-speed automatic transmission is offered; when the 2009 SRT8 arrives, it will be available with the automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox, and a limited-slip differential will be optional as well.

This new Challenger has the looks and raw power of the old Challenger, but the benefits of modern chassis engineering, great brakes and state-of-the-art safety features. But that retro look is what turns heads, and even people who later buy the V-6 version will be able to enjoy that kind of reaction from others.

The Challenger can cover a quarter-mile in 13.3 seconds and can go from 60 to zero in about 100 feet, thanks to its Brembo custom brakes.

Its modern technology includes advanced electronic stability and traction control, side-curtain air bags and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 522-watt audio system comes with 13 speakers, including a 200-watt subwoofer, and it has a 30-gigabyte hard drive to store thousands of songs internally.

Other features include Sirius satellite radio, push-button start and an optional navigation system.

The SRT8 version is a product of Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology group, which gave it the big Hemi engine.

EPA ratings are 13 miles per gallon in the city and 18 on the highway, and the tank holds 19 gallons of fuel. Unleaded premium is recommended for the best performance, but regular is acceptable.

If the thought of missing out on one of these rare 2008-model HEMI-powered beasts is keeping you awake at night and you just can't wait for next year, come on over to Reed Brothers Dodge in Rockville, Maryland. Our Challenger will not go on eBay like so many other dealers -- more than two dozen of the $37,995 (base MSRP) cars have been put on the auction site -- mostly by dealers with prices in the mid-$50,000 range.

Our Limited Edition 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 is identified by a dash plaque indicating that it is #1442 of 6400 of the Limited Edition production. Become one of the lucky 6400 Challenger SRT8 owners to get behind the wheel of this future classic. This Challenger is stunning and it is on our showroom floor now for sale.

Call Reed Brothers Dodge in Rockville, Maryland at 877-681-5021 or visit our website www.reedbrothersdodge.com

Reed Brothers Dodge is conveniently located on Route 355 at the Shady Grove Metro at 15955 Frederick Rd in Rockville, Maryland 20855.

Powering the SRT8 is Chrysler's familiar 6.1-liter pushrod "Hemi" V-8. The beastly engine puts out 425 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque and sounds fantastic. Those wishing for a manual transmission will have to wait until late summer and the 2009 model year, as the initial cars are only available with a five-speed automatic. Look for less-powerful (and less expensive) versions of the Challenger to also be launched for 2009.

For now, buyers can choose a Dodge Challenger sprayed in Hemi orange, silver, or black. If we can give you a bit of advice, go with the orange. It looks fantastic with all the black detailing on this rear-wheel-drive coupe.

Interior 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 highlights include leather seats with added bolstering and an orange accent stripe, stitched accents, four-bomb gauges with tachometer and 180 mph speedometer in the center, and an SRT-exclusive Reconfigurable Display (RCD) with Performances Pages that provide drivers instant feedback on 0-60 mph time, 60-0 mph braking, g-forces and ¼-mile time. Standard on the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 is a 13-speaker Kicker High Performance audio system with a 322-watt amplifier and 200-watt subwoofer, and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. A MyGIG infotainment system is also available.

* Ram air hood: Replacement aluminum hood features scoop that pays respect to Dodge heritage
* Challenger graphics packages: Heritage-inspired designs constructed of production-quality material
* Rear park distance sensors: Sensor technology sends ultrasonic waves at 40,000 times-per-second to detect obstacles behind Dodge Challenger and alert driver to objects
* Vehicle cover: Constructed of premium material with custom fit
* "T-grip' automatic shift handle: Molded for an ergonomic fit. Features bright chrome finish and Mopar logo
* Bright pedal kit (automatic transmission): polished stainless steel, designed to fit production pedals
* Custom center stack and console: Replacement appliqués in Red and Blue
* Door sill kit: brushed stainless steel embossed with Dodge Challenger logo
* iPod integration kit, Garmin Nuvi Portable Navigation System, Premium mats
* Functional ram air-intake system: Creates ram air effect at speeds of 40-plus miles-per-hour by integrating hood and cold-air intake system
* Cold-air intake system: noticeable horsepower and torque gains by routing cool air through a directional cone filter into intake manifold
* Low-restriction air filter: Direct replacement for the factory-installed filter. Offers high-flow/low-restriction to improve throttle response, filtration and horsepower
* Rear-exit/low-restriction Cat-back Exhaust System: Features reflective sound cancellation (RSC) no-drone technology, 2.75-inch, 304L stainless steel mandrel bent tubing, stainless clamps and polished 4-inch pro-series exhaust. (304 is a stainless steel grade, moderately corrosion-resistant, like a high end kitchen sink. 304L is the low carbon variant that is weldable).
* Long-tube exhaust headers (automatic transmission only): Add estimated 14-17 horsepower gain
* Coil-over suspension kit: Allows up to 1.625-inch ride-height drop
* Stage I performance springs: Reduce ride height 1-inch for that low, custom look. For owners who desire a sporty yet comfortable ride
* Strut tower brace: Reduces body flex in the front end. Improves handling and drivability
* Forged crankshaft for 5.7-liter HEMI® and 6.1-liter HEMI: High-strength premium quality 4104 forged-steel crankshafts deliver outstanding performance gains
* 5.7-liter HEMI and 6.1-liter HEMI street camshafts: Designed, developed, dyno- and track-tested for increased power and rpm
* CNC-ported 5.7-liter HEMI and 6.1-liter HEMI cylinder heads: Bolt-on cylinder heads designed to optimize flow while maintaining optimum port velocity
* Performance gauges: Utilize reverse lighting technology to radiate intense, blue LED through the dial.