A Sneak Peek At The 2023 Dodge Direct Connection Grudge Race Lineup

The 2023 Dodge Direct Connection Grudge Race at MotorTrend Presents Roadkill Nights Powered by Dodge is back with a twist in its annual competition. This year, the event introduces a new mentor-rookie format that promises to deliver intense racing action as six teams pit their meticulously crafted machines against each other. With a common foundation – the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® HELLCrate Redeye engine from Direct Connection – each team brings its unique flare to the racetrack.

Team Thortl: Dominating with a Gen II Viper RT/10

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Returning for the third consecutive year, Team Thortl is revving up with the same GEN II Dodge Viper RT/10, then ran last year. The Direct Connection HELLCrate Redeye engine’s raw power pulses through this Viper’s veins, while a smart switch to the TH400 automatic transmission enhances its performance. Notably, the engine has received an upgrade, including a 2.65-inch upper pulley, Magnaflow custom headers, exhaust modifications, an E85 tune, and a touch of nitrous. Traction is ensured by a Penske suspension system and a set of Hoosier slicks at the rear.

Team Corruptt: Elevating a 1969 Plymouth Barracuda

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Veteran racer Tony Arme leads Team Corruptt alongside rookie Kayla Rundle, with their eyes set on victory with a 1969 Plymouth Barracuda that was also used last year at Roadkill Nights. In this car, the Direct Connection HELLCrate Redeye engine underwent a transformation at SRT® Autoworks, receiving ARP head studs, a custom camshaft, and a beefed-up 2.7-liter IHI supercharger equipped with the SDG Motorsports Trifect package. As a performance-packed weapon, this Barracuda flaunts a fully kitted Aeromotive fuel system, a modified exhaust manifold, an ATI custom TH400 transmission, and custom suspension components.

Team Soul Snatcher: Unleashing the Power in a 2009 Dodge Charger

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Team Soul Snatcher, guided by mentor and 2022 competitor Herman Young (aka Demonology), brings a 2009 Dodge Charger to the battleground. Partnering with Nyle Maxwell Dodge Power Brokers dealership and Baily’s Hyperformance, this team wields the Direct Connection Redeye crate engine mated to a Rossler Transmission Turbo 400. Young’s expertise in the modern Mopar community is evident in this build, aimed at striking the perfect balance between divulging details and preserving race-winning secrets.

Team Sick Bastards: A Classic Twist with a 1965 Plymouth Belvedere A/FX

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Mentor Tom Bailey and rookie EJ Naegeli form Team Sick Bastards, offering a nod to the past with a 1965 Plymouth Belvedere A/FX car. This nostalgic gem houses the Direct Connection HELLCrate Redeye engine matched to a TH400 automatic transmission. This altered wheelbase racecar is enhanced with Holley, Cam Motion, and Aeromotive components ready to deliver an exhilarating performance. Expert AJ Berge provided the custom engine calibration required for substantial power gains.

Team Truck Yeah: Pioneering with a 1995 Dodge Ram 1500 Regular Cab Short Box

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Taking a bold leap, Team Truck Yeah arrives with a 1995 Dodge Ram 1500 Regular Cab Short Box (which started life as a limited edition BIG DADDY Don Garlits conversion truck by Mark III), a true reflection of their daring spirit. With the Direct Connection HELLCrate Redeye engine and an RPM TH400 transmission, this unconventional entry is primed for drag strip domination. This beautiful truck is sure to turn heads on Woodward Ave, equipped with an Aeromotive fuel system, Holley Dominator ECU, and a custom rear suspension setup.

Team Dahminator: Reviving the Classic Challenger

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Team Dahminator’s 1971 Dodge Challenger combines classic charm with modern muscle. Born from a former Chrysler employee’s cherished Challenger, this car retains its stripped-down allure. Yet, beneath the hood roars an 807-horsepower Direct Connection HELLCrate Redeye engine. With its Weld Racing wheels, Mickey Thompson’s massive tires, and functional air conditioning, the Dahminator stands as a tribute to its streetcar roots, elevated by the unmatched power within.

Tune in to MoparInsiders.com at 3:40 p.m. EST to catch every heart-stopping moment of the Dodge Direct Connection Grudge Race. The Livestream will be posted starting at 10:00 a.m. EST tomorrow morning.