Challenger SRT Demon 170: Impressive Acceleration, But How Accurate Are the Figures?

The 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 has been the talk of the automotive industry for its impressive acceleration time of 1.66 seconds from 0 to 60 mph. However, recent concerns have been raised regarding how Dodge achieved this record-breaking time through a video by the Engineering Explained YouTube channel.

It is standard practice in the auto industry to ignore the first foot of acceleration when calculating 0 to 60 mph times, known as rollout. This technique gives automakers an advantage in achieving better acceleration times. However, Dodge has stated that the 1.66-second time is only achievable on prepped surfaces, which provide extra traction and grip, not found on public roads.

The Demon 170 is a prepped drag strip machine whose performance figures rely heavily on surface conditions.

The Engineering Explained video suggests that the actual time, without a rollout but on a prepped surface, will likely be between 1.79 and 1.91 seconds. The predicted time on normal roads is around 2.5 seconds, still an impressive acceleration time. However, it is essential to note that these figures are based on mathematical predictions, not actual data.

The Demon 170 uses drag radials, specifically 315/50R17 Mickey Thompson ET Street R tires, to achieve these impressive acceleration times. These tires are suitable for the strip but not ideal for non-prepped surfaces, so Dodge offers an optional wheel-and-tire package that is more forgiving on public roads.

The car that achieved the 1.66-second time was a completely stripped-down version. In 2018, only 16 out of the 3,312 total units of the original Demon were built with a single seat. Therefore, it is unlikely that many of these cars will be made in the stripped-down configuration. The Demon 170 is priced at $96,666 before taxes and fees, with additional options like the $11,495 carbon fiber and two-piece aluminum wheels.

Despite the concerns raised by the Engineering Explained video, the 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 is still a formidable machine with exceptional power and acceleration. In addition, it is an impressive vehicle that provides a unique driving experience, and Dodge has put a lot of thought and effort into its design and performance.

While achieving the Demon 170’s acceleration time under usual driving conditions may not be possible, it is still a car that will catch attention on the road or at the drag strip. This is because it offers unrivaled performance and is a testament to Dodge’s engineering capabilities.

Source: Motor1 / Engineering Explained