Dodge is preparing to launch its seventh and final 2023 “Last Call” special-edition model, which promises to deliver mind-boggling horsepower and demolish drag strips. As the global debut draws near, we are seeing several new details leak online just days before the new car’s official debut.
One thing that everyone has agreed upon is that the car will run on E85. But some of the teaser videos have led many to think that the new drag racing-oriented Dodge Challenger will have a HELLCAT Redeye engine with a 3.0-liter IHI supercharger on top.
Recently, the new Direct Connection HELLEPHANT C-170 crate engine was introduced at the 2022 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show. The C-170 crate motor is a new entry to the HELLEPHANT lineup and features an upgraded 6.2-liter (376 cubic-inch) cast-iron long block and features the 3.0-liter IHI supercharger the teasers hinted at, with an improved intercooler, larger snout, and a 3.02-inch pulley for increased boost and 105mm throttle body with new housing, blade, shaft, and geartrain for increased airflow. The engine features stronger rods, pistons, upgraded hardware, and an improved valvetrain to produce approximately 900 horsepower on premium fuel, based on preliminary estimates.
What makes the C-170 unique is that it has an upgraded fuel system and flex-fuel capability, delivering over 1,000 horsepower with E85 fuel, based on preliminary estimates. Other features include main and rod bearing material upgraded to copper-lead for increased load capability, upgraded crank damper to absorb torsional impacts due to increased combustion pressure, improved head and primary cap fasteners for increased clamp load capability, billet steel main caps for improved strength, and ethanol sensor and upgraded fuel rail and injectors for improved fuel flow to support E85 fuel.
A leaked video making its way around the internet gave us a look under the hood of what is thought to be the new Challenger. We see a very similar engine to the HELLCAT Redeye, but this time we see that the SRT plate is gone in favor of the familiar one found on top of the Demon supercharger, with the text ‘C-170’ on the bottom left corner of it, hinting that it is indeed the Direct Connection crate motor.
At the start of the boot-up process, the video displays the Demon logo, which is identical to the one found on the startup screen of the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) in the 2018 model. However, there is one noticeable difference – the Demon logo now features striking yellow eyes.
We could also see two build sheets for these new cars thanks to the clever forum members at HELLCATForum.org.
The car will be available with only a driver seat with a passenger seat delete and rear seat delete, just like the 2018 model. Other features include real carbon fiber accents, trunk carpet delete, Alcantara steering wheel with Red LED lighting, 3.09 rear axle ratio, 240mm rear axle, and return of the SRT® Power Chiller and Transbrake.
What stood out on the build sheets was the addition of what the sheets call CP suspension (drive shaft), CP braking, and CP badges. We found part numbers for each of the three, saying that they are for a 2023 Dodge Challenger without a listing of a trim.
Other stand-out options were a rear fender flare but no front one, a 2-speaker minimal audio system, and even having the trunk light deleted. We did see on the fully loaded build sheet that many options did seem on par with the 2018 model, such as Laguna Nappa Leather seats, Harman Kardon GreenEdge audio system, Premium Comfort Group, Comfort Group, and even a suede headliner.
Based on the available information, it appears that this new car will draw heavy inspiration from the original Demon but with a greater emphasis on weight reduction and increased horsepower to achieve an impressive 1/4-mile time of 8 seconds. Enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the car’s official unveiling and are excited to witness its performance on the drag strip.
On a happier note, if you can’t get your hand on one of these cars, the C-170 is scheduled to be available in the Direct Connection catalog in Q3 of this year.
Make sure to tune in to MoparInsiders.com on Monday at 9:00 p.m. EST / 6:00 p.m. PDT to witness the unveiling of the “Last Call” Challenger, if you’re interested in seeing what it’s all about.
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