Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 vs. Tesla Model S Plaid

Dodge concluded production of its last supercharged HEMI® muscle car this past Friday – the extraordinary 1,025 horsepower 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170. With its 1,025 horsepower (at 6,500 rpm) and 945 lb.-ft. (at 4,200 rpm) production HEMI® engine, the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 rockets to 60 mph in a stunning 1.66 seconds, boasting the highest G-force acceleration of any production car at 2.004 gs. Additionally, the Demon 170 can reach 900 horsepower and 810 lb.-ft. of torque on E10 fuel.

Recently, our friend, YouTuber RacerX, was fortunate enough to acquire one of the limited-production muscle cars. After putting 800 miles on the vehicle post-delivery, he headed to Bradenton Motorsports Park to meet up with from the YouTube channel DragTimes, who brought his 1,020 horsepower tri-motor Tesla Model S Plaid.

In contrast to the Demon 170, the Plaid features all-wheel drive (AWD), enabling it to launch to 60 mph in under 2 seconds. On paper, these two monsters seem evenly matched. The Demon shed its passenger and rear seats to minimize weight.

During their first attempt, Brooks executed a superior launch compared to the Demon, clinching victory through skill, power, and style. However, the Demon struggled due to its overwhelming power and couldn’t help but attempt a “wheelie,” while the AWD Tesla effortlessly surged ahead.

In a thrilling rematch, the Demon, displayed its prowess off the line, taking an early lead. However, the relentless force of the Tesla’s AWD, propelled it forward, ultimately securing another victory with a 9.4-second finish, while the Demon crossed the line in 9.7 seconds, valiantly competing despite the challenges.

Despite the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170’s awe-inspiring power, its struggle to maintain traction off the line proved to be a decisive factor in the face-off against the Tesla Model S Plaid. The Demon’s wheel-lifting antics, witnessed by enthusiasts following RacerX’s experiences, presented a formidable challenge, highlighting the need for optimal traction to fully harness its extraordinary power.

They attempted a third run, but the Demon encountered technical issues, forcing it to exit the race.

Despite the Challenger’s loss, a silver lining emerges upon reevaluation. Its struggle to keep all four wheels grounded during the launch severely disadvantaged it, mainly causing its defeat. Under ‘fair’ conditions, the outcome might have differed significantly.

Nonetheless, we anticipate seeing these formidable competitors clash again soon.