Dodge Challenger Essay

The first model of the Dodge Challenger came out in the fall of 1969 as the new 1970 model. Coming in many different variations, the Challenger was Dodges attempt to compete with other muscle cars of 60’s and 70’s like the Mustang and Camaro. Dodge wanted to produce a performance to overcome the other car companies. They put “performance” into every aspect of the car from the engine, largest being a 440-cubic inch V8 with almost 400 horsepower, to the color scheme, with the most popular being a vibrant Plum Crazy Purple and HEMI Orange, to the accessories on the car, like shaker hoods and rear wings. The Challenger was changed throughout the production years to adapt to Government regulations and to modernize the design of the car. In 1974, the production of the Challenger was stopped. Since 1969, approximately 189,000 Challengers were sold. The oil crisis of the late 1970’s and early 1980’s made every car company change the way that they were doing things. Dodges answer to this was to import cars with smaller engines to save on fuel economy. Unfortunately, this didn’t last long and dodge was forced to cease production again in 1984. Fast forward to 2006, Dodge unveiled a new concept design for the Challenger. After receiving many pleas for a new Challenger, Dodge started production on the new Challenger in 2008 as the 2009 model. Today’s Dodge

Dodge gave the Challenger 707 Horsepower, the most horsepower a non-supercar production vehicle has. The closest two are the Chevy Camaro RWD ZL1 with 640 horsepower and Fords Shelby GT350R with 663 Horsepower. Dodge uses this to target those adrenaline junkies that have the need for speed. This is one of the key differences that dodge uses to differentiate itself from its competitors. Dodge positions itself in a unique position and can target customers that can afford and enjoy their cars in the market that they have established over the