Blogs, car sites, and auto shows have been hyping up the concept Dodge Challenger to the point where you would think the auto is almost ready to roll off of a DCX assembly line. To say that the prototype is being well received is an understatement — quite frankly if the Challenger was available for sale today the list would be many months long. Such is the demand for a retro car that takes its styling cues right from the ‘71 Challenger.

As it currently stands, the vehicle will be built as DaimlerChrysler has given its blessing to the new Challenger. Still, the Challenger is more than three years from being made as it is certain to be released a little time during 2009 as a 2010 model. Yes, the wait will be hard for most but if the hype equals the performance, then the wait will certainly be worth your while.

Some people are against the whole retro car revolution. Citing that Detroit must reach back in time to make relevant cars is a sworn statement to the each automaker’s woes. On the contrary, I believe the various revived models currently being planned or already on our streets is a clear affidavit to Detroit eventually listening to its customers: we want cars that are uniquely styled and we want them to perform precisely the way you may say they’ll perform. No fake hood scoops, no heralded model name slapped on a vehicle that pales in comparison to the original. No, we do not need you to build the original model we want you to build the original model better. Take the styling cues and run with them and incorporate modern technology to boost on the original design. That is all we ask.

So, just what can enthusiasts expect when they take delivery of their Challenger? Well, like I claimed the automobile is still in the planning stages, but what I have gleaned from assorted sites is the following information:

Modified Platform — If you like the Mercedes based LX platform now used to run the Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum, and Dodge Charger then the LY platform will suit you too. DCX is intending to tweak the LX platform for its next generation of automobiles and the LY based Challenger will be one of many vehicles built upon it. Some have advised the LY will be the LX on steroids, whatever that means.

Did Someone Say Hemi? — Each Mopar product of significance will have optional Hemi power and the Challenger is not an exception. Expect a V6 to be standard with the optional Hemi V8 for performance versions of the auto. Some have suggested the the 425 h.p. SRT 6.1L V8 will also be supplied for the Challenger.

Ragtop Regalia — Chrysler claims the Sebring will be its only convertible offering, but that leaves Dodge dealers without a soft top car to market [other than the Snake , of course]. Regardless of this bit of info, look for a Challenger convertible to turn up one or 2 years after the automobile’s debut. Heck, if DCX does not want to build one then OEM coach builders will do the job for them. You can bet that Dodge dealers will make these agreements if DCX doesn’t.

Yes, the Challenger will not be in new automobile showrooms any time soon. For those of us waiting with “baited breath” we must console ourselves with the many blogs, sites, and vehicle shows hyping the car. Apart from that, imagine your glossy new Challenger stopped at a traffic light with a Mustang on one side and a Camaro on the other side….

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