2009 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic

Almost as if there wasn't a world-wide economic crisis going on, Dodge introduced a special edition of their lovably anachronistic Challenger sports coupe at Detroit.  While it amounts to little more than a tape and stickers special, anything in today's market that debuts with a huge powerful V8 and good looks should be embraced - next year it might have a dang Hybrid Drive or something silly.

The Classic is a retro-throwback package for the mid-level Challenger R/T, which is powered by Chrysler's glorious 5.7L 16v V8.  With the six-speed manual, the engine makes 376 horsepower and 410lb-ft of torque, made more effective by a shorter 3.92 final drive ratio and a limited slip so it will liquify both tires equally.

The Classic also gets a low-restriction exhaust so everyone knows that "Yeah, it's got a Hemi."  (I had to, sorry.)  According to the Dodge press release, it has "Low Restriction Bottle Resonators for optimum throatiness." Seriously, the press release has the words "Optimum Throatiness" in it.  I suppose it's a slow news day.

The R/T Classic sports polished 20" alloy wheels (basically Torq-Thrust knockoffs, which are quite popular these days) as well as some mean matte-black body stripes with the signature "R/T" logo.  The front gets a retro egg-crate grille, while around back a body-color spoiler and chromed gas cap round out the bling.

Dodge is taking orders for the R/T Classic now, which starts at a reasonable $34,500 (that's £23,500 to you all.)  Considering the amount of power and flash you get, that's pretty reasonable.  Of course, the Challenger still has a weight problem - really, a 2+2 sports coupe that weighs 2 tons?  But it looks so good, you hardly care.