Dodge Magnum SRT 8, 2003 Magnum SRT 8 Pictures, News, Reviews, and Info | Conceptcarz.com - Pictures, Wallpaper, Pricing, Information, History

Overview

Image credits: Dodge

THE NEW MUSCLE

It's been more than 30 years since Dodge ruled the streets with HEMI® power and rear-wheel-drive performance. Dodge has unleashed that power in an all-new proportion with the introduction of its 2003 Dodge Magnum SRT-8 concept vehicle.

"Dodge Magnum is the new shape of American muscle," said Dieter Zetsche, President and CEO of the Chrysler Group. "With its innovative packaging, performance and utility, there's nothing else like it. While Chrysler Pacifica is the premium sports tourer, Dodge Magnum is the performance sports tourer that packs a powerful punch and the functionality of an all-wheel drive sport utility. Armed with a HEMI inside and rear-wheel-drive, Dodge Magnum delivers power in a package that offers unmatched flexibility and versatility."

While the Dodge Magnum SRT-8 is a concept vehicle, it provides a strong hint at the first version of Chrysler Group's much-anticipated next-generation of rear-wheel drive "LX" vehicles. A production version similar to the Dodge Magnum SRT-8 concept vehicle will go on sale in 2004 under the Magnum name.

SUPERCHARGED HEMI - a new era

The legendary HEMI engine that powered Dodge's muscle cars of the 1960s has been re-engineered and reborn. The Dodge Magnum SRT-8 concept vehicle features a supercharged version of the 5.7-liter HEMI. While the normally-aspirated 5.7-liter HEMI now used in the Dodge Ram churns out 345 horsepower and 375 lb.-ft. of torque, the addition of the Whipple supercharger pumps up the 5.7-liter HEMI to an estimated 430 horsepower and 480 lb.-ft. of torque. This provides heart-stopping acceleration, with the unique combination of maximum power at low rpms for driveability and ultra-high efficiency for top-end horsepower. Just squeeze the throttle and the engine will respond immediately, from idle to redline.

REAR-WHEEL-DRIVE PERFORMANCE

Dodge brings back rear-wheel-drive to transfer all this power to the pavement through an all-new independent five-bar rear-drive layout. The Magnum powertrain and suspension system work together for a precise balance of performance and handling, making optimum use of all four tire contact patches. For ultimate power distribution, an all-wheel drive version of the production Dodge Magnum also will be available.

Technologies such as electronic stability control, traction control and anti-lock brake systems also have reached new levels of advancement to control rear-drive cars to the point where such systems are transparent to the driver. Tire technology utilizing silica sand further enhances traction in all weather conditions.

CONTAGIOUS TECHNOLOGY

Although Chrysler Group had already decided before the merger that the next generation of premium vehicles would be rear-wheel-drive; the 1998 merger with Daimler Benz has afforded Chrysler Group a great portfolio of technology and components. For example, Mercedes is the leader in stability control systems, and spreading that technology across a higher volume will result in reduced per unit costs and high quality at the same time. The production version of the Dodge Magnum SRT-8 will use adapted Mercedes components, including the five-speed automatic transmission, steering and front suspension system, seat structures and electronic architecture. Additionally, Dodge Magnum will use five-link rear suspension architecture based on adapted Mercedes-Benz technology.

COMING SOON

"In terms of performance, design and function, the Dodge Magnum SRT-8 concept will leave its mark as one of the coolest vehicles on the road," said Zetsche. "It is aimed squarely at the next wave of automotive enthusiasts looking for passionate performance, an all-new proportion and a vehicle you can use for just about anything."

Additional features include:

- Electronically-controlled five-speed automatic
- transmission with AutoStick®
- Dual exhaust
- Navigation system
- Racing-style milled aluminum pedals with Dodge
- Viper hole pattern
- "Extreme access" liftgate
- Cargo volume of 27.0 cu.ft.
- Traction control
- Electronic stability control
- Navigation radio with integrated six-disc CD changer

Source - Dodge Media

Its been more than 30 years since Dodge ruled the streets with HEMI® power and rear-wheel-drive performance. Dodge has unleashed that power in an all-new proportion with the introduction of its 2003 Dodge Magnum SRT-8 concept vehicle.

Source -

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