Dodge Unleashes the Demon 170: The World’s Most Powerful Muscle Car

Dodge has officially introduced what it bills as the quickest, fastest, and unequivocally the Most Powerful Muscle Car ever produced: the 1,025 horsepower 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT® Demon 170. Unveiled during the Dodge Last Call Powered by Roadkill Nights Vegas event at The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, this vehicle represents the seventh and final installment in the brand’s commemorative “Last Call” special-edition series. It aims to set an entirely new benchmark for factory-produced performance, pushing the limits of street-legal capability.

Powered by a staggering production HEMI® engine generating 1,025 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 945 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,200 rpm when running on E85 fuel, the Challenger SRT Demon 170 achieves a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 1.66 seconds. This incredible acceleration produces the highest g-force of any production car at 2.004 gs. Even running on standard E10 gasoline, the Demon 170 commands a formidable 900 horsepower and 810 lb.-ft. of torque. This level of performance solidifies its claim as a contender for the title of the Most Powerful Muscle Car available directly from a manufacturer.

Unprecedented Power: Defining the Demon 170’s Dominance

The 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 isn’t just about raw horsepower; it translates that power into record-shattering speed, making it the quickest vehicle in Dodge’s century-plus history. It holds the distinction of being the first factory production car to complete the quarter-mile in under nine seconds, achieving a National Hot Rod Association (NHRA)-certified time of 8.91 seconds at 151.17 mph. This performance places it in rare territory, leading to an NHRA violation letter for competing without a mandatory safety cage and parachute – a distinction shared with its predecessor, the original 2018 Demon, which faced similar quarter-mile restrictions.

Further emphasizing its singular focus on maximum performance, the Demon 170 eschews the dual-key system of the 2018 model. Owners will only receive red key fobs, as the vehicle intelligently determines its power output based on the detected percentage of ethanol in the fuel, rather than relying on a specific key to unlock its full potential. Black keys, which previously limited horsepower, are effectively banned.

“To celebrate the end of the HEMI muscle-car era, we pulled off all the governors to reach a new level, a new benchmark of ‘factory-crazy’ production car performance,” stated Tim Kuniskis, Dodge brand chief executive officer – Stellantis. “In 2015, Dodge shocked the world with the 707 horsepower Hellcat. Then in 2018 we did it with the 840 horsepower Demon, and now we are doing it again with the 1,025 horsepower Demon 170, the world’s first sustainable-energy, eight-second factory-production, street-legal muscle car.”

The “Last Call” initiative marks the end of the current generation of HEMI®-engine-powered Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger models, concluding at the end of 2023. The Demon 170 stands as the ultimate culmination of this era, following six previously released special editions.

Inside the Beast: The HEMI Engine Reimagined

Achieving over 1,000 horsepower from a factory engine required substantial engineering. The heart of the Demon 170 is a heavily modified version of the 6.2-liter high-output supercharged HEMI engine, with nearly every primary power component upgraded. Only the camshaft remains untouched from its Hellcat Redeye origins. This engine shares significant DNA with the Direct Connection Hellephant C170 crate engine, reinforcing the “170” designation (referencing the 170-proof ethanol fuel required for maximum output).

Supercharger Upgrades

Central to the power increase is a modified 3.0-liter supercharger derived from the Hellephant C170. Key enhancements include:

• A larger snout incorporating a 105mm throttle body (resulting in 33% higher air-flow volume than a Hellcat Redeye).
• A 3.02-inch pulley that increases overdrive by 14% compared to the Redeye.
• These changes result in a 40 percent increase in boost pressure, reaching 21.3psi compared to the Redeye’s 15.3psi, with 30 percent more airflow.

Fuel System Enhancements

Delivering enough fuel for such immense power required significant upgrades:

• High-flow fuel injectors capable of supplying 164 gallons per hour – more than the average U.S. shower head.
• A fast-response ethanol sensor integrated directly into the fuel injector rail to precisely measure fuel composition.

Internal Fortification

To handle the increased stress and ethanol fuel compatibility, the engine’s core components were strengthened:

• Valvetrain: Nitride-coated intake valves and upgraded valve guides and seat materials ensure durability with high-ethanol fuels.
• Cylinder Head/Clamp Load: Aerospace-specification high-strength steel studs with steel inserts integrated into the aluminum cylinder head contribute to a 38 percent increase in clamping load.
• Main Bearing Caps/Clamp Load: Upgraded head and main cap fasteners allow a 44 percent increase in clamping load compared to the Redeye, utilizing aerospace-spec high-strength steel bolts and billet steel main caps.
• Cylinder Pressure: Designed to withstand cylinder pressures 32 percent higher than the Hellcat Redeye Widebody, measuring 2,500psi on E85 fuel.
• Connecting Rods/Bearings: Higher-strength connecting rods, improved pin bushings, and upgraded copper-lead main and rod bearings handle increased combustion pressure and load.
• Block Machining: Modified machining accommodates the upgraded head studs and main bearing cap bolts.
• Crank Damper: A viscous damper helps reduce torsional vibration.
• Spark Plugs: New spark plugs feature a lower heat range suitable for optimal combustion with high-ethanol fuel.

Power is channeled through the proven TorqueFlite 8HP90 eight-speed automatic transmission, which features an updated output flange to accommodate a larger diameter and stronger prop shaft.

Unleashing Full Potential: Ethanol-Fueled Fury

The key to unlocking the Demon 170’s maximum 1,025 horsepower lies in its fuel source. Dubbed the “Corn Demon” in teaser videos, the car’s performance is directly tied to the percentage of ethanol detected. A recalibrated powertrain control module (PCM) continuously optimizes fueling and spark timing based on the fuel blend.

The ethanol percentage is displayed directly on the instrument cluster. When ethanol content exceeds a 20 percent threshold, a white gas pump icon appears. If the system detects more than 65 percent ethanol, the icon turns blue, signaling to the driver that the engine can produce its full, staggering output, cementing its status as arguably the most powerful muscle car reliant on this specific fuel blend for peak performance.

Built to Handle 1025 Horsepower: Driveline and Durability

Managing the extreme forces generated by the Demon 170 required reinforcing the entire driveline. Dodge engineers implemented significant upgrades using aerospace-grade materials and advanced manufacturing techniques:

• Rear Prop Shaft: This component is 30 percent stronger than the one used in the 2018 SRT Demon, featuring increased tube diameter, wall thickness, and larger CV joints, all within the same packaging space.
• 240mm Rear Axle: The rear axle housing is 53 percent stronger, utilizing HIP (Hot Isostatic Pressing) processing for the first time in driveline components to eliminate casting porosity. It incorporates a larger 240mm ring and pinion, a new input flange for a larger CV joint, revised housing geometry (featuring an integrated Direct Connection logo), larger rear cover-mount fasteners, and increased case depth.
• 43-spline Rear Half Shafts: Both inboard and outboard CV joints feature larger inner-connecting splines and revised heat treatment. The interconnecting shaft itself is upgraded to a larger diameter with larger joint splines and optimized stiffness specifically for brutal acceleration performance.

Grip and Go: Pioneering Tire Technology

Putting 1,025 horsepower to the pavement effectively is a monumental challenge. The 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 tackles this as the first-ever factory production car equipped with staggered drag radial tires and purpose-built fender flares. This configuration generates significantly more launch force compared to the already potent Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody.

Dodge collaborated extensively with Mickey Thompson Tires to develop bespoke tire applications crucial for achieving maximum traction under extreme acceleration:

• Rear Tires: Massive 17-inch by 11-inch rear wheels are fitted with Mickey Thompson P315/50R17 ET Street R drag radials. Developed exclusively for the Demon 170, these tires feature added grooves for better on-street usability compared to pure slicks. They use Mickey Thompson’s soft R2 compound for superior grip and a nylon body (instead of standard polyester) for greater power transfer. The taller sidewall allows for a “wrinkle effect,” enhancing traction and reducing tire slip during launch.
• Front Tires: Smaller 18-inch by 8-inch front wheels reduce weight and rolling resistance. They wear Mickey Thompson 245/55R18 ET Street front tires, optimized for drag strip use and helping transfer weight to the rear upon launch.
• Fender Flares: Rear Widebody fender flares accommodate the massive rear drag radials, while the car utilizes standard configuration front fenders, saving 17 pounds compared to a four-corner Widebody setup.

Mastering the Launch: TransBrake 2.0 and Drag Tech

Building on the innovation of the original Demon, the Demon 170 features TransBrake 2.0. This second-generation system includes patent-pending updates allowing drivers to configure and select multiple launch-torque profiles via a dedicated button near the center console. This enables tailoring the engine’s power delivery to match specific track conditions (high, medium, or low grip) – technology commonly used in competitive drag racing.

TransBrake 2.0 allows engine throttle to increase up to 2,350 rpm while stationary, generating maximum torque converter multiplication. This results in up to 110 percent more engine stall torque compared to simply holding the brake, producing up to 15 percent more torque at the rear tires during launch.

TransBrake works synergistically with Torque Reserve, which is automatically enabled during Launch Control and TransBrake use (and also works with foot braking). Torque Reserve pre-positions the supercharger bypass valve and opens the throttle, delivering excess air while controlling torque supply via spark timing adjustments. This ensures faster engine torque response, improved acceleration, and creates a distinctive exhaust note.

Other essential drag racing features return:

• Line Lock: Allows for stationary or rolling burnouts to warm the rear tires by locking the front brakes independently.
• Launch Control: Manages tire slip for maximum straight-line acceleration from a standstill.
• Launch Assist: Reduces wheel hop by optimizing tire contact with the ground during launch.

Balancing Power and Weight

Harnessing immense horsepower requires careful management of vehicle weight and its transfer during acceleration. The Demon 170 employs sophisticated suspension tuning and significant weight reduction measures.

Suspension Tuned for the Strip

Adaptive-damping Bilstein shocks feature uniquely tuned valves providing improved launch response and user-customizable drag race settings:

• The suspension offers a 10mm raised rear ride height and restricts rear jounce travel by 17mm to accommodate the large Mickey Thompson drag radials.
• Revised rear suspension camber increases the tire contact patch under load compared to the Hellcat Redeye Widebody.
• Weight transfer is further optimized through softer springs (35% softer front, 28% softer rear) and softer sway bars (75% softer front, 44% softer rear).
• The updated Drag Mode™ option specifically adjusts shock damping for drag racing: front shocks are set for firm compression and soft rebound, while rear shocks are set for firm compression and firm rebound, maximizing weight transfer to the rear tires.

Significant Weight Reduction

Compared to a Challenger Hellcat Redeye Widebody, the Demon 170 sheds an impressive 157 pounds:

• Optional Carbon Fiber Wheels: A key contributor is the optional Lacks Enterprises two-piece carbon fiber wheels (forged aluminum center, carbon fiber barrel, titanium hardware). The 17×11-inch rear wheels save nearly 12 pounds total, while the 18×8-inch front wheels save over 20 pounds total compared to the standard Redeye Widebody wheels. These reduce unsprung mass, improving handling, acceleration, and braking.
• Other Savings: Weight is also saved through lightweight front brakes, hollow sway bars, standard passenger seat and rear seat delete, removal of trunk trim and NVH pads, lightweight interior carpet, a minimal two-speaker audio system, and the removal of front fender flares (saving 16 pounds).

Keeping Cool Under Pressure

Effective cooling is paramount for sustained performance in a 1,025 horsepower vehicle, especially on the drag strip. The Demon 170 utilizes several advanced cooling strategies:

• SRT Power Chiller™: This innovative system, first seen on the original Demon, diverts the air conditioning system refrigerant to cool the supercharger’s intercooler. This can reduce air induction temperatures by up to 45 degrees Fahrenheit compared to non-chilled systems, ensuring optimal intake air density for maximum power.
• Race Cool Down: This standard feature continues cooling the engine even after shutdown following a drag strip run, helping to manage heat soak.
• Air-Grabber™ Hood & Air Catcher™ Headlamps: The functional hood scoop and illuminated Air Catcher headlamps work together to maximize cool air intake flow to the engine.

The Demon’s Distinctive Look and Feel

The 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 is available in all 14 Challenger exterior colors, including heritage favorites B5 Blue, Plum Crazy purple, and Sublime green, alongside the popular Destroyer Grey. Buyers can opt for a unique Satin Black painted hood or a full Satin Black treatment covering the hood, roof, and decklid.

Exclusive badging sets the Demon 170 apart. The iconic Demon logo is reimagined with a “170” neck tattoo and a new yellow eye, signifying its E85 fuel capability, adorning the front fenders. An SRT badge sits in the grille. Under the hood, a special commemorative “Last Call” plaque is joined by a unique Demon-themed supercharger badge.

Inside, the performance focus continues. A yellow and red Demon instrument panel badge displays the vehicle’s four-digit VIN. The driver faces a unique cluster screen with a red gauge design and Demon 170 graphic. The standard Alcantara performance steering wheel features an LED “SRT” logo, complemented by real carbon fiber bezels.

To maximize weight savings, the standard interior features lightweight houndstooth cloth with the Demon 170 logo on the driver’s seat, passenger seat delete, rear seat delete, trunk carpet delete, sound insulation delete, minimal trunk lighting/dressing, and bright pedal delete, paired with a basic two-speaker audio system.

For those desiring more comfort, a premium leather interior option adds Black Alcantara/Laguna leather seats with the Demon 170 logo, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and an 18-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. A vibrant Demonic Red Laguna leather option is also available. All interior configurations offer the rear seat delete option.

Limited Production and Exclusive Ownership Perks

Production of the 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 is slated to begin in the summer and will be strictly limited to a maximum of 3,300 units (3,000 for the U.S. market and 300 for Canada), with final numbers dependent on production capacity.

Original owners of the 2018 Challenger SRT Demon who secure an allocation for the new 170 model will have the unique opportunity to match the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of their new car to their original Demon.

The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) starts at $96,666 (excluding destination and fees). Interested buyers can view available dealer allocations via the Dodge Horsepower Locator tool on DodgeGarage.com. Ordering commenced on March 27, 2023, and closes on May 15, 2023. Orders placed at MSRP will receive priority scheduling.

Demon 170 ownership comes with exclusive, serialized memorabilia:

• Commemorative Decanter Set: Includes a custom Demon-styled decanter engraved with the owner’s name and VIN, Demon-badged coasters and whiskey cubes, rocks glasses, a Demon 170 supercharger badge cover, and a plate detailing owner name, build number, and VIN.
• Custom Instrument Panel Badge: Ordered by the customer after delivery for added personalization.
• Optional Goodwool Car Shell: A breathable mesh car cover mimicking the vehicle’s appearance, including 3D logos.
• Direct Connection Parts: Optional performance parts include a street wheel/tire package, a harness bar with carbon fiber rear seat delete inserts, and a parachute mounting system.

Acknowledging the extreme capabilities of this purpose-built, street-legal drag car, owners must sign a waiver. Purchase includes a one-day SRT Experience class at Radford Racing School, the official high-performance driving school of Dodge//SRT.

Demon Drive Modes/Performance Pages

Drivers can tailor the Demon 170’s behavior using three primary drive modes: Auto (Street), Custom, and the critical Drag Mode. These modes adjust parameters like transmission shift speed, paddle shifter engagement, traction control, suspension settings, and steering feel.

Selecting Drag Mode optimizes the car for quarter-mile performance:

• Power: Full power enabled based on fuel ethanol content.
• Transmission: Engages the fastest possible shift speeds.
• Paddles: Steering wheel paddle shifters activated.
• Traction: Settings dialed in for drag racing applications.
• Suspension: Promotes maximum weight transfer for optimal launch traction.
• Steering: Delivers the greatest amount of steering feel and effort.

The SRT Performance Pages provide real-time vehicle data, including timers (reaction time, 0-60 mph), gauge information, G-force readings, engine performance stats, and dynamometer horsepower/torque figures. Race Options provide access to drag-specific functions like shift lights, SRT Power Chiller status, Line Lock, Launch Control, and Race Cooldown.

The Final “Last Call”: End of an Era

The 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 serves as the capstone for the “Last Call” series, celebrating the end of the current HEMI-powered Challenger and Charger era. It follows six previous special editions: Dodge Challenger Shakedown, Dodge Charger Super Bee, Dodge Challenger and Charger Scat Pack Swinger, Dodge Charger King Daytona, and Dodge Challenger Black Ghost.

Beyond the special editions, Dodge brought back heritage exterior colors (B5 Blue, Plum Crazy, Sublime Green) and the popular Destroyer Grey for the 2023 model year. Charger and Challenger R/T models receive new “345” fender badging (denoting the 345-cubic-inch HEMI), and all 2023 models feature the commemorative “Last Call” underhood plaque. The Dodge Horsepower Locator tool on DodgeGarage.com remains available to help enthusiasts find remaining models.

In conclusion, the 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 makes a compelling case as the most powerful muscle car ever offered directly from a major manufacturer. With 1,025 horsepower on tap, record-breaking acceleration, and sub-nine-second quarter-mile capability, it represents the absolute pinnacle of factory-built, street-legal drag performance. More than just a car, it’s a statement – the ultimate expression of HEMI power and the final, unforgettable chapter in the current Challenger and Charger saga.