2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon: Engine Specs & Review

by Jhon Lennon 55 views

Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the heart of the beast – the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon and its mind-blowing engine. If you're a gearhead like me, you're probably already drooling over the specs. This machine isn't just a car; it's a statement. Let's explore what makes the Demon's engine so special, covering everything from its raw power to its innovative features. Buckle up; this is going to be one wild ride!

The Heart of the Demon: 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8

The 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is powered by a monstrous 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 engine. This isn't your everyday V8; it's been meticulously crafted to deliver unparalleled performance. The engine churns out an astounding 840 horsepower and 770 lb-ft of torque when running on 100-octane fuel. Yes, you heard that right – 840 horses! Even on regular high-octane fuel, it still manages a respectable 808 horsepower. This sheer power is what allows the Demon to achieve its legendary quarter-mile time, making it one of the quickest production cars ever made.

To achieve this level of performance, Dodge engineers implemented several key upgrades compared to the Hellcat engine. The Demon's engine features a larger 2.7-liter supercharger, up from the Hellcat's 2.4-liter unit. This larger supercharger provides increased boost pressure, forcing more air into the engine and resulting in more power. The engine also includes strengthened connecting rods and pistons, allowing it to withstand the immense forces generated during high-performance driving. Furthermore, the fuel system was upgraded to handle the increased fuel demand, ensuring the engine never starves for fuel, even under the most demanding conditions.

The engine also boasts an innovative air-grabber hood scoop, the largest functional hood scoop ever installed on a production car. This scoop feeds cool air directly into the engine, improving performance and reducing intake temperatures. The Demon also features a unique torque reserve system, which preloads the supercharger and optimizes the engine for maximum launch performance. This system allows the Demon to launch incredibly hard, transferring weight to the rear wheels and maximizing traction. The result is a car that can rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.3 seconds, a feat that was previously unheard of for a production vehicle.

The Demon's engine isn't just about raw power; it's also about advanced technology. The engine features an advanced engine management system that constantly monitors and adjusts various parameters to optimize performance and efficiency. This system takes into account factors such as air temperature, fuel quality, and throttle position to ensure the engine is always running at its peak potential. The result is an engine that is both incredibly powerful and surprisingly refined, making the Demon a true marvel of engineering.

Key Engine Specs and Features

Let’s break down the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon's engine specs and features into a more digestible format:

  • Engine Type: 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8
  • Horsepower: 840 hp (on 100-octane fuel), 808 hp (on high-octane fuel)
  • Torque: 770 lb-ft
  • Supercharger: 2.7-liter
  • Boost Pressure: 14.5 psi
  • Redline: 6,500 rpm
  • Air Intake: Air-Grabber Hood Scoop
  • Fuel System: High-flow fuel injectors and pump
  • Pistons: Forged alloy pistons
  • Connecting Rods: Forged steel connecting rods
  • Crankshaft: High-strength steel crankshaft
  • Cooling System: Upgraded cooling system to handle increased heat
  • Exhaust System: Performance exhaust system with electronic exhaust valves

These features combine to make the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon engine a true masterpiece of engineering. The robust construction ensures durability, while the advanced technology maximizes performance and efficiency. The result is an engine that is both incredibly powerful and surprisingly reliable, making the Demon a true icon in the world of high-performance vehicles.

Upgrades and Innovations

The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon didn't just inherit an engine; it received a meticulously crafted powerhouse with significant upgrades. Let’s explore some of the most notable improvements:

Larger Supercharger

The supercharger is at the heart of the Demon's power output. The 2.7-liter supercharger is significantly larger than the one found in the Hellcat. This increase in size allows for a greater volume of air to be forced into the engine, resulting in a higher boost pressure of 14.5 psi. The increased boost pressure leads to a substantial increase in horsepower and torque, making the Demon incredibly powerful.

Strengthened Internals

To handle the increased power, the Demon's engine features strengthened internal components. The forged alloy pistons and forged steel connecting rods are designed to withstand the immense forces generated during high-performance driving. These upgraded components ensure the engine's durability and reliability, even under the most demanding conditions.

Upgraded Fuel System

The Demon's engine requires a substantial amount of fuel to produce its prodigious power output. To meet this demand, the fuel system was upgraded with high-flow fuel injectors and a high-flow fuel pump. These components ensure the engine never starves for fuel, even when running on 100-octane fuel and operating at its maximum potential.

Air-Grabber Hood Scoop

The Air-Grabber hood scoop is one of the most distinctive features of the Demon. This functional hood scoop is the largest ever installed on a production car and feeds cool air directly into the engine. The cool air improves performance by reducing intake temperatures and increasing the density of the air entering the engine. This results in a more efficient combustion process and increased power output.

Torque Reserve System

The Torque Reserve system is a unique feature that preloads the supercharger and optimizes the engine for maximum launch performance. This system closes the bypass valve, pre-filling the supercharger with boost, and manages fuel flow and spark timing to minimize torque at launch. When the driver releases the brake, the full force of the engine is unleashed, resulting in an incredibly hard launch.

TransBrake

Another innovative feature of the Demon is the TransBrake. This system allows the driver to lock the transmission output shaft, enabling them to build up engine RPM before launching the car. When the TransBrake is released, the full power of the engine is instantly transferred to the wheels, resulting in an explosive launch. The TransBrake is a valuable tool for drag racing, as it allows the driver to achieve consistent and repeatable launch times.

Performance and Quarter-Mile Times

All these upgrades culminate in mind-blowing performance figures. The 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.3 seconds and completing the quarter-mile in a blistering 9.65 seconds at 140 mph. These figures make the Demon one of the quickest production cars ever made. The Demon's performance is so impressive that it was initially banned by the NHRA (National Hot Rod Association) for being too fast without a roll cage.

To put these numbers into perspective, consider that most high-performance sports cars take around 3 to 4 seconds to reach 60 mph and run the quarter-mile in the low 11-second range. The Demon's ability to obliterate these times is a testament to the engineering prowess that went into its development. The Demon isn't just fast; it's in a league of its own.

The Demon's incredible performance isn't just about raw power; it's also about advanced technology and meticulous engineering. The car's suspension, tires, and aerodynamics were all carefully optimized to maximize traction and minimize drag. The result is a car that is not only incredibly fast in a straight line but also surprisingly capable on a race track.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon offers an unparalleled driving experience. The raw power of the engine is immediately apparent, and the car accelerates with breathtaking force. The sound of the supercharger whine and the exhaust roar combine to create an intoxicating symphony that is sure to thrill any gearhead. The Demon is a car that demands respect, and it rewards skilled drivers with an experience that is both exhilarating and unforgettable.

Despite its focus on performance, the Demon is also surprisingly comfortable to drive. The suspension is firm but not harsh, and the seats are supportive and well-cushioned. The interior is well-appointed and features a variety of amenities, including a premium sound system and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Demon is a car that can be driven every day, but it truly shines on the drag strip.

Owning a Demon is more than just owning a car; it's about being part of a community. The Demon was a limited-production vehicle, and only 3,300 were ever made (3,000 for the U.S. and 300 for Canada). This exclusivity has created a strong sense of camaraderie among Demon owners, who often gather at events and share their experiences. Owning a Demon is like being part of a special club, and it's an experience that is truly unique.

Is the Demon a Good Investment?

Given its limited production and legendary status, the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon has become a highly sought-after collector's item. Prices for the Demon have steadily increased since its release, and well-preserved examples can command a significant premium over their original MSRP. If you're considering purchasing a Demon as an investment, it's essential to do your research and find a well-maintained example with low mileage. With proper care and maintenance, the Demon is likely to continue to appreciate in value over time.

Even if you're not planning on selling your Demon anytime soon, it's still a good idea to keep it in excellent condition. Regular maintenance, proper storage, and careful driving habits can all help to preserve the value of your Demon. Additionally, keeping your Demon original can also increase its value. Avoiding modifications and preserving the factory-original components can make your Demon more desirable to collectors in the future.

Final Thoughts

The 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is more than just a car; it's a legend. Its monstrous engine, innovative features, and mind-blowing performance have cemented its place in automotive history. Whether you're a gearhead, a collector, or simply someone who appreciates incredible engineering, the Demon is a car that is sure to impress. If you ever get the chance to experience the Demon firsthand, don't pass it up – it's an experience you'll never forget. This car isn't just fast; it's a statement. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when engineers push the boundaries of what’s possible. The Demon will forever be remembered as one of the most iconic and outrageous muscle cars ever created. And that, my friends, is why we’re all so fascinated by it!