The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 is not just another high-horsepower muscle car—it’s the ultimate sendoff to Dodge’s gas-powered era. With a jaw-dropping 1,025 horsepower on E85 fuel, this limited-edition beast breaks records while staying street legal. Born for straight-line speed and engineered with drag-strip readiness, the Demon 170 redefines what production performance means in a factory-built car.
Why Consider the Dodge Demon 170?
A Quick Overview
What It Is: A limited-production, drag-focused version of the Dodge Challenger
What’s New: Final “Last Call” special edition with over 1,000 hp on E85
Trims Available: One variant – the SRT Demon 170
Engine: Supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 with ethanol capability
Ideal For: Drag racers, collectors, and muscle car purists
DIY Friendly? Not for most – advanced systems and extreme performance require specialized care
Dodge Demon 170 Highlights
Extreme and Aggressive Styling
The Demon 170 retains the widebody Challenger look but adds new badging, lightweight wheels, and a parachute-ready rear diffuser. Weight savings and grip optimization are baked into every design line.
Pros: Mean, muscular stance that commands attention
Cons: Not subtle—this car screams for attention, literally and visually
Supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 Engine
Producing up to 1,025 hp and 945 lb-ft of torque on E85 fuel (900 hp on premium gas), the Demon 170 features a heavily revised version of Dodge’s already-famous supercharged HEMI.
Pros: Fastest 0–60 mph of any production car (1.66 seconds with rollout)
Cons: Requires E85 fuel for maximum power output
Built for the Drag Strip
The Demon 170 includes a transbrake, launch assist, adaptive suspension, Mickey Thompson drag radials, and no rear seats (optional). The rear axle and driveline are reinforced to withstand brutal launches.
Pros: Professionally tuned for drag racing right from the factory
Cons: Not ideal for daily driving or sharp handling
Limited Production and Collectibility
Only 3,300 units are planned (pending production capacity), making this a highly collectible piece of American muscle car history. Each comes with a commemorative badge and VIN-specific details.
Pros: High resale and collector value
Cons: Extremely limited availability and high price point
Track-Focused Interior and Features
Most interior features are stripped for weight, but buyers can add back comfort elements like leather seats or infotainment. Standard equipment includes performance gauges, data logging, and SRT Drive Modes.
Pros: Focused cabin experience for true enthusiasts
Cons: Not luxury-oriented; basic by design
Common Issues with the Demon 170
Fuel Availability for Peak Performance
To achieve the full 1,025 horsepower, the car must run on E85 ethanol blend fuel, which isn’t available at every gas station.
Fix: Use premium gasoline (only 900 hp) when E85 isn’t available
Not Street Practical
The ride is stiff, road noise is loud, and traction in non-drag conditions (rain, cold roads) can be poor.
Fix: Garage the car for weekend blasts or install a second set of street-friendly tires
High Maintenance Performance Parts
Components like drag radials, brakes, and driveline parts wear faster under extreme conditions.
Fix: Budget for frequent replacements if driven aggressively
Rear Seat Deletion
Rear seats are removed to save weight; buyers must add them back at additional cost if needed.
Fix: Factory option to add rear seat package if passenger capacity is a concern
Limited Dealer Network
Some dealerships may add hefty markups or have difficulty servicing such a specialized vehicle.
Fix: Work with certified SRT dealers and negotiate early
Maintenance and Reliability Outlook
Routine Maintenance Schedule
- Oil Change: Every 3,000–5,000 miles (synthetic mandatory)
- Supercharger Belt: Inspect every 10,000 miles
- Spark Plugs: Replace every 15,000 miles (or after track events)
- Drag Radials: Replace every 2,000–4,000 miles depending on usage
- Brake Pads/Fluids: Inspect and service after every few drag runs
- Transmission Service: Recommended after 20,000 miles or frequent launches
Fuel Economy (Estimated)
- City: 9–11 mpg
- Highway: 15–17 mpg
- Combined: Approx. 12 mpg
Tank Size: 18.5 gallons
Range: 200–250 miles depending on driving conditions and fuel type
Reliability
While the Demon 170 is engineered for punishment, it’s not intended for daily commuting. When treated as a weekend or drag-strip machine, with meticulous maintenance, reliability is strong—but the demands are high.
Pros and Cons of the Dodge Demon 170
Pros:
✔ Most powerful factory-built muscle car ever
✔ Sub-2-second 0–60 mph capability
✔ Built-in drag-race tech like transbrake and line-lock
✔ Limited production = collector value
✔ Reinforced drivetrain built to handle extreme torque
Cons:
✘ Not practical for daily use
✘ Limited power on pump gas
✘ No AWD or rain mode
✘ High maintenance and fuel needs
✘ Expensive and hard to find at MSRP
FAQs
What fuel does the Demon 170 require?
It runs best on E85 ethanol blend (for 1,025 hp) but can also use premium gas (delivers 900 hp).
How fast is the 2024 Demon 170?
0–60 mph in 1.66 seconds with rollout; quarter-mile in 8.91 seconds at 151 mph (NHRA-certified).
Is the Demon 170 street legal?
Yes, it’s completely street legal—but optimized for drag racing.
How many Demon 170s will be made?
Production is limited to 3,300 units—3,000 for the U.S. and 300 for Canada, depending on production capability.
Does the Demon 170 come with a warranty?
Yes, but with limitations—powertrain warranty may not cover race-related damage. Always review coverage before track use.
The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 isn’t just a muscle car—it’s a landmark in American automotive history. Designed to dominate the drag strip while turning heads on the street, it represents the peak of raw, internal-combustion performance before electrification takes over. For collectors and adrenaline junkies alike, the Demon 170 is a rare and exhilarating piece of machinery that won’t come around again.