2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon: Price & Review

by Jhon Lennon 48 views

Let's dive into the monstrous world of the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon! This beast isn't just a car; it's a statement. We're talking about a machine engineered for one purpose: absolute domination on the drag strip. But before you start dreaming of tearing up the asphalt, let's talk about the price and what makes this Demon so devilishly special.

What Made the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon Special?

Okay, guys, picture this: a factory-built drag racer. That's the Demon in a nutshell. Dodge didn't just tweak a Challenger and slap a Demon badge on it; they went all-out. Under the hood lurks a hand-built, supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 that cranks out a mind-boggling 840 horsepower and 770 lb-ft of torque when running on 100-octane fuel. Yeah, you read that right. 840 horses! That's enough to make your grandma do a wheelie (though we wouldn't recommend it).

But the power is only part of the story. The Demon also boasts a ton of drag-racing-specific hardware. We're talking about things like:

  • TransBrake: This locks the transmission output shaft to allow for higher engine rpm at launch, resulting in brutal acceleration.
  • Torque Reserve: This system closes the bypass valve on the supercharger and manages fuel flow to build boost pressure at launch, giving you an even harder hit off the line.
  • Drag Mode Suspension: This optimizes the suspension for drag racing, shifting weight to the rear wheels for maximum traction.
  • Nitto NT05R Drag Radials: These sticky tires are designed to hook up on the drag strip, providing incredible grip.
  • Air-Grabber Hood: This massive hood scoop feeds cold air directly into the engine, improving performance.
  • Available Demon Crate: This optional crate included narrow front runner wheels, performance powertrain control module, and other goodies to further enhance the Demon's drag-racing capabilities.

All these features combined to make the Demon the quickest production car in the world at the time of its release, capable of running the quarter-mile in a blistering 9.65 seconds at 140 mph. That's insane! It was even banned by the NHRA for being too fast without a roll cage.

The Demon wasn't just about straight-line speed, though. It also had a unique interior. The standard configuration came with only a driver's seat to save weight, but you could add the front passenger seat and rear seat back for a dollar each. Talk about a bargain! This minimalist approach further emphasized the Demon's focus on performance. Let's not forget the unique Demon badging and styling cues that set it apart from other Challengers.

The Original 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon Price Tag

So, how much did this beast cost back in 2018? The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon started at around $84,995, including destination charges. Now, that's not exactly cheap, but considering the level of performance and exclusivity you were getting, it was actually a pretty good deal. Especially when you consider that some dealerships were marking them up way beyond that price, due to the limited production and high demand.

Keep in mind that the final price could vary depending on the options you chose. Adding things like the front passenger seat, rear seat, premium audio system, and other features would obviously increase the price. But even with all the options, the Demon was still a relative bargain compared to other high-performance cars with similar levels of performance.

What's the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon Price Today?

Alright, let's get to the million-dollar question: what's a 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon worth today? Well, like any limited-production car, the Demon's value has fluctuated over the years. But generally speaking, they've held their value pretty well, and in some cases, even appreciated.

As of today, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100,000 to $150,000+ for a used Demon, depending on its condition, mileage, and options. Low-mileage examples in pristine condition can easily fetch prices well above the original MSRP. Some have even sold for over $200,000 at auction! Several factors influence the price:

  • Mileage: Lower mileage Demons command a higher price, as they indicate less wear and tear.
  • Condition: Pristine, well-maintained Demons are worth more than those with cosmetic or mechanical issues.
  • Options: Demons with desirable options, such as the Demon Crate and leather seats, tend to be more valuable.
  • Rarity: Certain colors and configurations are rarer than others, which can also affect the price.
  • Market Demand: The demand for Demons can fluctuate over time, impacting prices. Right now the demand is still high.

If you're thinking about buying a Demon, be prepared to do your research and shop around. Look for well-documented examples with a clean history. It's also a good idea to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to ensure that the car is in good condition.

Is the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon Worth the Price?

That's a tough question, and it really depends on your individual circumstances and priorities. If you're a serious drag racer or a collector looking for a rare and iconic muscle car, then the Demon could definitely be worth the price. It's a truly unique and special machine that offers unparalleled performance and exclusivity. However, if you're simply looking for a fun and fast street car, there are other options out there that might be a better value for your money. The Hellcat is a great alternative.

Here are some things to consider when deciding whether or not the Demon is worth the price:

  • Your Budget: Can you comfortably afford to buy and maintain a Demon? Keep in mind that insurance, fuel, and maintenance costs can be significantly higher than those of a regular car.
  • Your Intended Use: How do you plan to use the car? If you're only going to drive it on the street, you might not be able to fully appreciate its capabilities.
  • Your Passion for Muscle Cars: Are you a true muscle car enthusiast who appreciates the Demon's history and heritage? If so, you might be more willing to pay a premium for it.
  • Alternatives: Have you considered other high-performance cars that might offer similar levels of performance at a lower price? The Challenger Hellcat, for example, is a formidable machine in its own right.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not the Demon is worth the price is a personal one. There's no right or wrong answer. Weigh your options carefully and make the decision that's best for you.

Alternatives to the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon

Okay, so maybe the Demon is a bit out of your price range, or perhaps you're just looking for something a little different. No worries! There are plenty of other awesome muscle cars out there that offer similar levels of performance and excitement. Here are a few alternatives to the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon:

  • Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat: The Hellcat is the Demon's slightly tamer sibling, but don't let that fool you. With its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 producing 707 horsepower (or more in later models), the Hellcat is still a formidable machine. It's also more readily available and more affordable than the Demon.
  • Ford Mustang Shelby GT500: The Shelby GT500 is Ford's answer to the Demon and Hellcat. With its supercharged 5.2-liter V8 cranking out 760 horsepower, the GT500 is a serious track weapon. It also boasts impressive handling and braking capabilities, making it a well-rounded performance car.
  • Chevrolet Camaro ZL1: The Camaro ZL1 is another excellent alternative to the Demon. With its supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing 650 horsepower, the ZL1 offers blistering acceleration and impressive handling. It's also available with a manual transmission, which is a plus for some enthusiasts.
  • Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat: If you need more practicality, the Charger Hellcat is a great option. It offers the same ferocious performance as the Challenger Hellcat but with four doors and a spacious interior.
  • Tesla Model S Plaid: If you're looking for something completely different, the Tesla Model S Plaid is worth considering. With its electric powertrain producing over 1,000 horsepower, the Model S Plaid offers mind-bending acceleration. It's also incredibly technologically advanced and surprisingly practical.

Each of these cars offers its own unique blend of performance, style, and features. Do your research and test drive a few to see which one is the best fit for you.

Final Thoughts

The 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is a true icon of American muscle. It's a raw, visceral machine that offers an unparalleled driving experience. Whether you're a serious drag racer, a collector, or simply a muscle car enthusiast, the Demon is sure to impress. While the price may be steep, the Demon's rarity, performance, and sheer audacity make it a truly special car. If you have the means and the passion, it's definitely worth considering. But if not, there are plenty of other awesome muscle cars out there that can provide similar levels of excitement and enjoyment. Just get out there and enjoy the ride! Keep in mind that information is subject to change.