SEMA 2016: Dodge restomods Challenger with Shakedown concept

The pony car from Dodge has received a resto-mod treatment after the Detroit-based automaker arrived at this year's SEMA show with the Shakedown Challenger concept. Essentially blending the past and the present, the one-off is a 1971 Challenger with modern underpinnings, tech and powertrain.

While still looking very much the same, the unique Challenger actually incorporates a sleeker, more modern finish. Finished in 'Bitchin Black' with red stripe accents, the Shakedown Challenger gets headlights and taillights lifted from the 2017 model. It also gets the new front grill, satin black rear spoiler, chin spoiler and mirror caps, and Mopar 392 logo decals throughout the body.

Further tracing its roots back to the 1970s is the heritage-inspired Shaker Hood. Compared to the original however, the new hood was developed by Mopar and conforms to today's standards. Completing the exterior décor of the Shakedown Challenger are the SRT Hellcat Slingshot wheels. The front axle sits on 19-inch alloys while the rear axle is fitted with 20-inchers.

Inside, the one-off Challenger has Dodge Viper seats upholstered in Katzkin leather with Alcantara inserts. The steering wheel, on the other hand, features red contrast stitching and a custom satin black airbag cover. A bespoke roll cage, rear seat delete and a console shelf was also placed inside to reduce weight and uprate safety.

Under the hood is the familiar 6.4-liter (392 cu in) HEMI V8 that cranks out 491 PS and is mated to a Viper-derived Tremec T6060 six-speed gearbox. It now benefits from a Mopar cold-air intake system along with custom dual exhaust pipes. The front and rear suspensions have been lowered as well to deliver better cornerning and drifting ability in Street or Pro Touring/ Drift type motorsports. Stopping power is provided by Brembo SRT Hellcat six-piston front brakes and four-piston rear brakes.