2007 marked the 50th anniversary of an engine that revolutionized not only drag racing, but the entire automotive industry as well: The legendary 392 HEMI®. Mention the word "HEMI" to an automotive enthusiast and little else needs to be said. Or, perhaps a lot more needs to be said depending on your perspective.
"The 392 HEMI is a legend so rich in automotive tradition that hundreds, if not thousands, of books and accounts have been written about its historical significance," said Chris Cortez, senior vice president - Global Service & Parts, Chrysler Group."
The History of the 392 HEMI®
The original 392 HEMI engine was introduced in the new 1957 model year Chryslers and Imperials. It replaced the 354 cubic-inch version of the original HEMI launched in 1951. Compared with the 354, the 392 was completely revised and improved, with larger valves and ports, a beefier block and crankshaft, and improved bearings. In short, the 392 HEMI, often referred to simply as the "92," was perfect for drag racing.
More than a few racers bolted on six or eight carburetors, slipped in a hotter cam, tipped some nitro into the tank and went racing. Racing legend Don Garlits ran a 392 in his Swamp Rat I at record speeds of over 180 mph on nitro with no supercharger. Garlits also used a 392 HEMI to officially break the 200-mph barrier when his Swamp Rat went 201.34 mph at Atco, N.J. in 1964.
Dodge Challenger Super Stock Concept with 392 HEMI® by Mopar
To further commemorate the legacy of the 392, Chrysler Group and Mopar are unveiling a SEMA first: a concept vehicle tricked out just for SEMA. From Detroit's 2006 North American International Auto Show and a year before its production debut, the stunning Dodge Challenger Super Stock with 392 HEMI by Mopar.
"There was really only one vehicle choice to showcase our new crate motor-the bold, powerful and capable, Dodge Challenger," said Cortez.
One of the most iconic muscle cars of the 1970s, it debuted in the fall of 1969 as a 1970 model. Although it was only produced from 1970 to 1974 (188,600 sold), the Dodge Challenger earned a reputation as one of the most desirable of the original "pony cars," with meticulously restored and rare examples today selling for six-figure prices.
The Challenger went racing in its first year and HEMI-powered Challengers tore up the drag strips across the country in the SCCA Trans-am series and NHRA Pro Stock classes. In 1971, a Dodge Challenger paced the Indianapolis 500.
"The HEMI legacy lives on," said Cortez. "But this Dodge Challenger Super Stock concept will no doubt bring that legacy to a whole new generation."
Specifications
" Built by Gaffoglio Family Metalcrafters, Inc., Chrysler LLC Skunkwerks Team, Mopra Performance, UAW Local 412 & MPR Race Cars.
" 392 HEMI®, 525hp, 510 lb./ft. torque, Fuel Injected
" Chrylser A999 Automatic Transmission modified for racing with Turbo Action Shifter
" Modified Dana 60 Solid Rear Axle & Rear Suspension from Dodge Ram SRT10
" Mopar Performance Super Stock Rear Leaf Springs
" Charger SRT8 Front Suspension
" Mark WIlliams Drag Racing Brake Calipers & Rotors
" Goodyear Eagle 15 Drag Racing Tires mounted to American Racing Trakstar Bead Lock Wheels
" Performance Hood Scoop with Fresh Air Ducting, and Front & Rear Spoilers (similar to 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A)
" Unique AEM Exhaust Headers & Collectors
Source Chrysler LLC Press Release - 2006
