The Rise and Fall (and Rise Again) of the Dodge Demon

January 13th, 2023
The Rise and Fall (and Rise Again) of the Dodge Demon

The Dodge Demon is a high-performance variant of the Dodge Dart, which was produced by the Dodge division of the Chrysler Corporation from 1971 to 1972. The Demon was introduced as a response to the growing popularity of compact muscle cars in the early 1970s, and was intended to compete with models such as the Plymouth Duster and the Ford Maverick Grabber.

The Demon featured a range of powerful V8 engines, including the 340 cid and the 383 cid, as well as a number of performance-enhancing options such as a performance suspension, heavy-duty brakes, and a Hurst shifter. The car also featured a distinctive "Demon" logo on the grille and rear panel, as well as a number of other cosmetic enhancements.

Despite its impressive performance capabilities, the Demon struggled to gain a foothold in the market, and was eventually discontinued after just two years of production. Some attribute the lack of success to the "Demon" name and logo, which was criticized by some as being too aggressive and off-putting. Others point to the car's high price tag and lack of marketing efforts as contributing factors.

In 2017, Dodge reintroduced the Demon as a limited-edition model of the Challenger, a two-door muscle car. The new Demon was powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, producing 808 horsepower and 717 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful production cars ever made. The car featured a number of advanced performance technologies, including a unique air-conditioner-delete option and a specially designed engine oil cooler. The car also comes with a set of drag radial tires and lightweight 18-inch wheels, making it a true drag strip machine.

The new Demon also features a number of cosmetic enhancements, including a wide-body kit, a hood scoop, and a "Demon" logo on the grille. However, this model was also produced in limited numbers and was only available for one model year.

Despite its limited production runs, the Dodge Demon has cemented its place in automotive history as a true high-performance machine. Its powerful engines, advanced technology, and distinctive styling have made it a favorite among car enthusiasts and collectors. The Dodge Demon continues to be a highly sought-after vehicle, with used models commanding premium prices on the collector car market.