2009 Dodge Challenger's are on the Road

[Ivan]

I love the look of the new Challenger, but a car like that should NEVER be offered with an auto option.

TSC.

Americans cant drive manuals... ok most of them

Main reason why the hummer has an auto gearbox (something you absolutely DONT want to have on a 4x4) is that the increased fuel costs were less than the work hours fixing wrecked manual gearboxes

[RichieB16]

Americans cant drive manuals... ok most of them

Well, I wouldn't say that.  I prefer a manual in a performance car...but that's me.  I think part of it is the type of driving that is done in America.  Most of the roads here are very straight, most racing that is done is drag racing.  Generally, an automatic transmission is better for drag racing.  Its true that they get lousy mileage and they aren't as fun to drive...but that's the way it is.  Plus, most performance cars up here tend to be more "deluxe" models and therefore people want an auto because it is typically a more luxury option.  So, an example of what is common here was how the 4th generation Camaro was set up (1993-2002), I pick the Camaro because its what I know the best.  For the standard V6 models (not much performance), they came standard with a 5-speed manual and the automatic was an option (which cost at least an extra $1500).  For the V8 models (the more "deluxe" version as well as the performance version) came with the auto standard and there was a 6-speed no cost option.

Now, me personally...I wouldn't buy one unless it was a manual.  I have a 2002 Camaro SS with a 6-speed.  I just prefer them.  The main reason I like them is there is no slip in the drive train because the transmission is 100% engaged to the engine (unlike an automatic which can free spool thanks to a torque converter).  Plus, its more fun and saves a lot on gas.

[Mushroom_Farmer]

Now that I think about it, the majority of vehicles I own have manual transmissions.

'62 Pontiac Catalina: 3 spd Automatic
'72 Triumph GTS: 4spd Manual
'75 Chevrolet C-10 Pickup: 4 spd Manual
'89 Mercury Cougar LS: 4 spd Automatic
'98 Mercury Cougar SC: 5 spd manual

Formerly owned '86 Mustang GT: 5 spd Manual

And this thing:

[Ravang]

This is just me, but the interior looks like 9 acres of the same color grey,  very boring. But its hard to say anything without driving it.

[JLangholzJ]

And this thing:

thats one hell of a thing!! very nice man.

[JLangholzJ]

Mustang and Viper. This model has done nothing to improve my thoughts.

ah.... a man after my own heart:






P.S.  yes this is my car!

[Mushroom_Farmer]

I guess we can forget ever seeing a new 'Cuda or Roadrunner, huh? :-/

[Willit Run]

Mustang and Viper. This model has done nothing to improve my thoughts.

ah.... a man after my own heart:


P.S.