The 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 is one of the most talked-about modern muscle cars. It marks the final chapter of the Challenger’s long history and represents the end of an era for high-powered, gasoline-driven machines.
The 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 delivers extreme power, hitting 1,025 horsepower with incredible speed, making it the strongest factory Challenger ever built.
In this article, we’ll look at what makes the Demon 170 so special, why it has become a dream car for collectors, and how it performs on the road and on the drag strip. Everything here is written in clear and simple English so anyone can understand it.
What Makes the Demon 170 Special?
The 2023 Demon 170 is not just another Challenger. It is the most powerful and extreme version ever made. Dodge released it as part of its “Last Call” lineup, which includes special editions built to honor the final production year of the current Challenger model.
Here are some reasons people call it a historic car:
- It has over 1,000 horsepower with special fuel
- It is street-legal but built mainly for drag racing
- It has very limited production numbers
- It represents the final big performance push from Dodge before moving toward electric vehicles
- It continues the legacy of the 2018 Demon but takes everything to the next level
Simply put, the Demon 170 is the last great muscle car of its kind.
Engine and Performance
Supercharged HEMI V8
Under the hood, the Demon 170 has a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8. This engine is famous for its deep growl, high boost, and brutal acceleration.
Dodge upgraded many parts compared to previous models: the supercharger, fuel system, pistons, rods, and cooling system were all redesigned for maximum power.
Horsepower and Torque
The most impressive part is the power:
- Up to 1,025 horsepower
- Up to 945 lb-ft of torque
These numbers are achieved when the car runs on E85 fuel. Even with regular high-octane fuel, the car still makes an incredible amount of power.
Acceleration and Quarter Mile
The Demon 170 was designed for straight-line speed, and it shows. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in less than 2.5 seconds under ideal conditions. However, its most shocking number is its quarter-mile time.
The car can complete the quarter mile in around 8.9 seconds during official tests. This makes it one of the quickest factory-built production cars ever.
Why the Name “170”?
The name comes from the 170-proof ethanol blend used in E85 fuel. When the car runs on E85, it delivers its highest horsepower rating.
The fuel system is smart enough to detect how much ethanol is in the tank and adjust the power accordingly. This gives the owner flexibility depending on fuel availability.
2018 Demon vs. 2023 Demon 170
The previous Demon from 2018 was already a monster with 840 horsepower. But the 2023 Demon 170 pushes things further with more power, better traction, and improved tuning. It also features stronger parts to handle the extra stress while racing.
Exterior and Interior Design
Aggressive Exterior
At first glance, the Demon 170 looks like a standard Challenger, but a closer look shows many changes. It has a wider stance, larger hood scoop, and parts built for drag racing.
The front end is designed for airflow, while the wheels help improve grip and acceleration. Some versions come with drag-focused wheels that reduce weight and increase traction.
Interior Built for Speed
Inside, the Demon 170 keeps things simple. The standard model comes with only one seat—the driver’s seat—to save weight. Buyers can add the passenger seat and rear seat if they want them.
Even though the car is built for racing, it still has features like:
- A touchscreen system
- Climate control
- Racing-grade performance pages
- Optional premium sound system
The interior blends daily comfort with race-ready strength.
Price, Availability, and Production Numbers
The original factory price of the Demon 170 started at around $96,000. However, because of limited production and high demand, the actual price paid by most buyers was much higher. Dealers often added large markups, and many people bought them quickly.
Dodge planned to build about 3,300 units in total, with around 3,000 reserved for one region and 300 for another. This small number makes the car rare and increases its value in the market.
Real-World Prices
Because the car is limited and highly desired, used models often sell for much more than the original price. Many listings now show prices well above six figures, sometimes reaching over $200,000 depending on color, mileage, and condition.
Collectors love the Demon 170 because it represents the final version of a legendary muscle car.
Driving Experience
Street Driving
Driving the Demon 170 on normal roads is a wild experience. The car is loud, powerful, and can feel intense if you push the throttle too much.
It can be driven daily, but it’s not meant to be a quiet or gentle commuter car. The suspension and tires feel firmer than regular Challengers, and the engine’s power requires a careful foot.
Many owners say the car feels best when cruising or when showing off its raw muscle at car meets.
Drag Strip Driving
On the drag strip is where the Demon 170 truly shines. It has launch control, special drag radial tires, and a transmission programmed for maximum grip. The supercharger delivers massive boost, and the car shoots forward with incredible force.
Drivers who take the Demon 170 to the track often experience:
- Very fast launches
- Strong grip from the drag tires
- Smooth but powerful gear shifts
- Stable handling at high speed in a straight line
The Demon 170 was built to dominate the drag strip, and few production cars can match its times.
Market Value and Resale Trends
The value of the Demon 170 has been rising since the moment it was announced. Because of its limited production, high performance, and final-edition status, many people see it as a future classic.
Why the Value Is Growing
- Limited supply
- Strong demand from collectors
- End of V8 Dodge Challengers
- Record-breaking performance
- High cultural and historical value
Listings today show that most cars sell far above their original price. Many experts believe that the Demon 170 will continue to increase in value over the next decade, especially if kept in clean condition with low miles.
Competitor Comparison
To understand how strong the Demon 170 is, it helps to compare it with other high-performance cars.
Vs. Ford Mustang GTD
The Mustang GTD is powerful and expensive, but its main focus is track performance, not drag racing. The Demon 170 still wins in straight-line speed.
Vs. Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
The Camaro ZL1 is quick and fun to drive, but it does not come close to the Demon 170’s horsepower or acceleration numbers.
Vs. Tesla Model S Plaid
The Model S Plaid is electric and extremely quick. It can beat many cars off the line, but the Demon 170 still holds its own with its massive horsepower and drag-focused setup. The two appeal to very different types of car lovers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Extreme horsepower and torque
- One of the quickest production cars ever
- Limited production makes it collectible
- Drag-focused engineering
- Strong design and heritage
Cons
- Very expensive on the resale market
- Hard to find
- Not great for daily driving
- High fuel usage
- Designed mainly for straight-line performance
Should You Buy the Demon 170?
The Demon 170 is not a normal car. It is a special machine made for a specific type of person. If you want a rare, powerful, historic muscle car that delivers unmatched acceleration, this car is perfect for you. It offers incredible performance, strong resale value, and a place in automotive history.
However, if you want something comfortable for daily use or long trips, this may not be the right choice. The power can be overwhelming, and it is not designed for quiet driving or fuel savings.
Collectors, muscle-car fans, drag racers, and anyone who wants a piece of the Challenger’s final chapter will find the Demon 170 worth every dollar.
2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 price
The base price for the 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 was listed at about $96,666, not counting destination and gas-guzzler tax.
2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 0-60
This car takes approximately 1.66 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph under ideal conditions, thanks to its high-output supercharged V8 and drag-radial tires.
2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 for sale
Limited numbers were made, and current listings show used models starting around $149,000 or more depending on mileage and condition.
2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 specs
Key specs: 6.2-L supercharged V8, up to 1,025 hp, 945 lb-ft torque, 8-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive.
Dodge Demon 170 price
As one of the most extreme muscle cars ever built, its price started under $100K, but real market value now is well above this.
2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 top speed
Official top speed hasn’t been clearly published—but performance data suggest it is capable of well over 200 mph under ideal conditions.
Dodge Demon 170 top speed
While exact verified figures are limited, the Demon 170 is built for drag-strip dominance and shows potential top speeds exceeding 200 mph with the right setup.
FAQs
How much is the Demon 170 in 2023?
The Demon 170 started around $96,666 in 2023, but most buyers paid much more because of high demand and limited supply.
How much does the Demon 170 cost?
Its original price was under $100,000, but today most Demon 170 cars sell for well over $150,000 depending on condition.
What is the 0-60 time for the Demon 170?
The Demon 170 can hit 0–60 mph in about 1.66 seconds, making it one of the quickest production cars ever built.
Is the Demon 170 faster than a Hellcat?
Yes, the Demon 170 is much faster than a Hellcat, offering far more power, quicker acceleration, and stronger drag-strip performance.
What’s faster, GT500 or Demon?
The Demon 170 is quicker in straight-line racing, while the GT500 is better on tracks. For drag races, the Demon wins easily.
Why is the Dodge Demon illegal?
It isn’t fully illegal. Some tracks ban it without a roll cage because it’s too fast for safety rules, not road-law violations.
Conclusion
The 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 is a powerful farewell to one of the most loved muscle car lines ever made. It delivers extreme speed, massive horsepower, and a raw driving feel that is hard to find today. Its limited production, strong performance, and final-edition status make it special for collectors and muscle-car fans.
Whether you admire it for its history, its record-breaking speed, or its bold design, the Demon 170 stands as one of the last true giants of gasoline muscle cars. It closes the Challenger story with power, personality, and a legacy that will be remembered for many years.