Video: This Dodge Challenger Traded Its Hemi For A Turbo LSX

“Mopar or No Car” is an ancient saying in car enthusiast circles that speaks to the deep dedication Dodge musclecar enthusiasts have for their brand. Though Chrysler (now Fiat-Chrysler) has forever been the third-place finisher when it comes to overall sales, the Hemi engine helped solidify its place at the front of the performance car pack.

turbo-challenger-2

But not every Dodge fan loves the Hemi as it turns out, including Jamie Hochbaum, who brought a wrecked 2010 Challenger back to life through the necromancy of a turbocharged, 427-cubic inch LSX motor. This streetable monster even tows its own drag tires, a testament to the versatility of this heretical build.

So why go for a LSX engine over a simple Hemi swap? Could be Jamie just wanted something different, or it could be the gigantic Precision Turbo 106mm turbocharger taking up a tremendous amount of space under the hood. We couldn’t find exact power figures beyond “1000+ horsepower”, which is more than enough to motivate the 4,100 pound muscle car deep into the 8-second range. The interior is mostly intact too, though a rollcage and racing seats (as well as a parachute brake) were deemed necessary for safe racing.

turbo-challenger-1

Did we mention it’s streetable?

Backing the controversial engine swap is a three-speed automatic transmission for quick and effortless shifting. By the end of Drag Week, Jamie’s Challenger managed its best time yet, an 8.19 at 162.72 MPH, an absolutely incredible time given just how much this car weighs, and it is perfectly street legal. As to whether or not a LSX swap is a good idea, we leave that up to you to decide, but you can’t really argue with the results.

About the author

Chris Demorro

Christopher DeMorro is a freelance writer and journalist from Connecticut with two passions in life; writing and anything with an engine.
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