2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8

© Dale Wickell

The 2009 Challenger SRT8 is being built in three colors. The retro design takes us back to the 1970 Challenger, but with an updated powertrain and amenities that people expect in the twenty-first century.

The Chrysler Group took several months to build up to its Challenger introduction. A Challenger prototype and the purchase rights for the first production car were auctioned at the January, 2008, Barrett-Jackson Auction in Arizona. Another Challenger will be auctioned on eBay -- the number 43 production vehicle to honor the Richard Petty. It will include some special "Petty" items and proceeds from the sale will be donated to charity.

Update: The number 43 Challenger sold for $228,143.43. Richard Martin of Delaplane, Virginia, placed the winning bid.

Aaron has full Challenger coverage over on About.com Cars.