The Auto Advisor Group: 2011 MOPAR '11

2011 MOPAR '11

BY BRUCE HUBBARD

AUTO ADVISOR GROUP

Chrysler Group revealed its new Mopar '11 Charger at its Mopar Complex today. Powered by the 5.7-liter HEMI® with 370 horsepower and 395 lb.-ft. of torque, the Mopar Charger is loaded with Mopar goodies and includes the "Super Track Pak" option which maximizes acceleration, handling and braking. The car accelerates from 0-60 in the low 5's, is priced at $39,750 and will be available late summer. I understand 1,000 will be built and delivered in not only USA but in Canada.

Chrysler saw the success of the Dodge Challenger limited-edition model sold in 2010.

“The Mopar ‘11 Charger takes the ‘head- turning’ factor up a few notches,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “By adding some of the most distinctive accessories to an already strong performer, we’ve created a special-edition car for enthusiasts.”

Powered by the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® with 370 horsepower and 395 lb.-ft. of torque, the specially equipped Charger includes the “Super Trac Pac” option that pushes the capabilities of the Mopar Charger in acceleration, handling and braking.

The Mopar 11 includes the five-speed W5A580 automatic with the latest generation “Pistol Grip” shifter combined with Auto Stick. With Auto Stick, drivers may select a higher or lower gear while the transmission controller helps prevent the possibility of an over-rev condition. At the rear, the differential has been boosted with a new 3.91:1 final-drive ratio for enhanced acceleration – unique to the Mopar Charger. Initial testing of the Mopar ’11 Charger has shown 0-to-60 mph blasts in the low five-second range.

Enhancements to the chassis include adding larger front 30mm solid stabilizer bar and rear 20mm solid stabilizer bar, increases from 27mm and 16mm (respectively). Adding to the overall stability and handling of the Mopar Charger are cross-car braces located at both the front and rear shock towers. For increased luggage space, the rear tower-to-tower brace may be easily removed.

Specific-design, 20-inch x 8-inch "Envy" wheels are fitted with Goodyear F1 Supercar 245/45ZR20 tires at all four corners. Wheels, painted a high-gloss black, are a five-spoke design with a 45mm offset and include specific Mopar center caps, which complement the overall ”Pitch Black” exterior finish of the Mopar Charger.

In order to stop the powerful Mopar 11 braking is provided through vented rotors measuring 345mm x 28mm up front that are fitted with dual-piston, sliding calipers. At the rear, vented rotors measuring 320mm x 22mm, coupled with single-piston calipers are used.

The Mopar 11 is available only in a “Pitch Black” finish, exterior highlights of the Mopar Charger include a pair of Mopar Blue racing stripes running from the front air dam across the hood and over the roof ending at the bottom of the rear fascia. Ornamentation is limited to a front grille and rear-deck Mopar badge. A rear spoiler is standard on the Charger special-edition model.

Inside Katzkin leather seats are striped and stitched in Mopar Blue thread. The leather-wrapped steering wheel is identically trimmed. Engine-turned instrument bezels and a special identification plaque identifying the vehicle as part of a limited edition of 1,000 are affixed to the instrument panel. Owners also receive a custom Mopar key fob.

Bright pedal covers, premium floor mats with the Mopar logo and front-door sill entry guards featuring the Mopar logo also are included with the package.

The Mopar ’11 Charger will be built in Brampton, Ontario, and completed at an upfit center in Windsor, Ontario. The Manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the limited-edition Mopar ’11 Charger is $39,750, which includes destination fee.

Customers who purchase a Mopar ’11 Charger will receive a personalized owner kit in a customized Mopar ’11 box. The kit will include a certificate with the vehicle identification number (VIN), exact date of manufacture and the number of the vehicle. The kit will also include a brochure that highlights the unique features of the vehicle, exclusive Mopar ’11 merchandise.

Now with the addition to the MOPAR company Maretta Marinelli performance parts and accessories all Chrysler franchises will offer superb options.

When Chrysler bought Dodge in 1928, the need for a dedicated parts manufacturer, supplier and distribution system to support the growing enterprise led to the formation of the Chrysler Motor parts Corporation in 1929.