Thursday, March 12, 2009



So, my car buddy at work test drove an SRT-4. I have eyed these cars since they came out new in 2003. They won Sport Compact Car Magazine Car of the Year. Here's some basic info snagged from modernracer.com:

"The 2003 original's horsepower and torque figures were grossly underrated. While rated at 215 hp, the actual figure is closer to 250 hp. For 2004, the engine has been rerated at 230 hp, which is probably still conservative. The original did not have an LSD to take advantage of all this front-wheel power, but it is now offered as a Mopar aftermarket accessory by Dodge themselves. The 2004 SRT-4 features a new torque-sensing limited-slip differential as standard equipment. Developed in conjunction with performance specialists Quaife, this feature provides more traction when accelerating out of the corners or anytime the throttle is floored. The torque curve peaks at only 2200 rpm and remains flat well into the rev range, while maximum boost, variable between 11 psi and 14 psi depending on weather condtions, comes on fairly quickly.
Dodge's own Mopar Performance has been offering several "stages" of performance upgrades for those who want to push their cars to the brink. The $399 Stage 1 turbo upgrade kit pushes the SRT-4's 2.4-liter turbocharged engine to an underrated 240 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. Next in the catalog is the Mopar Performance turbo blow-off valve, designed to prevent both premature boost leakage and compressor surge. The $1500 Stage 2 turbo kit boosts the engine up to 280 hp and 300 lb-ft in "high-octane" mode, while the Stage 3 raises the bar up to 355 hp and 365 lb-ft, costing you between $2700 to $3700 depending on what upgrades you've already installed. Other catalog parts include a short shifter and gauges, among other things.
New BF Goodrich KDW2 three-season tires also are standard equipment on the SRT-4. Other new features include a sunroof and side airbags as options. Blue paint replaces yellow for the 2004 color palette, which includes red, black and silver. Orange paint has been added for 2005."

The car I drove was an '04 red Stage 2 car with 45k miles on it. It appeared to only have a set of lowering springs (yellow in color), otherwise stock. I really liked the seats. Hunkered down and swallow you up. The bov was loud. I guess it was stock. The yummy burble when down shifting. Great torque. I didn't get on it, but once to get on the freeway (about 70% on it). They are asking $9985 or something like that. It is a Theft recovery with a rebuilt title. I'd totally dig this car. Not bad on the price and miles and power. Great combo! Just needs a better set of wheels. 205/50/17's on 17x6 wheels don't cover it. Doh!

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