The 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 is more than the final chapter for the gas-powered muscle car; it’s a 1,025-horsepower mic drop that shatters records and redefines street-legal performance. But beyond the staggering numbers and drag-strip hype lies a complex machine with real-world costs and hidden limitations. This is the unfiltered owner’s guide, designed to take you past the press release and into the driver’s seat, covering everything from its engineering secrets to its true running costs.
What is the Dodge Demon 170? The Last Call for 1,025 Horsepower
The Dodge Demon 170 is the seventh and final “Last Call” special edition, a series commemorating the end of the V8-powered Challenger and Charger era[1]. Conceived as a street-legal drag car, it was engineered to be the most powerful muscle car ever produced directly from the factory[2]. Its name, “170,” is a nod to the 170-proof rating of E85 ethanol fuel, the key to unlocking its mind-bending power[3]. Production was strictly limited to 3,300 units, with 3,000 allocated for the U.S. market and 300 for Canada, instantly cementing its status as a rare and highly sought-after collectible[1].
Dodge Demon 170 Specs & Key Features
The Demon 170’s spec sheet reads less like a car’s and more like a rocket’s. Every component was re-evaluated and strengthened to handle forces previously unheard of in a production vehicle. For a deeper look at the engineering, visit Dodge’s Official Demon 170 Hub.
| Specification | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Supercharged 6.2L HEMI® V8 | [4] |
| Horsepower (E85) | 1,025 HP @ 6,500 RPM | [4] |
| Torque (E85) | 945 lb-ft @ 4,200 RPM | [4] |
| Horsepower (91 Octane) | 900 HP | [4] |
| Torque (91 Octane) | 810 lb-ft | [4] |
| 0-60 MPH | 1.66 seconds | [4] |
| Quarter-Mile | 8.91 seconds @ 151.17 MPH (NHRA Certified) | [4] |
| Peak G-Force | 2.004 Gs | [4] |
| Supercharger | 3.0L IHI Supercharger | [5] |
| Transmission | TorqueFlite 8HP90 8-Speed Automatic | [6] |
| Curb Weight | Approx. 4,275 lbs | [7] |
| Production Run | 3,300 units (3,000 U.S. / 300 Canada) | [1] |
Engine & Powertrain: The Heart of the Beast
At its core is a completely re-engineered 6.2L HEMI V8. While it shares a lineage with other Hellcat engines, its internals are almost entirely new. The block, crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons were all fortified to withstand cylinder pressures of up to 2,500 PSI—over 32% higher than the 2018 Demon[5][8]. The key to its power is a massive 3.0-liter IHI supercharger, which provides 40% more boost pressure than its predecessor[5]. This dual-fuel powertrain is a marvel of modern engineering, capable of automatically detecting the ethanol content in the fuel and adjusting its calibration to deliver either a “mere” 900 horsepower on premium gasoline or the full 1,025 horsepower on E85[4].
Drag-Focused Technology & Features
The Demon 170 is armed with a suite of technologies designed for one purpose: to dominate the drag strip.
- TransBrake 2.0: This launch control system allows the driver to build and hold engine torque without overpowering the brakes, enabling explosive and repeatable launches[6].
- Line Lock: This feature locks the front brakes independently, allowing the rear tires to spin freely for a perfect burnout to heat the drag radials[6].
- Drag Mode Suspension: The adaptive Bilstein dampers are specifically tuned for drag racing, softening the front for maximum weight transfer to the rear wheels upon launch and stiffening the rear to prevent squat[6].
- Mickey Thompson ET Street R Tires: For the first time on a production car, the Demon 170 comes standard with purpose-built drag radials (315/50R17 rear, 245/55R18 front), providing the immense grip needed to handle its power[4].
Performance Analysis: Beyond the Numbers
While the official numbers are astonishing, the real-world performance experience is a story of incredible highs and specific, purposeful lows.
Pros: The Unrivaled King of Acceleration
- World-Record Acceleration: The 1.66-second 0-60 mph time is faster than multi-million dollar hypercars, delivering a G-force that is genuinely violent and addictive[4].
- Sub-9-Second Quarter-Mile: It is the first factory production car to run a sub-nine-second quarter-mile, a holy grail of drag racing, certified by the NHRA[4].
- Immense Power on E85: The dual-fuel capability provides flexibility, but the full 1,025 horsepower on E85 is a transformative experience that sets it apart from every other muscle car in history[4].
- Blue-Chip Collectible Status: As the final, most powerful gas-powered Dodge muscle car with a limited run, its value and historical significance are virtually guaranteed[1].
Cons & Real-World Limitations: What Dodge Doesn’t Advertise
- Electronically Limited Top Speed: Despite its power, the Demon 170 is electronically limited to 149 mph[9]. This is primarily a safety measure due to the construction and speed rating of the stock Mickey Thompson drag radial tires, which are not designed for sustained high-speed runs[9].
- Owner-Reported “Bogging” Issues: Some owners have reported inconsistent launch performance at the drag strip, with the car sometimes “bogging” or hesitating off the line[10]. These issues have been discussed extensively on owner forums, with some cases being escalated to Dodge engineers for review[10].
- Extreme Fuel Consumption: While expected, the fuel consumption when running on E85 for maximum performance is staggering. Real-world tests have shown economy can plummet to as low as 4.7 mpg under aggressive driving[11].
- Specialist, Not an All-Rounder: This is not a car for carving corners or daily commuting. Its suspension is optimized for straight lines, and its drag radials are ill-suited for wet conditions or spirited canyon driving.
Rating Summary: A 10/10 Specialist, A 4/10 All-Rounder
| Category | Score | Justification |
|---|---|---|
| Performance (Drag Strip) | 10/10 | Unmatched, record-breaking acceleration and quarter-mile times straight from the factory. |
| Daily Drivability | 4/10 | Stiff ride, poor fuel economy, and specialized tires make it a chore for everyday use. |
| Value & Collectibility | 9/10 | Limited production and “Last Call” status ensure high residual value, but running costs are extreme. |
| Technology & Features | 7/10 | Infotainment is standard Challenger fare, but the drag-specific tech is revolutionary. |
| Overall Verdict | 8.5/10 | A masterpiece of engineering for its intended purpose, but its specialization is also its biggest limitation. |
Demon 170 vs. 2018 Demon: A Generational Leap in Power
The 2018 Demon was a legend in its own right, but the Demon 170 represents a significant evolution in nearly every performance metric.
Head-to-Head Comparison Table
| Feature | 2023 Dodge Demon 170 | 2018 Dodge Demon | Source(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Horsepower | 1,025 HP (on E85) | 840 HP (on 100+ Octane Race Gas) | [4], [5] |
| Max Torque | 945 lb-ft | 770 lb-ft | [4], [5] |
| Supercharger Size | 3.0 Liters | 2.7 Liters | [5] |
| 0-60 MPH Time | 1.66 seconds | 2.3 seconds | [4], [5] |
| Quarter-Mile Time | 8.91 seconds | 9.65 seconds | [4], [5] |
| Key Visual Difference | No widebody fender flares | Prominent widebody fender flares | [5] |
| Rear Tires | Mickey Thompson ET Street R | Nitto NT05R | [5] |
Verdict: Is the 170 Worth the Upgrade?
Absolutely. The Demon 170 is not a simple retune of its predecessor; it’s a ground-up overhaul of the powertrain. The move to a larger supercharger, a stronger driveline, and a fuel system capable of harnessing the power of E85 represents a monumental engineering leap[5]. For collectors and performance purists, the nearly 200-horsepower gain and the historic sub-nine-second quarter-mile time make the Demon 170 a fundamentally different and far more capable machine, justifying its status as the true apex of the Hellcat era.
The True Cost of Ownership: Price, Value & Running Costs
Owning a Demon 170 is a significant financial commitment that extends far beyond the initial purchase price.
Current Market Value: Beyond the $96,666 MSRP
The original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Demon 170 was $96,666, before a destination charge and a gas-guzzler tax[12]. However, due to its extreme rarity and instant collectible status, it never traded at that price. On the secondary market in 2025, the average sale price hovers around $167,532[13]. Prices fluctuate based on mileage, options, and color, with some examples selling for well over $200,000 and one recorded sale reaching an astronomical $700,000[13]. You can track recent Demon 170 auction results to see the market in real time.
Fuel Economy: The Tale of Two Fuels
The Demon 170’s fuel economy is a study in contrasts. The official EPA rating is 13 mpg city and 21 mpg highway[7]. Surprisingly, under light-load highway cruising on 91-octane gasoline, some real-world tests have seen as high as 25 mpg[11].
However, the story changes dramatically when using E85 to access the full 1,025 horsepower. Because E85 has less energy density than gasoline, the engine must consume significantly more of it to produce power. In a real-world test featuring aggressive driving, the Demon 170’s fuel economy plummeted to just 4.7 mpg[11].
Maintenance, Insurance, and Other Costs
- Maintenance: There is no complimentary scheduled maintenance included with the car[7]. Given its high-strung nature, meticulous upkeep is essential.
- Replacement Parts: The cost of replacement parts is astronomical. A replacement Demon 170 crate engine, for example, can cost as much as a new Mazda Miata[14].
- Insurance: Insuring a limited-production, high-horsepower vehicle with a six-figure market value is exceptionally expensive. Owners should expect to pay a significant premium through specialist insurers.
- Consumables: The Mickey Thompson drag radials are soft-compound tires that will wear quickly, and a replacement set represents a significant cost.
Unlocking 1,025 HP: The Science of E85 Fuel
The secret to the Demon 170’s power lies in its ability to run on E85, a fuel blend containing up to 85% ethanol. Here’s why it makes such a difference:
- High Octane Rating: E85 has an octane rating of around 100-105, compared to 91-93 for premium gasoline[3]. This high octane level provides a superior resistance to “engine knock” or detonation.
- Enabling More Boost & Timing: Because knock is less of a risk, Dodge engineers could program the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to be far more aggressive. The ECU allows the supercharger to produce more boost and advances the ignition timing, forcing the engine to produce significantly more power safely[3].
- Cooling Effect: Ethanol has a powerful cooling effect on the intake air charge. Cooler, denser air allows for a more powerful combustion event, further increasing horsepower[3].
The Demon 170’s onboard sensors continuously measure the percentage of ethanol in the fuel. When the content exceeds 65%, a blue gas pump icon illuminates on the dash, confirming that the full 1,025 horsepower is available[4]. You can learn more from this technical explanation of E85 fuel.
The Ultimate Performance Path: Mods & The Hennessey Demon 1700
For the few who feel that 1,025 horsepower is simply not enough, an extreme performance path exists.
Recommended Stock-Engine Modifications
For a car this potent, the most common modifications focus on safety and consistency at the drag strip. Due to its ability to run sub-9-second quarter-miles, NHRA safety rules often require additional equipment for track use, such as:
- A parachute for safe deceleration[15].
- A harness bar and five-point racing harness for driver safety[15].
- An aftermarket roll cage for structural rigidity (though this may impact street legality).
The Hennessey Demon 1700: The 1,700 HP Twin-Turbo Overhaul
For the ultimate in performance, Hennessey Performance Engineering offers the “Demon 1700” upgrade. This is not a simple tune; it’s a complete engine transplant.
Hennessey removes the factory 6.2L supercharged engine (which is preserved and crated for the owner) and installs a custom-built, 440 cubic inch (7.2-liter) HEMI V8 with a massive twin-turbocharger system[16]. The result is a staggering 1,700 horsepower and 1,400 lb-ft of torque[16][17]. This package is engineered to achieve a quarter-mile time of just 7.9 seconds at over 175 mph[17].
This level of performance is incredibly exclusive, with production limited to only 12 units[17]. The cost for the upgrade starts at approximately $200,000, not including the price of the donor Demon 170[17]. This is the definitive, albeit costly, answer for those seeking the wildest street-legal muscle car on the planet. For inquiries, you can explore the official Hennessey Demon 1700 upgrade package.
Who is the Dodge Demon 170 For?
The Dodge Demon 170 is built for a very specific type of enthusiast. This is not a car for the casual driver. The ideal owner is one of three people:
- The Serious Collector: An individual who understands the car’s historical significance as the last and most powerful of its kind and sees it as a blue-chip investment.
- The Dedicated Drag Racer: An enthusiast who will frequently use the car for its intended purpose on a prepared drag strip, leveraging its advanced technology to chase record times.
- The Affluent Muscle Car Aficionado: A buyer who desires the ultimate expression of American horsepower and is willing to accept the compromises and high running costs in exchange for owning the undisputed king.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What was the original MSRP of the Dodge Demon 170?
The original base MSRP was $96,666. This figure did not include the destination fee or the federally mandated gas-guzzler tax[12].
How many Dodge Demon 170s were made?
A total of 3,300 units were produced for the 2023 model year. This was split between 3,000 cars for the United States and 300 for Canada[1].
Why is the Demon 170’s top speed limited to 149 mph?
The top speed is electronically limited by the manufacturer primarily due to the safety and construction limitations of the stock Mickey Thompson ET Street R drag radial tires, which are optimized for acceleration, not sustained high speeds[9].
Can the Demon 170 run on regular gas?
Yes, it can run on premium 91-octane (E10) gasoline. However, when doing so, the engine’s output is automatically reduced by the ECU to 900 horsepower. The full 1,025 horsepower is only available when the fuel contains an ethanol concentration of 65% or higher (E85)[4].
Conclusion
The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 is a landmark achievement—a violent, brilliant, and unapologetic celebration of internal combustion. It is not just a car but a piece of automotive history, representing the absolute zenith of the factory muscle car. While its real-world limitations and staggering running costs make it an impractical choice for most, that was never the point. It is a specialized weapon, a blue-chip collectible, and the most dominant machine ever to roll off a Detroit assembly line. For the select few who understand its purpose and can afford its price of admission, the Demon 170 offers an experience that is, and will forever remain, truly legendary.
Affiliate Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Safety Warning: The Dodge Demon 170 is an extreme performance vehicle. All performance driving should be conducted on a closed course with proper safety equipment. Obey all traffic laws.
References
- Stellantis Media. (2023). Dodge Brand’s Grand Finale: Last 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 Powers to $1.7 Million at Barrett-Jackson Auction. https://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com/newsrelease.do?id=25080
- Dodge Garage. (2023). The Most Powerful Muscle Car in the World: 1,025 Horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170. https://www.dodgegarage.com/news/article/press-room/2023/03/the-most-powerful-muscle-car-in-the-world-1025-horsepower-dodge-challenger-srt-demon-170-sets-new-performance-benchmarks.html
- Hot Rod Magazine. (2023). Why the 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 Runs on E85 Fuel. https://www.hotrod.com/news/2023-dodge-challenger-srt-demon-170-e85-fuel-octane-explainer
- Stellantis Media. (2023). The Most Powerful Muscle Car in the World: 1,025 Horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 Sets New Performance Benchmarks. https://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com/newsrelease.do?id=24738
- HotCars. (2024). How The Dodge Demon 170’s Engine Is Different From The Original Demon. https://www.hotcars.com/dodge-demon-muscle-car-models-comparison/
- Dodge Garage. (2023). 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170. https://www.dodgegarage.com/srt-demon-170
- Car and Driver. (2023). 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170. https://www.caranddriver.com/dodge/challenger-srt-demon-170
- TopSpeed. (2023). Dodge Challenger Demon Vs Demon 170: Here’s What Is Different. https://www.topspeed.com/dodge-challenger-demon-vs-demon-170/
- Hellcat.org Forums. (2023). 2023 Dodge Demon 170 top speed limited to 149. https://www.hellcat.org/threads/2023-dodge-demon-170-top-speed-limited-to-149.259825/
- ChallengerTalk Forums. (2023). Problems with Demon 170. https://www.challengertalk.com/threads/problems-with-demon-170.711305/
- HotCars. (2024). The Real MPG Numbers Of The Dodge Demon 170 Are Surprisingly Good. https://www.hotcars.com/real-mpg-numbers-dodge-demon-170/
- MotorTrend. (2023). 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 First Look: 1,025 HP, 8s in the Quarter. https://www.motortrend.com/news/2023-dodge-challenger-srt-demon-170-first-look-review/
- Classic.com. (2025). Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 Market. https://www.classic.com/m/dodge/challenger/3rd-gen/srt-demon-170/
- Motor283. (2023). Dodge Challenger Demon 170 Engine Costs as Much as a Miata. https://motor283.com/en/car-tips-mechanics-maintenance/dodge-challenger-demon-170-engine-costs-as-much-as-a-miata
- CarBuzz. (2023). Dodge Challenger Demon 170’s Optional Upgrades Include A Freaking Parachute. https://carbuzz.com/news/dodge-challenger-demon-170s-optional-upgrades-include-a-freaking-parachute/
- Hennessey Performance. (2024). Hennessey is Plotting a 1,700 HP Twin-Turbo Upgrade for Dodge Demon 170. https://www.hennesseyperformance.com/news/hennessey-plotting-1700-hp-twin-turbo-upgrade-for-dodge-demon-170/
- Hennessey Performance. (2024). Dodge Challenger Demon 170 Upgrades. https://www.hennesseyperformance.com/vehicles/dodge-challenger-demon-170-upgrades/