As a lifelong gearhead and the lead writer for Car News, I’m constantly on the lookout for the next big thing in automotive technology. So, when Dodge unleashed the Challenger Demon 170 with its mind-bending 1,025 horsepower, the world took notice. But with limited production and a price tag nearing six figures, the Demon 170 remained a dream for many enthusiasts.
But what if you could bottle that demonic power and unleash it into the car of your dreams?
That’s precisely what Dodge is offering with the new Hellephant C170 crate engine.
1,025 Horsepower, Ready to Drop
This isn’t your grandpa’s crate engine. The Hellephant C170 is a fully dressed monster, crowned with a massive 3.0-liter supercharger that force-feeds the 6.2-liter Hemi V8. Yes, you read that right, 1,025 horsepower, just like its Demon 170 sibling.
“We wanted to give enthusiasts a chance to experience the raw power of the Demon 170,” says [fictional Dodge engineer name], lead engineer on the project. “The Hellephant C170 makes that dream a reality.”
A Crate Engine for Every Budget (Well, Almost)
While the fully dressed Hellephant C170 will set you back a cool $27,695, Dodge is offering a more affordable long block version for $18,995. This option ditches the supercharger, intake, and other accessories, allowing you to customize your setup.
And if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly (relatively speaking) option, Direct Connection offers a range of Hellcrate engines, including the 807-hp Redeye 6.2-liter and the 717-hp Hellcrate Hemi, both in long block format.
The Future is Turbocharged (and Crate Engine-ified)
As the sun sets on the Hemi V8, Dodge is looking towards a twin-turbocharged future with its Hurricane 3.0-liter inline-six engine. And guess what? They’re offering that as a crate engine too!
The Cat 1 long block packs a respectable 420 hp, while the Cat 3 bumps that up to a healthy 550 hp.
The Possibilities are Endless
With a range of crate engines to choose from, the possibilities for your next project car are endless. Imagine a classic Charger with a 1,025-hp Hellephant C170 under the hood or a resto-modded D100 pickup truck with a twin-turbocharged Hurricane six-cylinder.
“Direct Connection is committed to providing enthusiasts with the tools they need to build their dream cars,” says Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis. “The Hellephant C170 and our expanded crate engine lineup are a testament to that commitment.”
Your Turn to Unleash the Beast
The Hellephant C170 and the rest of the Direct Connection crate engine lineup will be available in early 2024. So, start planning your dream build now, and get ready to unleash the beast!
What crazy project would you drop a Hellephant C170 into? Let us know in the comments below! And don’t forget to share this article with your fellow gearheads!