The 2023 Dodge Challenger Black Ghost isn’t just another muscle car; it’s a tribute to Detroit’s street racing legacy, blending classic aesthetics with the ferocious power of a modern supercharged HEMI®. This limited-edition Challenger pays homage to Godfrey Qualls’ legendary 1970 Dodge Challenger R/T SE, capturing its iconic black and white styling while packing a serious punch under the hood.
A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing: Underestimated Power
Cruising down Woodward Avenue in the Black Ghost is an exercise in controlled chaos. The subtle exterior cues, reminiscent of the Challenger R/T Scat Pack, often lead unsuspecting drivers to underestimate its true capabilities. The lack of prominent SRT badging and the classic Challenger script logo further enhance the sleeper effect. More than one driver in a less powerful pony car challenged the Black Ghost to a race, only to be surprised by the ferocious roar of the supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® engine. While the whine of the supercharger hints at the underlying power, the Black Ghost easily masquerades as a less potent muscle car, making it the perfect choice for those who prefer to fly under the radar.
The Heart of a Beast: Unrivaled Performance
The Black Ghost’s unassuming exterior hides a monstrous powertrain. Based on the SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody Jailbreak, this Challenger boasts 807 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque. Mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and 3.09 gears, the Black Ghost delivers breathtaking acceleration. Zero to 60 mph sprints are dispatched in a mere 3.6 seconds on average street surfaces, putting many supercars to shame. But the true magic lies in the mid-range pull, where the supercharged HEMI® unleashes its full fury, catapulting the Black Ghost to triple-digit speeds with exhilarating ease. This is where the Redeye platform truly shines, leaving lesser muscle cars in its dust.
More Than Just Raw Power: Precision Handling and Control
The Dodge Challenger Black Ghost isn’t just about straight-line speed; it’s a well-rounded performance machine. Adaptive Bilstein dampers and massive Brembo six-piston brakes provide exceptional handling and stopping power. Selectable drive modes, ranging from Street to Track, allow drivers to tailor the suspension and steering response to their preferences. This adaptability makes the Black Ghost surprisingly comfortable for daily driving while still capable of carving corners with confidence. The Track setting, in particular, offers impressive handling capabilities with minimal body roll, ensuring a thrilling driving experience.
A Nod to the Past: Classic Styling with Modern Refinements
The Black Ghost’s visual appeal extends beyond its sleeper status. The exterior features a white tail stripe, a gator-skin-style vinyl roof treatment, chrome fuel door, Challenger script logos, and classic DODGE lettering on the upper fascia, all paying homage to Qualls’ original Challenger. Inside, carbon fiber trim, black suede headliner, black Alcantara/Laguna leather seats, and an Alcantara steering wheel create a luxurious and sporty atmosphere. Modern amenities like the 8.4-inch Uconnect® infotainment system with SRT Performance Pages seamlessly integrate with the classic-inspired design.
A Rare Breed: Limited Production, Lasting Impact
With only 300 units produced, the 2023 Dodge Challenger Black Ghost is a true collector’s item. It represents a unique blend of heritage, performance, and exclusivity. This is a muscle car that demands respect, both for its understated appearance and its brutal capabilities. The Black Ghost is a testament to Dodge’s commitment to building exciting and memorable vehicles that capture the essence of American muscle.
