Hennessey Performance has unveiled a modified 2018 Dodge Challenger Demon that delivers a staggering 1,500 lb-ft (2,034 Nm) of torque at the wheels, surpassing the Bugatti Chiron's crank torque of 1,180 lb-ft. The upgrade includes a new supercharger and enhanced cooling.
Hennessey Performance Engineering has achieved a mechanical milestone: a modified 2018 Dodge Challenger Demon producing 1,500 lb-ft (2,034 Nm) of torque at the wheels. This figure exceeds the Bugatti Chiron’s crank torque of 1,180 lb-ft, placing the tuned muscle car among the highest-torque production-based vehicles ever.
How did Hennessey achieve this monstrous torque?
Hennessey focused on the 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine with several key modifications:
- Larger supercharger: A 4.5-liter unit of Hennessey’s own design.
- Enhanced intercooler: With a separate water tank for improved cooling.
- ECU remapping: Optimized fuel mixture and ignition timing.
- Full performance exhaust: Free-flow system for reduced backpressure.
According to CarBuzz, the wheel torque reading is 1,500 lb-ft, nearly double the stock Demon’s 770 lb-ft at the crank. However, Hennessey has not yet released horsepower or acceleration figures.
How much horsepower does the Hennessey Challenger Demon have?
Hennessey has not officially announced final horsepower, but based on the torque output, analysts expect it to exceed 1,200 hp. The stock Demon produces 840 hp on 100-octane fuel, and with these upgrades, it could approach 1,500 hp.
Comparison with Bugatti Chiron: Which is stronger?
The Bugatti Chiron produces 1,180 lb-ft of torque at the crank, while the Hennessey-tuned Demon delivers 1,500 lb-ft at the wheels. Typically, wheel torque is lower than crank torque due to drivetrain losses, but here the opposite is true—meaning the engine’s actual torque is significantly higher. In short, Hennessey wins by a large margin.
Will it be available in Saudi Arabia or the UAE?
Hennessey has not announced plans to sell this modified version as a complete car, but they typically offer upgrade packages to customers worldwide. Owners of a Challenger Demon in the Gulf can contact Hennessey to request the modification. The price is expected to exceed USD 100,000 (approximately SAR 375,000) on top of the base car’s cost.
What’s new compared to the previous generation?
This build is based on the 2018 Demon, but the modifications are entirely new. The 4.5L supercharger and enhanced intercooler are bespoke to this project, pushing torque far beyond any previous Hennessey Demon upgrade.
Conclusion: Engineering feat or numbers game?
Hennessey once again proves its ability to extract extreme performance from American V8s. However, record claims need independent verification. Until then, the modified Challenger Demon remains an icon for raw power enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the torque of the Hennessey Challenger Demon?
The modified Demon produces 1,500 lb-ft (2,034 Nm) of torque at the wheels, higher than the Bugatti Chiron's crank torque of 1,180 lb-ft.
How much horsepower does the Hennessey Challenger Demon have?
Hennessey has not officially announced horsepower, but estimates suggest over 1,200 hp, possibly reaching 1,500 hp based on torque figures.
Can I buy this car in Saudi Arabia?
Hennessey does not sell the complete car, but owners of a Challenger Demon can order the modification package. The cost is over USD 100,000 (SAR 375,000) plus the base car.
What is the difference between wheel torque and crank torque?
Wheel torque is the actual torque reaching the tires after drivetrain losses, typically lower than crank torque. In this case, wheel torque is higher, meaning the engine's actual torque is much greater.
Sources
- CarBuzz — Hennessey's Insane Challenger Demon Laughs At Your Puny Bugatti Chiron
