These Dodge Demon 170 Wheels Cost More Than an SUV - Prepare to Be Shocked
When muscle car enthusiasts think of the Dodge Challenger Demon 170, they often envision tire-melting power and blistering quarter-mile times. What they might not immediately think about is the eye-watering price tag of its carbon fiber wheels. Originally offered as a $11,495 option, these performance-enhancing wheels now command a jaw-dropping price of nearly $14,000 each.
Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 3/4 front view" src="https://static0.carbuzzimages.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/dg023_138cl-1.jpg" />To put that into context, a complete set of four would set back an enthusiast around $55,680. This is more expensive than purchasing a brand-new BMW X4 xDrive30i, and that’s before even considering taxes and shipping costs. Startlingly, the online listing has these as aluminum wheels, adding to the utter confusion of the situation.
So, what makes these wheels so special? First off, carbon fiber is a lightweight and robust material known to significantly enhance performance by shedding valuable pounds. Specifically, these wheels slice off 11.98 lbs from the vehicle’s total weight when compared to standard wheels, and the front wheels alone reduce weight by 20.12 lbs. Add in a forged aluminum center and titanium alloy hardware, and you have a recipe for unparalleled performance. Not only do these changes reduce weight, but the lower unsprung mass improves handling, braking, and acceleration.
Why Are These Wheels So Expensive?
This surge in pricing is nothing short of astonishing. Originally, the Challenger Demon 170 was retailing for a base price of $96,666 before any additional options were added. Why has the price for these wheels shot up? The main drivers could be exclusivity, performance enhancement, and the sheer desirability of aftermarket modifications.
First spotted by Carscoops, the price of these lightweight alloys borders on the scandalous. Imagine paying $13,920 for just one wheel, setting you back about $55,680 for a full set. To add insult to injury, buyers need to account for taxes, shipping, and the glaring omission of wheel caps.
Pricey, But Are They Worth It?
For those who are fortunate enough to own a Challenger Demon 170 with a set of these wheels from the factory, consider yourselves sitting on a gold mine. Earlier adopters who specified this option are now seeing their vehicles command premium prices on the used market. These carbon fiber five-spoke wheels not only provided a performance advantage but also added a layer of exclusivity that evidently, collectors and enthusiasts are willing to pay for.
It’s not just a matter of weight and performance; it’s also about the bragging rights and the exclusivity that come with owning a piece of high-end automotive technology. Equipped with these wheels, the Demon 170 boasts a 0-60 mph time of just 1.66 seconds and an NHRA-certified quarter-mile time of 8.91 seconds, according to Dodge. This makes the wheels worth every penny for those obsessed with top-tier performance.
The allure of these wheels is hard to resist, not just for the performance benefits but also for the discussion it sparks in forums and within the Dodge community. Whether it’s enthusiasts feverishly searching for part numbers (6861697AA rear, 68641698AB front) or expressing disappointment over pricing and availability, one thing is clear: these wheels are the talk of the town.