2019 Dodge Challenger R/T 1320 Is a Go-Fast Thrill (2024)

If the number 1320 has no particular significance to you, then the 2019 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack 1320 is probably not for you. If, however, 1320 is a number that defines your life and how you live it, then read on.

If you've made it this far you probably know, but just in case, the 1320 Drag package is named for the length of a quarter-mile in feet. Like the limited-edition Demon, this is a Challenger set up for the drag strip. But the Demon has been discontinued for 2019, so the 1320 is now the factory-prepped dragster in the Challenger lineup, which is why Dodge let us rip on the 1320 at the drag strip at the Auto Club Speedway in Pomona, California.

Ready, Set, Go

Based on the 485-hp Challenger R/T Scat Pack with its optional eight-speed automatic transmission, the $3995 1320 Drag package adds the Demon's adaptive dampers and launch-friendly suspension setup, a transmission brake, a line-lock feature for burnouts, and installs only the driver's seat. Including the 1320-required automatic trans, which amounts to $595 option once the no-longer-required gas-guzzler tax is omitted, the 1320 starts at $46,080. Adding the other seats and the priceless ability to bring the family along costs only $2. The 1320 doesn't offer the Demon Crate that packaged skinny front wheels and tires, a jack, and tools, but the car does come with Nexen N'Fera SUR4G Drag Spec tires, sized 275/40R-20. Soft and sticky, the Nexens have a low treadwear rating of 100, indicating they wouldn't last long on the street, but they will take a burnout and, like real drag slicks, they want some heat in them to maximize their grip.

After bringing the rubber up to temperature and cleaning them with the ritualistic smoking of the tires, inch up to the staging area and try to ignore the wave of adrenaline that hits. Squeeze the Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, wait for the green light before engaging the trans brake, release it, and go. Selecting Drag mode shuts off the traction and stability control, so it's all up to your left foot to manage the 6.4-liter Hemi's 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. Getting it right is as rewarding as it is elusive. According to Dodge, an 11.7-second quarter-mile run at 115 mph is possible, but during our runs on the drag strip Dodge wisely left the timing equipment off to keep us from getting too competitive and gambling against each other.

Simple, Straight-Line Fun

Even though we weren't betting or being timed, the 1320 proved to be adrenaline-soaked fun. The naturally aspirated V-8 rips down the strip, and the rush that comes before the green light flashes is seriously addictive. We can't imagine Dodge will sell many of these drag-strip Challengers. It's for a select few enthusiasts who will hopefully make the most of the included one-year membership with the National Hot Rod Association. What this car shows is that Dodge is serious about filling every need it can with the Challenger—and stoking every bit of enthusiasm for the car in the process. Maybe that's why the Challenger had its best sales year in 2018. Not too bad for a car that launched in 2008 yet continues to thrive in a world dominated by SUVs and trucks.