The Dodge Magnum SRT-8
Chrysler was probably quite surprised by the sales rate of the Hemi in the Magnum - 43% of buyers demanded the Hemi, and it may well be that if there were more of the hot engines available, the rate would be even higher. The SRT-8 version was almost inevitable, then - providing 425 horsepower from 6.1 liters, complete with 71.6 square feet of cargo space, the Dodge Magnum SRT-8 can run the quarter mile in under 14 seconds, or carry a 27-inch TV.
Performance numbers for the all-new 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 include a 0-60 mph time in the low 5-second range and 60-0 mph braking in approximately 110 feet. Capable of covering a quarter-mile in the high 13-second range, the Dodge Magnum SRT8 can accomplish SRT’s signature performance test of 0-100-0 mph in the mid 16-second range. (More specs in our review).
The 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 offers key SRT attributes in ride and handling across a dynamic range, benchmark braking, performance-inspired interior appointments and exterior styling, as well as the raw performance of SRT’s big-bore version of the HEMI engine.
The 6.1-liter SRT version of the legendary Hemi engine retains select visual cues including the classic orange-painted cylinder block and black valve covers. The new engine also matches the legendary “Street HEMI” of the 1960s and 1970s with its 425-horsepower rating. But it does so with less displacement (and, for that matter, using net rather than gross horsepower), with far better fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
In addition to the extra cubic inches over the 5.7, the SRT-8's additional 85 horsepower comes from increasing the compression ratio, redesigning the cylinder head, intake and exhaust systems for increased flow, and increasing engine speed. The extra half-liter comes from boring the diameter of the cylinders by 3.5 mm; the compression ratio went from 9.6 to 10.3:1.
Engine breathing was increased with new higher-flow cylinder heads, a specially designed intake manifold, and exhaust headers with individual tubes encased in a stainless steel shell, all unique to the 6.1-liter HEMI engine. Larger-diameter valves and reshaped ports in the heads allow for maximized air flow. The intake manifold was designed with larger-diameter and shorter runners for higher-speed tuning. Exhaust is routed through a large-diameter (2.75-inch vs. 2.5-inch) exhaust system with 3.5-inch chrome tips.
To further increase horsepower, performance-oriented camshaft profiles were developed to allow more air in and out of the cylinders, as well as manage a higher engine speed. SRT engineers increased the HEMI’s peak power output engine speed nearly 20 percent, to 6,000 revolutions per minute (rpm) from 5,000 rpm. Intake and exhaust valve stems are hollow, and the exhaust valve stems are filled with sodium to help dissipate heat more efficiently.
The high-performance SRT 6.1-liter HEMI is strengthened with redesigned components, including a reinforced engine block, forged steel crankshaft, high-strength powdered-metal connecting rods, floating-pin pistons (cooled by oil squirters), and an oil pan modified to manage oil return to the pan sump at high engine speeds.
More information on the SRT 6.1 Hemi is on our standard Hemi page.
Power for the SRT 6.1-liter HEMI is channeled through an A580 five-speed automatic transmission with specially calibrated driver-selectable AutoStick®, which offers fully automatic or manual shifting selection. A heavy-duty four-flange prop shaft sends the torque from the transmission to an upgraded differential and axles.
The all-new 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 is set up for outstanding ride and handling across a dynamic range.
Chassis setup for the Dodge Magnum SRT8 is aimed at all-around performance with SRT-tuned dampers, specially tailored spring rates and suspension bushings, and large-diameter anti-sway bars. The ride height of the Magnum SRT8 is one-half inch lower than the Dodge Magnum, while the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) has been specially tuned for the 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8’s performance handling characteristics.
A new wheel and tire assembly consists of unique 20-inch forged aluminum wheels shod with high-performance Goodyear F1 three-season tires with asymmetrical tread (four-season tires are an available option). Tire dimensions are a formidable 245/45/20 in the front, and 255/45/20 in the rear.
Stopping the Dodge Magnum SRT-8
One of the most significant dimensions of well-balanced performance is the ability to slow and stop as safely and predictably as possible. The braking system of the 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 was designed to provide benchmark braking performance, setting a new standard for cars in its class.
All four wheels feature performance brake calipers developed by Brembo and finished in Dodge SRT red. Each is equipped with four pistons for even clamping performance. The Dodge Magnum SRT8 has 360 x 32mm vented rotors up front, with 350 x 26mm vented rotors in the rear.
2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 Body
A new front fascia helps increase cooling through integrated ducts that help direct air to cool the brakes. A front air dam reduces lift, while in the rear, there is an all-new fascia with an integrated wake modifier and aggressive cutouts to accommodate the dual 3.5-inch exhaust tips.
Dodge Magnum SRT8 styling is also unique with a body-color grille insert with chrome trim, satin-finish front and rear bumper inserts, body-color mirrors and door handles, and unique SRT badging. Three exterior colors are available: silver, black, and inferno red.
Inside, the 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 features power-adjustable, deeply sculpted and highly bolstered sport seats in the front complete with performance suede inserts to hold the occupants during maneuvering. All seats have contrasting red stitching. Other amenities include “carbon fiber” leather trim for better grip on the steering wheel, and special carbon fiber finishing on the center stack. The two colors are dark gray and light gray.
Full instrumentation, including a 180-mph (300 kph) speedometer, tachometer and temperature gauges, befits the performance-oriented character of the 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8’s interior.
Standard features of the 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT8 include AM/FM radio with six-disc CD changer, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, power adjustable pedal cluster and rear cargo net. Options include power sunroof, heated seats, supplemental side air bags, and the Trailer Tow Group which offers load leveling and height control.
