Photos: Chrysler LLC

OK, so when Ma’ Mopar dropped a Viper V10 engine into a Challenger a while back, they said it was just an experiment. You know, it seems that the experiment was successful, as Chrysler has just announced that the 2011 Mopar Challenger Drag Pack will feature the 8.4-liter (512-cid) V10 engine with a 2-speed automatic transmission.

“With the introduction of our new 2011 Mopar Challenger Drag Pak, Mopar will be the only place to get a factory-built V10-powered race-ready drag car,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “Mopar’s new Challenger Drag Pak is a race rocket that will appeal to racers, collectors, dealers, and Dodge Viper owners.”

The car is being shown this evening at the Dodge Viper Owner’s Invitational in Salt Lake City, UT. It will later make its way to the 2010 SEMA Show in Las Vegas from November 2-5, and then to the PRI show in Orlando from December 9-11.

To be finished in either Stock Eliminator or Super Stock trim, the car comes complete with competition wheels and tires, a Mopar solid rear axle with performance gear ratio, a 2-speed drag race transmission with integrated roll control, a complete competition fuel system with fuel cell, and a complete interior with gauge package.

The 2011 Mopar Challenger V-10 Drag Pak features a Bright White paint scheme with color options. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is $85,512 and production is to begin early in 2011.

An optional $7,950 Competition Package includes an eight-point roll cage, six-point safety harness and mesh window net, making the car fully ready for sportsman racing.