last weekend I test drove an R/T with the STP , anti spin, 20" chrome clads, and Auto. I can only assume it was not in sport mode and it was a very comfortable ride but it didn't blow me away in the cornering department but it was acceptable.
my current car is a 2011 Mustang PP with 245/45/19 PZero's and although it handles fantastic and I thought it rode pretty nice, comparing it to the Challenger it felt like a wagon with wooden wheels as far as ride quality and quiet interior.
if an R/T Plus (what I think I want) with 18" wheels and no SRT or Anti-Spin actually rode better than the one I drove before, I don't think I could stand it.
the sport suspension and 20's rode better than a Cadillac a family member owned and I wouldn't want to lose any handling so I wouldn't give up the STP but since I won't be drag racing I don't know if I need the Anti-Spin and it that affects handling. I've found a 2012 R/T Plus on the lot new and it has the STP but no Anti-Spin, otherwise equipped very much like I want...Anti-Spin worth passing on this one or ordering a 2013 for about the same as the 2012?
STP isn't that a company that makes additives?
For the R/T model this is the sports suspension package consisting of what?
I thought the SRT was the only model that had that switch for the dampening suspension. So R/T has it too?
the one I drove did, or I assume that's what the sport button on the dash was.. saleman mentioned it but I didn't mess with it. I know it comes with heavier duty brakes too. if I can find a 12 with auto, sunroof, Super Trac Pack, and anti spin I'll buy it but that seems unlikely since I haven't been able to find one, always missing one item somewhere then it will have $2000 worth of stereo upgrades and GPS.. arrrrg. guess I'll have to order a 2013 and I'm less likely to do that than just buy one when I see it.
For the R/T model this is the sports suspension package consisting of what?
I thought the SRT was the only model that had that switch for the dampening suspension. So R/T has it too?
I wish people would get this straight, it is on the SRT ONLY.
Regardless of what people say they felt in their SXT or R/T with STP, it is exclusive to the SRT. The SPORT button is only available on the lower models with Automatics and only affects shift characteristics on the transmission, it does not do anything to the suspension because they are not equipped with the Active Adaptive Suspension that the SRTs have.
Below is a cut and paste from the DODGE website regarding the 2012s. The 2013s have a 3-mode but is still exclusive to the SRTs.
DYNAMIC SRT® HANDLING
A new two-mode adaptive damping suspension on the Dodge Challenger 392 SRT8® adapts to road conditions and driving styles, for optimal control.
The system automatically tunes the suspension based on:
Drivers can also select between an "Auto" or "Sport" mode on the adaptive suspension. Changing the setting allows the shock damping characteristics to quickly change from an everyday performance ride to much firmer damping for more challenging driving situations.
Yep, that's the German designation for the .380 ACP (US). You can easily get lost in that stuff too.
Now straight from the Dodge site, STP (Super Track Pak), a $595 option that's bundled with the 20" chrome clads on an R/T, is:
245/45ZR20 BSW Goodyear Performance Tires
Anti-Lock 4-Wheel Disc Heavy Duty BrakesAnti-Lock brakes are equipped with electronic sensors that prevent wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking or slippery conditions
Performance Steering w/Variable Displacement Pump
Sport Suspension
If you don't mind my saying... you're all over the map, my man! Are you really still cross-shopping SRT and SXT, looking for performance AND economy AND comfort? I think you should focus primarily on budget and must-haves based on how you're going to use the car. It's an elimination process unless your funds are limitless. Once you've narrowed it down some you can study all the options for those models on Dodge's site (I know it's not the best). Your budget will make a lot of decisions for you. And then, if still confused or looking for some hard-to-find info, you can ask for suggestions or clarifications here; that's how forums work, brother! You're making us (not that we're not game) make all the homework and thinking for you. I hardly ever ask questions on here, but I registered so I could use the search function and most everything has already been discussed. Example: Super Track Pack - Consists Of?
OK, this particular thread is about comfort. Since it's a very subjective thing you get opinions all over the place. Mine is that you (not the collective you - I know that some are allergic to roll) should stay away from most handling packages; those are usually bundled with the big rims and narrow tires. And if you're concerned about mileage and gas guzzler taxes, you should look at the price of those fancy shocks first: sqeaking=bad shocks
A Challenger will be more comfortable than a real sportscar (or a stang), but even in stock form... it's decent, but not overly plush to me (seats or suspension).
Trying to help, but we're getting round and round and round...
OK... So I just bought the R/T (today! ). It's a base model with the 18" rims, 55 tires (lowest profile I've ever had), and stock everything. While it's a little early, I've put quite a few miles on it already so I'll share my observations. I've hit potholes and speed bumps (ah, LA streets) and that thing is smooth, man. No, it's not a Town Car and the seats are firmer than a Crown Vic's, but it's a hell of a comfortable muscle car. Since you thought your Corvette was comfy you'll probably be able to handle sportier Challenger trims like an R/T with the STP or even an SRT. I maintain that it's all academic and subjective until you test-drive one, but that's my take. Personally, for my use (daily driver occasionally run hard), it's very nice. A cruiser it sure is. I already prefer it to my old Charger (that felt clumsy, in comparison).
congrats on the R/T.. did you drive the STP? I drove both, non STP and STP and other than having too much air in the tires I really couldn't say one was more comfortable than the other.. the STP car seemed a little firmer over irregularities in the road but as far as expansion joints and potholes they both felt very nice... and then again I drive a Mustang, for now. I may have located the Challenger I've been looking for..
The Following User Says Thank You to diver88 For This Useful Post:
Thanks, diver88! No, I haven't. The STP is actually the only option I would've liked to have (in good part for that ESP-kill capability). Unfortunately, it's bundled with the chrome-clad 20's that I really didn't want, and often with other packages like the Classic on the lots so I passed. I'm one of those guys who are not averse to a little body roll or flex here and there while driving way over what's considered reasonable so the base versions work for me. I don't need a plush ride either, but don't want to have my fillings shaken loose by our lovely California roads, so that's another reason to shun the sporty versions. Finally, I couldn't care less that the lowly 18's make my car look like a V6.
I test drove a base and bought another one - I try not to window-shop, especially models I know I can't touch (like the SRT)... why torture yourself, right?
More on point, although the only V6 I drove once was the old SE, I think that less weight in the front might only benefit handling, not comfort. So I'll speculate that the base R/T may be the most comfy Challenger of all.
Last edited by USRWDV8; 11-20-2012 at 10:57 PM.
Reason: I always seem to miss something
Thanks for the suggestion, BNB. Nothing to lose in trying that, you're right (yes, 2013). Otherwise I'll just do the no ESP thing, which is no big deal.
UPDATE: negatory on turning off ESP on a base '13 R/T auto. Mr. Squiggly only turns off TC and does nothing else, sitting or rolling (I would've been surprised). I've read you need the STP for that.
The AutoGuide.com network consists of the largest network of enthusiast-owned enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
AutoGuide.com provides the latest car reviews, auto show coverage, new car prices, and automotive news. The AutoGuide network operates more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share opinions as a community.