Detroit Speed’s ’69 “Mayhem” Charger Is Unlike Any Build You’ve Seen
Detroit Speed is a shop based out of Michigan, and their cars are world-class. Their restomod approach is unlike any other, keeping the classic lines of any given car, while thoroughly updating the pieces under the skin. “Other companies have done that” you might say, but not to this extent.
This car — despite having a HEMI with a supercharger slapped on top — is not meant for all-out speed. Comfort is the main focus. You read that right. Creature comforts like air conditioning are retained, along with a paddle shift automatic transmission. More on that gearbox later.
Essentially, the owner wanted a comfortable GT car with gobs of power on reserve. With 830 horsepower, that wish was easily granted. Power from the V8 is sent to the rear via a unique paddle shift transmission, which is controlled by a Bluetooth paddle shifter. That’s something I’ve honestly never heard of.
The price of this build somewhat limits Matt Farah of The Smoking Tire from driving it hard in the video below, along with the fact that it is a customer’s car. But that doesn’t take away from the overall luxury of the car. Automatic air conditioning? Yep, it has that. Heated and ventilated seats? It has those as well. And while a stealthily integrated roll cage might not add to the comfort, it does add to the seriousness of the car.