From DaimlerChrysler Media...

Auburn Hills, Mich., Mar 01, 2004 - It has been more than 30 years since Dodge ruled the streets with HEMI® power and rear-wheel-drive performance. For 2004, Dodge unleashes power in an all-new proportion with the launch of its 2005 Dodge Magnum.

“Dodge Magnum is just one of the first new and exciting vehicles in our fast-paced launch plan,” said Dieter Zetsche, President and CEO of the Chrysler Group. “All told, we’ll bring twenty-five new vehicles to market in the next thirty-six months.

The legendary engine that powered Dodge's muscle cars of the 1960s has been re-engineered and reborn as a modern, high-performance, fuel-efficient and durable powerplant known as the all-new 5.7-liter HEMI V-8. With 340 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque, the Dodge Magnum RT can go from zero to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds.

The HEMI-powered 2005 Dodge Magnum RT will be the first modern production vehicle in North America to feature cylinder deactivation when it goes on sale in the spring of 2004. The Chrysler Group Multi Displacement System (MDS) seamlessly turns off the fuel consumption in four cylinders of the 5.7-liter HEMI engine when V-8 power is not needed. This provides a world class combination of performance and fuel economy.

Dodge brings back rear-wheel drive to transfer all this power to the pavement through an all-new independent five-bar rear-drive layout. The Magnum powertrain and suspension systems work together for a precise balance of performance and handling, making optimum use of all four tire contact patches. For ultimate power distribution, an all-wheel drive version of the Dodge Magnum also will be available.

“High performance vehicles like the Dodge Magnum demand rear-wheel drive,” said Zetsche. “Advances in stability systems and tire technology make this the right time to launch our rear-wheel drive, HEMI-powered Dodge Magnum.”

Dodge Magnum delivers on the benefits of a sport-utility vehicle, with available all-wheel drive and up to 3,800 pounds of towing capacity, along with the ride and handling of a sports sedan. Magnum’s unique package features an “extreme access” liftgate hinged forward off the d-pillar to open straight up instead of swinging out. The large 11.3 square foot opening can swallow a 27-inch TV. “The only way a car company can win, is by building great products with innovative features,” said Zetche. “ Dodge Magnum is the latest evidence that we are working hard to do just that.”

DODGE MAGNUM STANDARD FEATURES

2.7-liter V-6 engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission

Rear-wheel drive configuration

Short- and long-arm front suspension

Independent five-bar multilink rear suspension

17-inch wheels and tires

Rack and pinion steering

Driver and front passenger adjustable lumbar support

Tilt and telescoping steering column

Outside temperature display

60/40 split folding rear seat with armrest

Sentry Key® engine immobilizer system

Advanced multi-stage driver and front passenger air bags

Occupant Classification System

Enhanced battery saver

Solar control window glass

27.0 cu. ft. cargo volume

Under-floor cargo storage compartment

“Extreme access” liftgate

DODGE MAGNUM SXT FEATURES

In addition to Dodge Magnum standard features (listed above), the Magnum SXT model adds:

3.5-liter V-6 engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission

Available all-wheel drive with five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick

17-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels

Four-wheel antilock brakes

All-speed traction control

Electronic Stability Program

Emergency brake assist

Eight-way power driver’s seat

Sunscreen privacy glass

Cargo cover and storage net

DODGE MAGNUM RT FEATURES

In addition to Dodge Magnum SXT standard features (listed above), the Magnum RT model adds:

5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick®

Multi-displacement System (MDS)

6.3-second 0-60 mph

18-inch polished aluminum wheels

Dual exhaust

Performance brakes

Leather interior trim

Boston Acoustics six-speaker premium sound system with 288-watt digital amplifier

160 mph speedometerOPTIONAL FEATURES:

Power passenger seat

Heated driver and front passenger seats

Dual zone automatic temperature control with infrared sensing

Electronic vehicle information center with compass, Homelink® universal transceiver, and trip computer

Electrochromic interior rear view mirror

Security alarm with panic button on key fob

Front and rear side curtain air bags

Air filtration

Self-sealing tires

UConnect™ hands free communication

Power adjustable pedals

GPS Navigation radio with integrated six-disc CD/MP3 player

SIRIUS Satellite Radio™

Sunroof with express open and close feature

Trailer tow capability up to 3,800 pounds

Load-leveling shocks

redriderbob

 

redriderbob

 

redriderbob

 

redriderbob

 

The interior of it is really neat. Is there a thrid seat back there? It kind of looks like there could be one.

 

How much does the R/T cost?

Now I'm glad I didn't bother waiting for it, the SRT-4 is both quicker and faster than it.[sm=smiley2.gif]

 

OK, the 2005 Dodge Magnum RT (NOT R/T) models start at $29,995...

... now the SRT-4 might have a quicker 0-60 time, however the SRT-4 is govened to 148mph, while the Magnum RT has a top-speed of 153mph!

redriderbob

 

I know that they are supose to be electronically limited at 148 MPH, but I know someone who took his stock SRT-4 back to the dealership, girlfriend wouldn't let him keep it[sm=smiley36.gif], and backed out of it after reaching 155 MPH, besides I have read that they were electronically limited at 166 MPH and elsewhere that it was 158 MPH at yet another place. I have known of many that went above and beyond 148 MPH with a stock SRT-4. I have yet to try this myself, because I like having a drivers license and an SRT-4 that runs perfectly for a good long time.[sm=smiley36.gif]

 

I've still got that video clip of the SRT-4 pegging the speedo at 160 MPH!![sm=smiley20.gif][sm=smiley4.gif]

 

I can't imagine a vehicle with all that room being driven around EMPTY by too many people. Buyers are going to be putting their kids, dogs, cats, tents, coolers, chairs, inlaws, outlaws, golf clubs, luggage, bicycles, pogo sticks, skateboards, toys, floaties, dry cleaning, groceries, and God knows what else in there. Tell me when you've seen a fully loaded SRT-4.....probably never. Smart people don't RIDE in SRT-4's, they DRIVE them.

Weight = big difference in performance. I know, I was a Loadmaster in the Air Force.

I do admit though, it's the best looking wagon I've seen since the '57 Chevy Nomad!
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