Under the 2006 Dodge Magnum SRT-8’s hood sits a Hemi V8,bored out to 6.1 liters (the normal Hemi measures 5.7 liters of displacement), thus giving it just the right touch of muscle to perform its magic. Improved intake flow, induced by a ram-type intake manifold, and reworked combustion chambers help elevate the horsepower and torque of this beefy V8 by 25 percent over the 5.7-liter unit, to 425-horsepower and 420 lb.-ft., respectively. In fact, at 69.8 horsepower per liter, this motor’s output exceeds even that of the legendary “Street Hemi” from the late 1960s and early 1970s. Power is directed to the rear wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission equipped with a specially calibrated AutoStick manual-shifting mode.

While the drivetrain’s performance is quite impressive, the tweaking of the engine is only the beginning. Bringing a car like the Magnum SRT-8 to a stop is certainly a challenge, but doing so with a vehicle that weighs in at a hefty 4,260 pounds is a work of engineering prowess. The SRT-8’s Brembo braking system consists of big ventilated discs at all four corners, with red-painted four-piston calipers in residence all around. Dodge says the Magnum SRT-8 will stop from 60 mph in just 110 feet.

However, the dilemma with some antilock braking systems is their tendency to initiate action far too early. Most performance car owners have a better feel for what the car is doing, so for those with elevated abilities, the SRT folks allow this Magnum to reach a higher braking threshold before initiating ABS. This also goes for most of the Magnum SRT-8’s other electronically controlled features, including the stability control system.

As you would expect, the Dodge Magnum SRT-8 is equipped with a performance suspension that includes SRT-tuned dampers, specially tailored spring rates, unique bushings, and larger stabilizer bars. The Magnum SRT-8 sits lower than a stock Magnum, and that power rack-and-pinion steering features excellent on-center feel as well as precise turn-in response.

The whole package rides on beautiful 20-inch forged-aluminum wheels shod with high-performance Goodyear F1 three-season tires with asymmetrical tread. Sized 245/45R20 in the front and 255/45R20 tires in the rear, the Goodyears put plenty of rubber to the road.