Meet Dumbo: The 1968 Dodge Hellephant Charger of Dom’s Nightmares

When Dodge unleashed the Hellcat engine in 2015, it was a game-changer, pumping out a remarkable 707 horsepower. The Demon followed suit, pushing the envelope even further with 808 hp. But when it comes to pure automotive insanity, the ultimate crown jewel in Dodge’s performance engine lineup has to be the Hellephant, a beastly crate engine capable of churning out a jaw-dropping 1,000 horsepower.

Now, imagine this Hellephant-Powered V8 in a classic muscle car. That’s exactly what one passionate enthusiast from Missouri, David, did. His dream? To breathe new life (and a 1000hp heartbeat) into a 1968 Dodge Charger.

This is David’s incredible story of persistence, passion, and horsepower as he brings his dream to life by installing the almighty Hellephant engine into his beloved ’68 Charger.

Also See: How To Buy a Dodge Demon 170: What You Need To Know

How To Get 1000hp? Find a Hellephant Crate Engine

David’s odyssey began with a relentless pursuit of the elusive Hellephant engine. Imagine leaving not one, not ten, but a staggering thirty voicemails in pursuit of your dream! That’s the level of determination David displayed in his quest to get this monster.

With demand soaring sky-high, it wasn’t a surprise that Dodge’s preorders for the Hellephant engine closed rapidly. Priced at $30,000, this supercharged marvel was not just a hot commodity; it was a symbol of unadulterated automotive desire. David’s patience paid off when he finally secured his piece of automotive history.

Hellephant Engine Heart Surgery

David’s dream was on the cusp of realization, but the journey had just begun. The Hellephant engine, capable of propelling pre-1976 cars into the realm of modern performance, was about to breathe new life into his ’68 Charger. However, this wasn’t your run-of-the-mill engine swap; it was a meticulous labor of love.

Over nearly two years, David invested an impressive $200,000 to create an automotive masterpiece. The result? A 1000hp ’68 Charger muscle car with a dash of modern-day performance wizardry.

Dumbo’s Final Numbers: 1,000 Horses & 950 Pound-Feet of Torque

Under the ’68 Charger’s hood lies the mighty 426-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) supercharged V8 Hellephant engine, delivering a jaw-dropping 1,000 horsepower and an earth-shaking 950 pound-feet (1,288 Newton-meters) of torque. The marriage of this powerhouse with a six-speed bowler Tremec T-56 Magnum transmission guarantees an adrenaline-pumping driving experience.

With these horsepower and torque numbers, David’s ’68 Charger boasts a top speed of 170 miles per hour (273 kilometers per hour).

Also See: How Much Does a Hellcat Weigh?

New Look For Dumbo: Stealthy Exterior Transformation

In pursuit of perfection, David made several subtle yet significant changes to the Charger’s exterior. The drip rail, once present on the rear side window surrounds, vanished, creating a seamless profile. The rear glass was installed flush, adding a touch of modernity while retaining the car’s classic charm.

Chrome-Free Elegance

As David’s Charger underwent its transformation, one thing became clear—the exterior was to exude stealth and sophistication. No chrome in sight; instead, a sleek, understated appearance that keeps the focus on raw power. The absence of chrome adds a touch of mystique to the Charger’s visual appeal.

Elephants on Parade

Embracing the Hellephant’s identity, David adorned the Charger with unique elephant branding on the rear-quarter panels, ensuring that his beastly creation was unmistakably tied to the mighty engine beneath the hood. An elephant badge graces the grille, serving as a symbol of pride for this exceptional build.

While the exterior underwent a significant transformation, David was keen on preserving the Charger’s classic interior as much as possible. The cabin exudes the same vintage charm that makes ’68 Chargers iconic among muscle car enthusiasts.

There’s always room for a touch of luxury, even in a 1000 HP muscle car. David sourced premium Italian leather, adding a hint of opulence to the car’s interior. It’s a subtle reminder that this Charger is a blend of classic heritage and modern refinement.

Related: 2023 Dodge Demon 170: 10 Facts You Didn’t Know

A 1000HP Dodge Charger With a Hellephant-Powered Heart: Final Thoughts

David’s journey from a dream to a reality is nothing short of awe-inspiring. His ’68 Dodge Charger, powered by the Hellephant engine, embodies the very essence of what Dodge had in mind when they unleashed this ferocious powerplant. It’s a testament to the indomitable spirit of enthusiasts who refuse to settle for the ordinary.

In a world where modern technology meets classic design, David’s creation stands tall—a roaring beast on four wheels that pays homage to the golden era of muscle cars while embracing the cutting-edge performance of today.

If you ever doubted the transformative power of a dream and the determination to chase it, look no further than David’s Hellephant-powered ’68 Charger.