Eric K wrote publicly and some others wrote privately with spec and
performance questions about the SR-71 Bullet Hot Rod Dakota.
We've not done any formal performance testing yet of the truck, with it
coming and going to shows, and having been to Chrysler for an official
looksee, and so I apologize for the lack of hard data. I was not directly
involved with the build so I don't personally know all of the work that was
done on the engine but that list is being assembled. The idea here is that
people (especially guys like you all on this list) can buy the base model
with a Magnum 360 and then go to town and tweak the engine how _you_ like
it. What was done here was more what tickled our fancy. The emphasis of
the truck is on its styling and suspension. My informal data on the
suspension performance is that the Viper-based fully-independent suspension
is definitely a kick to feel in action. Tearing around Road America at well
over 110mph (it was during touring - and you're supposed to stay under 70),
the back end of that truck never let loose of the pavement - not through any
of the turns - the carousel - none of it. And the ride was smooth and
lithe.
The styling is the other important part - this truck commands the eye like
nothing else. It was amazing to people watch at Road America during the
vintage races when the SR-71 was on display. Always a second look. And
this amidst all sorts of amazing vehicles ranging from Cobras to MacLaren
F1's, Ferrari F40's, Diablos, Porsches, Panteras, etc. It was as if all
those other cars didn't even exist.
We don't think of it as a modified Dakota. Not really so much even a tuned
Dakota. It's a completely new animal. Those wide Michelins squawk with out
any trouble at all, and it's very easy to leave rubber wherever you want.
What I know about the engine is custom headers, different injectors, air
intake box (through shaker hoods). There's alot more that was done to the
engine. Like I said, I'll be letting you guys know about it.
Anyway, we expect to get some serious track time at the end of this month so
we can assemble performance data. We'll keep you guys posted
and I would sure appreciate your feedback, especially more analytical,
critical assessments. It's hard to get a person to verbalize their true
feelings when they're standing there, mouth open, tongue hanging out, hand
reaching for the wallet.
Hope this helps clarify!
-Erik Nielsen
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