Electric Cars

A heavily customized 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack has been transformed into an engineering marvel, pushing the boundaries of its original design. This project, spearheaded by enthusiast Rob Dahm, demonstrates the remarkable potential of the Charger's inline-six engine, achieving close to 1,000 horsepower at the wheels through strategic modifications. The endeavor, however, highlights the inherent limitations of standard vehicle components when subjected to extreme power outputs, particularly concerning the transmission system.

Dahm's approach to boosting the Charger's performance was deceptively simple yet highly effective. He opted for a larger turbocharger, significantly increased boost pressure, and switched the fuel to E85. These external enhancements alone, without any internal engine alterations, propelled the car's output to an astounding 968 horsepower and 863 lb-ft of torque. This figure far surpasses the stock high-output version of the Charger's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, which typically produces 550 hp and 531 lb-ft of torque. The initial stage of tuning, before the introduction of nitrous and with the full exhaust system intact, already saw the car nearing 850 horsepower. Subsequent adjustments, including a significant boost increase to 46 psi, led to the final power surge.

The impressive power gains came with a notable challenge: the factory-standard eight-speed transmission proved incapable of handling the extreme forces generated by the modified engine. During dyno testing, the transmission began exhibiting unusual shifting patterns, a clear indication of its struggle to manage the immense power. This behavior is likely a built-in protective mechanism designed to prevent catastrophic failure. Despite these signs of strain, the transmission managed to remain operational and intact throughout the rigorous testing, allowing the vehicle to retain its full functionality.

This project serves as a compelling testament to the robustness of the Charger's engine, capable of enduring nearly double its original power output without internal modifications. It also underscores the critical role of complementary drivetrain components in high-performance applications. Had the transmission been engineered to match the engine's augmented capabilities, it is plausible that the Charger could have achieved even higher, potentially four-figure, horsepower readings on the dynamometer. This intricate balance between power generation and power delivery remains a perpetual challenge and fascination in the world of automotive tuning.

A pristine 1987 Shelby Lancer, a true gem from Carroll Shelby's turbocharged era, has emerged for auction, captivating automotive enthusiasts with its exceptional condition and remarkably low mileage. This particular model, one of only 800 units assembled in Shelby's California facility, stands as a testament to a unique period in American automotive history, far removed from the rally stages dominated by its Mitsubishi Lancer namesakes. With just 1500 miles recorded, this vehicle offers a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of performance heritage that combines rarity with an almost untouched state of preservation.

The vehicle's significance is further amplified by its distinct engineering and luxurious appointments for its time. Powered by a potent 2.2-liter turbocharged and intercooled four-cylinder engine, it delivers a robust 175 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque, channeled through a three-speed automatic transmission. Beyond its performance credentials, the Shelby Lancer was equipped with advanced features for 1987, including air conditioning, power windows, leather seats, and even a factory-installed CD player, highlighting its blend of sportiness and comfort. Its understated yet aggressive styling, complete with 15-inch basket-weave rims, embodies the spirit of a true pocket rocket, appealing to both collectors and those who appreciate a unique blend of power and period-specific luxury.

The Genesis of a Rare Performance Icon: The 1987 Shelby Lancer

The 1987 Shelby Lancer represents a fascinating chapter in automotive history, distinct from the rally-focused Mitsubishi Lancers that later gained fame. This particular model hails from an era when Carroll Shelby applied his performance expertise to various front-wheel-drive Mopars, transforming them into potent machines. What makes this 1987 iteration particularly special is its origin: it was not merely a trim level but a vehicle actually constructed at Shelby's California operations. This hands-on involvement from Shelby's team imbues these early models with an extra layer of authenticity and desirability for collectors. Only 800 of these California-built Lancers were produced in 1987, evenly split between manual and automatic transmissions, making survivors exceptionally rare. The subsequent Lancer Shelby models were assembled in Michigan, further distinguishing the 1987 version as a unique and limited production run.

This specific 1987 Shelby Lancer, currently up for auction, stands out not only for its limited production numbers but also for its astonishingly low mileage of just 1500 miles. This near-showroom condition is a direct result of its history; the current owner's father reportedly traded in a 1960s Shelby Mustang for it and drove it very sparingly. While the financial wisdom of that trade might be debated from an investment perspective today, the Lancer offered a significantly more refined driving experience for its time. It came equipped with a host of then-luxurious features, including air conditioning, power windows and door locks, plush leather seats, and a factory CD player—a truly rare amenity in 1987. These features, combined with its powerful turbocharged engine, made the Shelby Lancer a sophisticated and exciting performance car, a stark contrast to the more raw and unrefined vehicles of previous decades.

Unveiling the Shelby Lancer's Engineering and Design Legacy

The engineering prowess behind the 1987 Shelby Lancer is evident in its powertrain and performance characteristics. Under the hood lies a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine, enhanced with turbocharging and intercooling, which collectively produced a respectable 175 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. This power output was consistent across both manual and automatic transmission variants, a notable advantage for the automatic models, as later iterations of the Lancer Shelby with automatic gearboxes experienced a significant reduction in power. The three-speed automatic transmission in this particular example, while perhaps not the purist's first choice, still delivers the full performance potential of the engine, making it a capable and engaging drive for its era. This commitment to consistent power delivery across transmission types highlights Shelby's dedication to performance, regardless of driver preference.

Beyond its mechanical specifications, the 1987 Shelby Lancer also boasts a distinctive design that subtly communicates its performance pedigree. True to Shelby's tradition, the car features ample badging and a unique plaque indicating its production number—this particular vehicle is number 590 of the 800 units manufactured. Despite its performance capabilities, the exterior styling is relatively understated for the 1980s, characterized by a mild aero-look package and attractive 15-inch basket-weave rims. This design approach gives the car a compact, aggressive, and agile appearance, hinting at its capabilities without being overtly flashy. The fact that this model was exclusively offered in red further solidifies its sporting identity, drawing parallels to other iconic performance vehicles. This combination of robust engineering, period-specific luxury, and a subtly aggressive aesthetic makes the 1987 Shelby Lancer a compelling and historically significant vehicle for collectors and enthusiasts alike.