What was your first car?
It was a Nissan Sunny, which I got just after finishing school. I had a great time with that car. However, over the years I developed a taste for more sophisticated and classy cars such as Porsches and BMWs.
But instead of one of those you bought a Yank tank!
I never thought about buying a car, let alone a Dodge Challenger, until I visited the dealership with a friend. And when I first laid eyes on it, I just had to have it, so I bought it in December last year.
So now you like muscle cars more?
I like the Camaro but it looks too futuristic for me. The Challenger has a retro and muscular look that will never grow old. It has a timeless shape. This is a modern car but the classic looks remain.
Best of all, it has a Hemi under the bonnet…
Yes, it has the 425bhp 6.1-litre V8 Hemi with a five-speed automatic transmission. It weighs 1,887kg and that's quite a lot, but the way it handles is second to none. This SRT8 model is good for 569Nm of torque at 4,800rpm.
It's a thirsty ride, but this isn't a car to buy and then worry about fuel consumption. I assure you, when I floor it, how much fuel it's burning is the last thing on my mind!
And it's pretty quick too…
It goes from 0-100kph in 4.7 seconds. I added an exhaust system, which makes it sound like a beast during acceleration. It is such an adrenaline rush and this is what I love about it the most — it's exciting.
But, you don't really drive it that much…
I use it as my second car so I drive it sparingly, and since I am usually away with work, I have managed to keep the mileage down.
I haven't done much to it but I definitely want to tune the engine, add an even better exhaust system and maybe get some new rims too. I don't plan to sell it so I'll take my time with any modifications that I decide upon.
It was a surprise for the family when you brought it home, right?
Nobody knew I was buying the car, so the day I drove it home the family freaked out! The Challenger is certainly the odd one out in our garage. It's bright orange for a start, which is my favourite colour, and it's the perfect shade too. Some people don't like the colour, but I didn't buy this car for them. That said, my family and friends love it.
It's not in the same league as a Ferrari or a Lamborghini when it comes to performance, but it is a head-turner alright. It gets compliments everywhere I drive it. The Bose sound system just adds to the experience.
Anything you don't like about it?
The boot is a bit small. The design of the spare tyre takes up most of the space but it's something I've learnt to live with. But, I am very impressed with the interior. Compared to its rivals, the Camaro and Mustang, the Challenger is the most spacious and comfortable for both driver and passengers.
Are you a member of any car clubs?
Not yet, but it's high time I joined one.
What's the dream?
When I stumbled upon the Challenger, I knew I had found my dream car.
Bio
Name Arif Al Harthy
Job Airline pilot
From Dubai
Wheels 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8
In the UAE Born here
