Unique Dodge Charger SRT8 in a two-door coupe body put up for auction
Auction site Bring a Trailer has listed an extremely rare example of the Dodge Charger SRT8, which is radically different from the production version. This car underwent a dramatic transformation, turning from a four-door sedan into a two-door coupe, styled after the legendary 1968 Charger.
How this two-door wonder came to be
When Dodge introduced the Charger on the LX platform in 2005, many enthusiasts were happy about the return of the legendary name but disappointed that the car was a four-door. One California-based company decided not to complain but to act. It took a Charger SRT8, a large amount of carbon fiber, and created a two-door version that Dodge never released. Now this unique car is up for sale.
If the name Metalcrafters sounds familiar, it is because the California team spent years building concept cars and prototypes for major automakers like Mercedes and Hyundai. So this modified Dodge was no garage project. The company took a 2008 Charger SRT8, shortened it, and completely reworked the exterior using a hand-laid carbon fiber body inspired by the legendary 1968 Charger.
Design and technical specs
The car received a full-width grille, hidden headlights, recessed side panels, flying buttress rear pillars, and four round taillights. While the design has plenty of nods to the vintage Dodge, the beltline that rises to the middle of the C-pillar is more reminiscent of a 1968 Buick Skylark or Oldsmobile Cutlass than the actual Charger of that era.
Under the carbon fiber lies a genuine SRT8. Power comes from the original 6.1-liter Hemi V8, which produced 425 hp (431 PS) and 569 Nm of torque. This example also features a cold air intake and a custom exhaust system, though the main attraction is likely the sound rather than extra power.
Full SRT8 package
The rest of the SRT8 equipment remains unchanged, including Brembo brakes, independent suspension, and a five-speed automatic transmission. All this equipment would have seemed incredibly exotic to the average Charger buyer in 1968.
However, the interior cannot boast of exoticism. It is typical of FCA vehicles from that period. Stellantis design chief Ralph Gilles recently described Chrysler interiors of that time as stiff and plasticky, like water guns.
But even if it is not the most stylish cabin, it is well-equipped: heated leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and a touchscreen infotainment system. The seats show minimal wear, as the odometer reads less than 5,500 km.
Regardless of whether you think Dodge should have made an LX Charger coupe, and whether you like Metalcrafters’ work, it is hard not to appreciate the effort put into this project. If you want to add it to your collection, you can view the full list of lots on Bring a Trailer.
This car is a vivid example of how private initiative and a professional approach can create something that a major automaker did not. It combines modern power with classic styling, making it a truly unique exhibit. Despite some controversial design choices, this Charger SRT8 is a testament to the skill and boldness of its creators, and its low mileage and original mechanicals make it a valuable lot for collectors seeking something truly unusual.