The SEMA Show is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world. Each year, hundreds of manufacturers and builders from around the globe gather in Las Vegas to showcase their latest products, builds, and innovations. One of the standout cars from the 2011 SEMA Show was a beautifully restored 1968 Dodge Charger.
The 1968 Dodge Charger is one of the most iconic American muscle cars of all time. This particular Charger was built by the team at Ringbrothers, a Wisconsin-based company known for their high-quality restorations and custom builds. The Charger, nicknamed "Defector," was commissioned by owner Barry Blomquist, who wanted a car that combined classic muscle car styling with modern performance and technology.
The first thing that catches your eye about the Defector is its stunning custom paint job. The car is finished in a deep, glossy black with contrasting red accents on the grille, hood scoop, and rear taillights. The paint job is so flawless that it almost looks like a mirror, and it perfectly highlights the Charger's aggressive lines and curves.
Under the hood, the Defector is powered by a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine that has been heavily modified by Wegner Motorsports. The engine is capable of producing a whopping 750 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, thanks to the addition of a massive supercharger, custom headers, and a high-flow exhaust system. The engine is mated to a Tremec six-speed manual transmission, which sends power to the rear wheels through a custom driveshaft and a limited-slip differential.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Defector is its suspension setup. The car sits on a Detroit Speed Engineering hydroformed front subframe and a custom four-link rear suspension, which provides superior handling and cornering capabilities. The suspension is adjustable, allowing the driver to fine-tune the ride to their liking. The car also features massive Baer six-piston brakes on all four corners, which provide plenty of stopping power for the powerful engine.
Inside, the Defector is just as impressive as it is on the outside. The interior has been completely reworked, with custom bucket seats, a full roll cage, and a new dash and gauges. The car also features a high-end audio system, with speakers and subwoofers strategically placed throughout the cabin for maximum sound quality.
Overall, the 1968 Dodge Charger Defector is a true masterpiece of automotive engineering. It combines classic styling with modern performance and technology in a way that few other cars can match. Its flawless paint job, powerful engine, and advanced suspension make it a true standout among the many incredible cars that were on display at the 2011 SEMA Show.
The Defector's appearance at the SEMA Show was a true testament to the skill and dedication of the team at Ringbrothers. The company has a long history of producing high-quality custom builds and restorations, and the Defector is certainly one of their most impressive creations to date.
In addition to the Defector, Ringbrothers brought several other custom cars to the 2011 SEMA Show, including a 1965 Mustang Fastback, a 1966 Chevelle, and a 1969 Camaro. Each of these cars was beautifully restored and modified to provide exceptional performance and style.
The SEMA Show is not just a place for builders and manufacturers to showcase their latest products and builds; it's also a place for car enthusiasts from around the world to gather and celebrate their love of all things automotive.