Electric Power Dominates: Dodge Demon 170 vs. Lucid Air Sapphire
The Dodge Demon 170, a modern-day muscle car fantasy, packs a 1,025 horsepower supercharged Hemi V8 under its hood, boasts a nearly $100,000 price tag, and claims a blistering 1.66-second zero to 60 mph acceleration. It’s the ultimate farewell to the iconic Dodge Challenger, designed to leave a lasting impression.
Yet, despite its formidable specifications, the Demon 170 pales in comparison when lined up against the Lucid Air Sapphire in a drag race.
The Clash of Titans
"Everyone hoped for a closer contest," stated Hagerty’s Jason Cammisa in a recent video where America’s premier gasoline-powered muscle car faced off against America’s top electric vehicle. "Even the Lucid team, who were cheering for the Demon. We gave it multiple attempts but the outcome was clear."
Price Tags and Performance
First, let’s acknowledge the vast price difference. While the Dodge Demon 170 is expensive, the Lucid Air Sapphire sits in an entirely different league, priced at around $250,500. Kudos to Dodge for competing in this supercar class. Despite their differences, both cars appeal to specific audiences.
The Lucid Air Sapphire sets a high bar with its 1,234 horsepower, 427 miles of range, and luxurious features that outclass many high-end vehicles. Outperforming Dodge’s best muscle car is just one of its many perks, provided you can afford it.
Quarter-Mile Showdown
In this Hagerty video, Cammisa and his team pit the final Challenger against the Air Sapphire in several quarter-mile sprints at two venues. The first stop is Willow Springs Raceway, where the Lucid Air Sapphire immediately takes the lead.
The EV finishes nearly 400 feet ahead of the Dodge, completing the quarter-mile in an astounding 9.2 seconds at 158 mph. It reaches 60 mph in merely 2.1 seconds, courtesy of its all-wheel-drive dual-motor traction. Even though the Dodge is equipped with Mickey Thompson drag radials, it falls short.
Advanced Technology at Play
"The Air’s traction control system adjusts power output up to 1,000 times per second on each rear wheel and on the front wheels individually, far surpassing the Dodge’s capabilities," said Cammisa. "This isn’t just RWD vs. AWD; it’s decades-old versus cutting-edge technology."
Second Venue, Same Result
The test moves to Famoso Drag Strip with VHT-added, non-street asphalt, where the Dodge’s tires should shine. However, the outcome remains unchanged. The Lucid Air Sapphire continues to dominate, consistently outperforming the Dodge Demon 170. The sheer disparity in performance makes it hard to watch.
Results Analysis
Ultimately, this drag race serves as proof that American automotive performance is transitioning away from gasoline. The future lies in electric power, and Dodge is already working on solutions to stay in the race.
For more automotive insights and updates, follow us on X at @automotivefyi, email us at tips@automotive.fyi, or visit our website, Automotive.fyi.
William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
