Leno needs another car -- the first Dodge Challenger SRT8

Jay Leno has become the first owner of a 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8. Last Monday (June 2), he drove his own 1970 Challenger to Valley Dodge in Van Nuys, California, to pick up his new ride (MSRP: $37,320), resplendent in a black paint job. “I can’t believe he didn’t light up the tires as he drove out of the dealership,” said Dodge’s Howard Teasley. “Leno showed more self-control than I would.”

Self-control seems to be just one of Leno’s virtues. As a well-known avid gearhead and car collector (his automotive acquistions can be seen on www.jaylenosgarage.com, his General Motors-sponsored website), his influence in the car world is considerable. As one Dodge representative said: “It’s kind of like the automotive equivalent of being chosen by Oprah’s book club.”

The new Challenger SRT8 has also been hob-nobbing with other members of the ‘Rich and Famous’ club. Dodge recently arranged a track day at Willow Springs International Raceway, up near Rosamund, California. Among the attendees were Snoop Dogg, Carmen Electra, David Spade, Luke Wilson, Jaime Pressly and Rob Lowe, most of whom have expressed an interest in purchasing said 425-horsepower muscle car.

“We had so many inquiries from people in Hollywood about buying a new Challenger that we decided to organize a little event,” says Dodge’s Mike Accavitti. “It’s great when you have something people really want.” Amen to that.

-- Colin Ryan

Photos: Chrysler

Comments

[Eric McGinnis]

Good ole Jay buying a Monument to The american car companies failures. It gets a whopping 13 mpg.. He'll be getting foreclosed on in 2024 just like old Eddie Mac is today.

[rjr]

In 1970 this was a cool car. Now it is an exercise in showing how poorly Chrysler can build what we need versus what men in need ot reinforcement need.

[Dan]

Jay Leno is the only rich guy who spends his money exactly like how I would if I was rich. There is a guy who really enjoys his life.

[matt]

stop being so sour people, you guys are such conformists. so what if he wants another car, people do all kinds of things with their money to make themselves happy. if you are too jealous or too much of a hall monitor just go live in venezuela.

[Joseph]

That's unlikely, Eric. Jay Leno has a LOT of money saved...he only spends the money he earns from standup gigs performed around the country. The dozens of millions of dollars he's earned since hosting The Tonight Show has been sitting in savings, earning interest, so whenever he does finally retire, he'll have well over $100 million for his golden years. Jay and Mavis will live like kings and queens for the rest of their lives.

[wvernon]

Another American car hater, how original. I can only imagine the chills that run up and down your spine when you hammer down on your Prius. If only everyone could be just like you...