Jeff Dunham Pops Wheelies in Dodge SRT Demon 170 with Salvaggio Design
While millions of people know comedian, ventriloquist and actor Jeff Dunham, they might be unaware he’s a certified car guy with an impressive collection assembled over the years.
“It all started with Hot Wheels,” Dunham explained in the latest video from muscle car builder, Dave Salvaggio. The latest addition to the Dunham collection is the Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 – the final edition of the Hemi-powered hot rods from Dodge, boasting 1025hp.
Dunham owns car # 0013, which is the same number as the original Demon in his collection. “How do you resist having something like this?” Dunham reasoned.
After purchasing a 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170, owners can specify a number of customized, limited-edition, serialized items that are linked to the VIN number of each vehicle. Among the complimentary items available through the Dodge//SRT Concierge team is a custom decanter set, personalized badging, car cleaning products, and even a two-day drag racing class.
Owners wishing to take their Demon 170 to the track also have exclusive access to a number of optional performance parts, which were engineered and fabricated by Direct Connection. And with all the parts fitted to Dunham’s car, Dave Salvaggio invited the comedian to Irwindale Speedway near Los Angeles, allowing him to understand the vehicle’s dynamics and performance. “It’s a massively powerful car and drivers need to know how to use it safely and under control to get the maximum fun from their Demon 170.”
“We prepped the eighth-mile track and Jeff was doing wheelies almost immediately!” Salvaggio continued.“Wheelies are a characteristic of the Demon models but it’s vital drivers are prepared for it and able to control the car for their own safety and the safety of others,” Dave continued.
Among the extra equipment fitted was the Direct Connection Parachute Mounting Kit and Pistol Grip Parachute Release. Required because of the Demon 170’s phenomenal performance potential, the Simpson parachute itself is available directly from Salvaggio Design, along with the seatbelt harnesses. Both carry the Demon logo and are not available from Direct Connection. However, a Harness Bar can be purchased from Direct Connection, fitting to the interior rollcage without any drilling or cutting, providing a solid anchor for the harnesses.
The final addition was the Direct Connection Rear Seat Delete Carbon Fiber Closeout Panels. The package consisted of pre-preg carbon fiber pieces that reduce weight and improve the aesthetics of the rear seat area. Salvaggio custom-painted Dunham’s rear panel with Demon artwork, creating a unique appearance.
“You can’t describe it – you’ve got to be in it!” Dunham proclaimed after his track time. “It’s a just massive amount of power. What adds to it is the sound and the feel and the smell.”
With his Demon 170 fully equipped to dominate the drag strip, and the driver prepared to launch hard enough to pop the front wheels in the air, Dunham will never be late for his stand-up comedy shows!
All owners of the Dodge SRT Demon 170 can obtain the same parts for their car by visiting dodgegarage.com/demon-170-owner-info. Owners wishing to obtain the parachute and harnesses should contact Salvaggio Design via salvaggiodesign.com.