The world of custom car building has seen many remarkable creations, but few have captured the imagination quite like “TUSK,” the 1969 Dodge Charger meticulously reimagined by the legendary Ringbrothers. Originally unveiled in 2023, this stunning remastering of a classic muscle car has since become a benchmark in automotive craftsmanship and design. Let’s take a closer look at what makes TUSK an extraordinary blend of classic American muscle and modern engineering.
The Heart of the Beast: The Hellephant Engine
At the core of TUSK is the formidable Hellephant engine, a supercharged 426 cubic inch (7.0-liter) V8 that delivers a jaw-dropping 1,000 horsepower. Limited to just 100 units, this crate engine is one of Mopar’s most powerful creations, making it a fitting centerpiece for a car as iconic as the Charger. The Hellephant’s 950 ft-lbs of torque are channeled to the rear wheels through a Bowler TREMEC T-56 Magnum six-speed manual transmission, ensuring that every ounce of power is harnessed for an exhilarating driving experience.
The engine is mounted 2.5 inches further back against a custom-built firewall, improving weight distribution and enhancing the car’s handling. The all-aluminum Hemi rests beneath a custom two-piece carbon-fiber hood, complete with billet machined hood scoop grilles, adding both form and function to this masterpiece.
Ringbrothers’ Craftsmanship on Full Display
Ringbrothers are renowned for their attention to detail, and TUSK is a testament to their craftsmanship. The Charger’s iconic front end has been reimagined with a one-piece exposed carbon-fiber surround, accented by a single piece of billet machined chrome trim that frames the “blind-eye” grille. The custom-designed front valance and chin spoiler, along with the tucked and narrowed front and rear bumpers, enhance the car’s aggressive stance.
Every panel on TUSK has been thoughtfully modified, from the reshaped and extended rear quarter end caps to the new door skins and extended rocker panels. Even the windshield cowl vents have been removed to create a cleaner, more streamlined profile. A custom belly pan, lower rear valance, and driveline tunnel further distinguish TUSK as a truly unique creation.
“The Charger’s ‘coke-bottle’ body is the perfect canvas to push the limits of what we can do and showcase our in-house talent and capabilities,” said Jim Ring, co-owner of Ringbrothers. “TUSK took over 5,000 hours to complete and is a radical rethink of the classic Charger, marrying the aesthetics of a 20th-century icon with the rigorous build quality and signature touches Ringbrothers has become renowned for.”
A Modern Aesthetic with Classic Roots
The BASF Glasurit “Black to the Future” paint finish on TUSK is a perfect complement to the Charger’s muscular proportions. This deep black hue, accented with contrasting gold elements, gives the car an intimidating presence that commands attention. The extended wheelbase, achieved by moving the front wheels forward by two inches, not only enhances the car’s stance but also improves handling.
The custom Roadster Shop FAST TRACK chassis, combined with Fox RS SV coilovers at all four corners, ensures that TUSK delivers dynamic performance on par with its aggressive looks. Stopping power is provided by Baer Brakes Extreme 6S six-piston calipers, while machined billet side vents in the front fenders help dissipate brake heat. TUSK rides on bespoke Ringbrothers “TUSK” Edition HRE Wheels, wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, further cementing its status as a performance icon.
Interior Excellence: Where Modern Meets Classic
Inside, TUSK is just as meticulously crafted as its exterior. The cabin features a custom leather interior with a carbon-fiber console, and a custom carbon-fiber “pistol grip” shifter—a nod to Mopar’s rich heritage. Upholstery Unlimited tailored the bespoke interior, which includes modern conveniences such as a Gentex rearview mirror, Dakota Digital gauges, and a Vintage Air Gen IV climate-control system, ensuring that the driving experience is as comfortable as it is thrilling.
“Performance and design shaped this build. It really shows what can be accomplished when cutting-edge techniques work in tandem with painstaking levels of detail and imagination,” said Mike Ring, co-owner of Ringbrothers. “The second-gen Charger is one of those cars that’s so iconic as the zenith of American muscle car styling and performance, and that’s what we set out to replicate with this build.”
The Details That Define TUSK
- Engine: Supercharged 426 Hemi “Hellephant” – 1,000 HP
- Transmission: Bowler TREMEC T-56 Magnum
- Suspension: Roadster Shop FAST TRACK with Independent Rear
- Exhaust: Custom Ringbrothers Exhaust with One-Off Machined Tips
- Brakes: Baer Brakes Extreme 6S Six-Piston Calipers
- Wheels: Ringbrothers “TUSK” Edition HRE Wheels
- Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S – 19″x10.5″ Front, 20″x13″ Rear
- Paint: BASF Glasurit Waterborne – Black to the Future (WA8555 GM Black)
TUSK is more than just a car; it’s a masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of the 1969 Dodge Charger while pushing the boundaries of what is possible in modern automotive design. With its blend of classic styling, modern engineering, and unparalleled craftsmanship, TUSK is a shining example of why Ringbrothers continues to lead the way in the world of custom car building.
Source: Ringbrothers
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