The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

'HEMI(R) Power' Exhibit Celebrates Engine's Past/Future At Walter P. Chrysler Museum


Chrysler Hemi Exhibit
DaimlerChrysler Vehicle Collection Administrator Brandt Rosenbusch, left, and Restoration Specialist Dean Reifsnider, remove the hood of a 1967 Dodge Coronet to expose the vehicle's 426 HEMI (R) engine in preparation for 'HEMI Power'

Chrysler Hemi Exhibit
Dean Reifsnider, DaimlerChrysler restoration specialist, positions a 392 HEMI (R) engine among the classic vehicles assembled for 'HEMI Power'

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Nov. 13, 2002; "HEMI® Power," a special exhibition celebrating 50-plus years of the engine that still sets performance standards, roars into the Walter P. Chrysler Museum in Auburn Hills on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Running through March 3, 2003, the exhibit showcases every variation of the HEMI's thunderous evolution through free-standing engine displays and HEMI-powered classic cars including Chrysler 300s of the 1950s, 1960s era drag racers, muscle cars, custom vehicles and hot rods.

Among the more than 30 legendary vehicles included in the display are:

  • 1933 Plymouth Hot Rod Coupe
  • 1940 Willys Custom Coupe
  • 1952 Pan-Am Saratoga
  • 1953 Cunningham C4RK
  • Don Garlits' '53 "Swamp Rat"
  • Wally Parks' '57 Plymouth Savoy
  • Dave Strickler's '65 A/FX
  • 1966 Dodge Charger "Lawman"
  • 1967 "Silver Bullet"
  • 1968 Barracuda Super Stock
  • 1969 Plymouth Road Runner
  • 1972 Dodge Charger USAC Car

The exhibition will also highlight the 2003 3500 and 1500 Dodge Ram powered by the all-new 5.7 liter HEMI Magnum V-8 engine. DaimlerChrysler's newest HEMI features state-of-the-art materials, electronics and manufacturing technology that offers class-leading performance -- 345 bhp, 365 lb.-ft. torque, towing and acceleration -- and heavy-duty "Ram tough" durability.

The new 5.7 liter HEMI shares a proud performance and racing heritage with past HEMI engines, celebrated for their superior horsepower, torque, reliability and longevity.

Boss Chrysler's Garage, in the museum's lower level, will house "HEMI Power." In addition to special exhibitions, the garage regularly features a revolving display of powerful performance vehicles. The main and upper levels of the 55,000 square foot museum feature permanent exhibits highlighting DaimlerChrysler's American heritage -- spotlighting engineering firsts and design milestones -- as well as the automaker's impact on American culture. In all, the Walter P. Chrysler Museum showcases more than 65 vehicles, along with interactive displays and historical exhibits.

The museum's 125-seat theater features three continuously running movies including "Speed and Power," which highlights the corporation's performance vehicle breakthroughs. The main level gift shop is brimming with souvenirs and exclusive and hard-to-find collectibles, including merchandise from Mopar's muscle car era.

The Walter P. Chrysler Museum is located at the corner of Featherstone and Squirrel Roads on DaimlerChrysler's North American headquarters campus in Auburn Hills. The museum is accessible from exit 78 (Chrysler Drive) off I-75.

Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for seniors (62 and older) and children (6 - 12). Museum hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.

Call 888-456-1924 or 248-944-0001 for more information.

Make Your Opinion Count - Click Here