I did my part:
Around when the search... urge... started: https://gbodyforum.com/threads/hellcat-shopping.64006/ Why I ultimately bought one: https://gbodyforum.com/threads/olds-lives-matter-fun-starts-on-page-13-was-am-i-selling-out-or-buying-in.74270/ My new money pit. Detailed write-up eventually. Pics...
gbodyforum.com
I knew it would be rare, but not
this rare. You haven't been able to order one with a stick for two model years now. Two (known) test mules were built and released in 2021.
The article is correct about some things, inaccurate about others. The analogue vs. digital argument is more complex than looking at it through 2022's lens.
The digitization of cars has been going on for 40 years. Early EFI was crap, late-90s to early 2000s was perfection (reliability and DBC), now they are over assisted. ABS, power steering, traction control, active suspension, etc all come with pros and cons.
My stick 91 Turbo Sundance was pure analogue less the EFI. And my T5'd 91 Z28 was the same less the TPI. Those were great driving experiences.
The ability to turn the nannies off (or over ride them) or way way way down to regain a visceral driving experience is critical today. Dodge was the most inviting of all manufacturers in this regard until they couldn't make their CAFE numbers.
I really want to get a C5 Z06 and do a DBC conversion. It might be the perfect car never made. Otherwise, give me a stripper LS1 Camaro with an M6. Hard to believe they are over two decades old now.
Maybe I am just getting old...
...no, it's the children who are wrong.