The Dodge Challenger SRT8 has graced the cover of just about every major automotive rag these past couple months, and muscle car-loving Baby-Boomers are emptying their 401Ks for the chance to own one. If your budget can't take the blow of a $40,000 coupe, however, the folks at Chrysler have debuted a couple more models at the 2008 New York Auto Show that will cost quite a bit less. The Challenger R/T will take the stage later today in NYC and it offers a good portion of the SRT8's power, as well as nearly every design cue seen on its more expensive big brother. Dodge is also unveiling the base SE model (right) for those who want a good looking RWD coupe on a budget.

Since the SRT model was unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show over a month ago, we already know a lot about the Challenger in general. For the R/T model, the real story lies under its hood where an upgraded 5.7L Hemi V8 engine has received a 30-hp bump to 370 ponies, while torque also increases by eight to 398 pound-feet. Opt for the new pistol grip six-speed manual tranny – a first for any LX-platform model – and power jumps to 375 hp and 404 pound-feet of torque at 4,200 rpm, but premium fuel is recommended if you want that third pedal.