With the success of last year’s model, Dodge has released 100 more Track Pak Challengers for the 2010 model year. Built to compete in the NHRA Stock, Super Stock and Comp Eliminator classes this track-only model is powered by Mopar’s 6.1-liter HEMI V8 and comes with either a five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual. Offered exclusively in Stone White and in Stock Eliminator trim, the best part of the Track Pak is that it weighs just 3,200 lbs.

In order to get down to that weight, the Track Pak model includes Viper-style seats, polycarbonate door windows, a lift-off composite hood, manual steering, special light-weight front brakes and a special cable-operated throttle linkage and pedal assembly.

Pricing for the Drag Pak is set at $39,999, but with just 100 units available you had to submit an application, available at www.mopar.com or call the Mopar Direct Connection Tech Line at 888-528-HEMI (4363).

Official release after the jump:

After the success of Ford’s 2008 Mustang Cobra Jet, the company has announced plans to bring back the factory drag racer using the new 2010 platform.

The new model will use a 425hp supercharged 5.4-liter V8 direct from the Ford Racing Performance Parts catalog. Ford also plans to make another engine available, with an aluminum block and 475hp. A six-speed manual transmission (the same found in the ‘08 model) will be standard equipment, however, there will be an option to upgrade to a 5-speed Liberty manual unit or a race-spec auto-box.

In addition, the Cobra Jet will get an NHRA certified roll cage and lightweight racing brakes.

“I’ve said from my first day in this job that I wanted Ford Racing to continue to be a ‘racer-friendly’ organization,” said Ford Racing boss Brian Wolfe. “That’s why we take great pride in being one of only two car companies worldwide that builds ready-to-race cars and sells them as part of our performance parts offerings.”

The 2010 Cobra Jet comes hot on the heels of the 2008 model (pictured above), which was created to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the original.

Only 50 Cobra Jets will be built, the exact number required by the NHRA in order for the vehicles to run in the series.

Pricing is expected to be in the $75,000 range with production in the Fall for delivery early 2010.

Official release after the jump:

This past weekend Banks Power set yet another world record for diesel-powered drag racers by running a 7.7708 second pass at 180.00 mph in the Banks Sidewinder S-10.

The Banks Sidewinder is the first ever diesel pickup truck to hit the 180 mph mark in the quarter-mile, a feat which took place at the NHRDA Desert Diesel Nationals at the Speedworld Dragstrip in Wittman, Arizona with Wes Anderson behind the wheel.

Powered by a twin-turbo 6.6-liter GM Duramax V8 engine, the Banks Sidewinder uses a Nitrous Oxide system in place of an intercooling setup, which is controlled by a proprietary Banks controller to ensure the flow of Nitrous to the engine is as efficient as possible and the combustion temperatures are ideal.

Banks also designed a specific ECU for the Sidewinder, which will be adapted for use in the company’s Marine Engines. Several other technologies and techniques used on the record setting pickup will be put in place in Banks’ Top Diesel Dragster soon.