Car Auction To Benefit Arc, Habitat

AVON PARK - A limited edition 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 that is retro in appearance to Dodge's pony car of the early 1970s will be auctioned next month at Wells Dodge Chrysler in Avon Park.

The Hemi Orange Challenger on display in the Wells showroom is just one of only 6,400 vehicles manufactured in the world. It is the only SRT8 the Avon Park dealership will receive.

Stanley Wells, president of the company, said there are approximately 4,000 Dodge dealers in the United States. Each dealer will receive one SRT8 model, with some of the larger dealers getting a few more.

Due to the fact the car is a limited edition model and is in high demand, Wells decided in order to be fair and impartial, an auction would be held with the car going to the highest bidder.

What makes this auction different is that every dollar over the sticker price will go to local charities. The two nonprofit organizations chosen are Highlands County Habitat for Humanity and Ridge Area Arc.

Wells said in a press release "these worthy organizations were chosen because they will help keep the dollars in our community, benefiting all of us."

The list price and starting bid for the car is $42,779. It is equipped with the optional power sunroof, MyGIG Multimedia System with GPS Navigation and 245/45ZR20-25545ZR20 performance tires, Mopar wheel locks and appearance package.

The auction will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 24. Only registered bidders will be allowed to participate, and the deadline to register is July 18.

Registration forms will be available at the dealership, 1600 U.S. 27 S., between 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday.