Before the new Jeep Wrangler was unveiled, they teased us with interesting specs. One of the most intriguing was that the engine bay is large enough to fit a HEMI V8. This makes sense to offer room for all possible engines, but rumors were quickly squashed by the overlords at Fiat-Chrysler. The notion of a V8 Jeep Wrangler was too scary for their legal team, as it would be incredibly overpowered. That’s why our friend John Hennessey stepped up to the challenge. After almost a year in development, the Hennessey Maximus 1000 is the ultimate Jeep Gladiator.
Inspired by Russel Crowe’s character from the film Gladiator, the name is appropriate. The Jeep Gladiator combines the praticality of a 4-door with the utility of a truck bed. From the factory it is powered by the 3.6L Pentastar V6. It is ironic that this engine is older than the Roman empire, and it is built by an Italian owned company.
That is why Hennessey Performance starts by sending the V6 to the scrap pile. In its place goes a 1,000 horsepower Hellcat HEMI. It sends 933 lb-ft of torque to an upgraged 8-speed automatic. The Maximus front and rear bumpers are powder coated for long life, and they have integrated LED lights. BFG offroad tires are mounted on Hennessey 20″ wheels, and they are bolted to a 6″ suspension lift.
A new fuel system, cooling system, radiator, fans, and stainless exhaust complete the package. Only 24 examples will be built, and each will be backed by a 3 year/36k warranty. The retail price of $200,000 includes the new Jeep shipped from the factory to Hennessey Headquarters in Sealy, TX. It also includes an interior of your choice and several other pleasantries. Click the link below for all the info and stay with us for all your Hennessey Performance updates.
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