Updated: 28 November 2022
Generations: 4
First production year: 1969
Engines: Gasoline
Body style: Coupé (two-door)
DODGE Challenger 2015 - Present
Dodge continued to improve its muscle car coupe with the 2015 model. The modern iteration of the original 1971 Challenger is a tribute to the era when power and quarter mile runs were the keys to success for performance cars.
The new, facelifted, 2015 Dodge Challenger comes with a big, important improvement on the transmission sector where the older, 5-speed automatic transmission was replaced with a new, 8-speed ZF gearbox. In the engine compartment, there is a V6 and few V8 gasoline engines, with or without a supercharger.
The reintroduction of the Scat Pack with a naturally aspirated 6.4-liter V8 engine offers 485 hp and 644 Nm (475 lb.-ft) of torque. Dodge fans who are looking for the 5.7-liter Hemi engine, that one is offered on the R/T lineup with 375 hp and 556 Nm (410 lb.-ft) of torque. This version can be mated with a choice of two manual 6-speed transmissions or with an 8-speed automatic. If the optional Tremec 6-speed manual is chosen, then you can expect the acceleration from 0 to 60 mph (96 kph) to take less than 5 seconds.
The base engine was the 3.6-liter Pentastar engine, which offered 305 hp. The interior was heavily reworked and more technology was added, with the Uconnect Acces interface.
full description and technical specifications
gasoline engines:
DODGE Challenger 3.6 V6 8AT (309 HP)
DODGE Challenger 5.7 V8 6AT (380 HP)
DODGE Challenger 5.7 V8 8AT (380 HP)
DODGE Challenger 6.4 V8 6MT (492 HP)
DODGE Challenger 6.4 V8 8AT (492 HP)
DODGE Challenger 2010 - 2015
In 2010, Dodge made some modifications to the 2011 model-year Challenger, and one of the most important changes was the removal of the Ram badge, which has spun into a different brand.
Challenger was already a success, and Dodge enjoyed it. Yet, the competitors, Ford with its Mustang and the Camaro from Chevrolet, were inching in. So, there were a few modifications to be performed on the car and keep customers coming. After all, the financial crisis was over, and the car market was on an ascending trend.
At the front, the 2011 Challenger received an improved front fascia. While its quad-headlight system and fog lamps remained the same, the automaker created a new, trapezoidal-shaped air intake in the lower apron. From its sides, the 2011 Challenger offered an improved look. In addition, the mighty coupe came with more options for the wheels. Thus, while the SE came fitted with 18” alloys, the R/T version featured 20x8” wheels wearing 245/45R20 tires from Michelin.
Inside, the three-spoke steering wheel was new and created a racy atmosphere. In addition, Dodge moved the Electronic Vehicle Information Center to the center stack. Hence, it was easier to read and access by the driver. The seats were also bolstered even more than on the previous version, and a Nappa leather seating surface was on the options list.
In terms of drivetrain, the 2011 Challenger came with a completely new V6 that was lighter and more potent than the previous V6 powerplant. Nevertheless, the 5.7-liter Hemi was still on the list.
full description and technical specifications
gasoline engines:
DODGE Challenger 3.6L V6 VVT 5AT
DODGE Challenger 3.6L V6 VVT 6AT
DODGE Challenger 5.7L Hemi V8 6AT
DODGE Challenger 5.7L Hemi V8 6MT
DODGE Challenger 2007 - 2010
The classic battle of the pony-cars was complete when the Dodge Challenger Coupe appeared on the market to join the battle with Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro.
The retro-design era returned when Ford launched the Mustang and its sales went through the roof. Dodge came with a retro-design for the Charger but they were missing a coupe. So, they took out the Challenger name from the dusted shelf where it sat and revived it with glorious V8 engines under the hood in 2007 as a 2008 model. A year later, a small V6 came along to increase sales.
The retro design on the Challenger was a big hit. Its long hood, short cabin and even shorter rear deck for the trunk were in the right balance for the car dimensions. The four headlights were covered by the front fascia like some side-to-side eyebrows. The side beltline that started from the front was extended to the back, muscular shoulders of the rear fenders.
Inside the cabin, the driver could see the typical four-dials instrument cluster designed in a retro-style. The technological update came into the form of a better sound system. Like the old Challenger, the 2007 model didn't have any button on the steering-wheel fitted as standard.
Under the hood, there was a 3.5-liter V6 that started the lineup. It was good enough, but it was mated to a standard 4-speed automatic transmission. For manual transmissions and better automatic gearboxes, there were the SRT8 versions and more powerful special models. But, like at the beginning of the pony-car wars, each of them had a base, daily-driver, engine.
full description and technical specifications
gasoline engines:
DODGE Challenger 3.5L V6 4AT RWD (250 HP)
DODGE Challenger 3.6L V6 5AT RWD (309 HP)
DODGE Challenger 5.7L HEMI V8 5AT RWD (372 HP)
DODGE Challenger 5.7L HEMI V8 5AT RWD (377 HP)
DODGE Challenger 5.7L HEMI V8 6MT RWD (381 HP)
DODGE Challenger 1969 - 1974
It was one of the most important muscle cars of its era, even if, by some standards, it was a pony-car due to its short rear deck. Its performances made it a tough competitor on drag strips.
The legendary Challenger was introduced in 1969 as a 1970 model year. It was offered in different trims and with various engines. The car was based on the Plymouth Barracuda E-Body platform and shared some components with that one. But it had a very wide range of engines that offered between 105 and 375 hp. Its styling was unique and it was resembled by the third generation of the Challenger, in 2008.
From the outside, the big coupe featured a long hood, a cabin for four adults, and a big trunk under a short deck. The front fascia featured the unmistakable four-round headlights deep behind the hood's edge. In the center, the chromed inside rim of the grille was also a particular thing for the Challenger.
Inside, the front bucket seats offered some bolstering, but not enough by 2000's standards. They were good enough for straight-line acceleration. The instrument panel was placed in front of the driver with the tachometer right behind the steering wheel, in the center. On the left, there was the speedometer. The other three dials on the right side covered information about coolant temperature, oil pressure, fuel level, and, of course, the clock. A big clock into a nice round chromed rim. The gear stick was mounted on the floor and it was available either with a straight rod or with a “pistol-grip”.
The Challenger was offered with two inline-six engines and six V8s under the hood. The biggest one was a 7.2-liter. The disc brakes and the power steering were on the options list.
full description and technical specifications
gasoline engines:
DODGE Challenger 3.2L 3AT (105 HP)
DODGE Challenger 3.2L 3MT (105 HP)
DODGE Challenger 3.7L 3AT (145 HP)
DODGE Challenger 3.7L 3MT (145 HP)
DODGE Challenger 5.2L V8 3AT (230 HP)
DODGE Challenger 5.2L V8 3MT (230 HP)
DODGE Challenger 5.2L V8 4MT (230 HP)
DODGE Challenger 5.6L V8 3AT (275 HP)
DODGE Challenger 5.6L V8 3MT (275 HP)
DODGE Challenger 5.6L V8 4MT (275 HP)
DODGE Challenger 5.6L V8 4MT (290 HP)
DODGE Challenger 6.3L V8 3AT (290 HP)
DODGE Challenger 6.3L V8 3AT (330 HP)
DODGE Challenger 6.3L V8 3MT (330 HP)
DODGE Challenger 6.3L V8 4MT (330 HP)
DODGE Challenger 7.0L V8 3AT (425 HP)
DODGE Challenger 7.0L V8 4MT (425 HP)
DODGE Challenger 7.2L V8 3AT (375 HP)
DODGE Challenger 7.2L V8 4MT (375 HP)
FAQs
How many different Dodge Challengers are there? ›
The 2021 Dodge challenger is offered in 7 trim levels. SXT, GT, R/T, Scat Pack 392, Scat Pack 392 Widebody, SRT Hellcat Redeye, and SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody are the models on offer.
What model Challenger do I have? ›Look for the model designation in the front grill! All “regular” Challengers have the word “Challenger” written on the left side of the grill. The base SXT has nothing on the right side, but the GT, R/T, and R/T Scat Pack have their logos right there on the front.
What year is the most sought after Dodge Challenger? ›While numerous excellent models exist in the lineup, CoPilot settled on the 2015 version as the best year Dodge Challenger. To put it simply, the 2015 iteration marked the birth of a modern-day muscle car.
What is the difference in Dodge Challenger models? ›The 2022 Dodge Challenger has a whopping 7 different trim levels with the SXT, GT, R/T, R/T Scat Pack, SRT Hellcat, SRT Hellcat Redeye, and finally the SRT Super Stock finishing off the pack. The main difference between each of the seven trim levels is the engine that hides under the hood.
What does RT stand for Dodge? ›R/T stands for Road/Track and can be found on model configurations across the Dodge lineup. If you are looking for increased performance on the Orland Park roads an R/T model may be for you. Contact UsOur New R/T Inventory.
What is the best year for a classic Challenger? ›The first generation of the Challenger was released in 1970 and was produced through 1974. The 1970s are generally regarded to be some of the best, especially with the 426 Hemi.
What is the best Challenger engine? ›As the most menacing engine available in the Dodge lineup, the Supercharged 6.2L High-Output HEMI® V8 engine needs no introduction. This HEMI is available with 797 horsepower on the Hellcat Redeye models and 807 horsepower on the Challenger SRT® Super Stock and SRT Jailbreak—all standard with 707 pound-feet of torque.
What year Dodge Challenger is the fastest? ›A Dodge special-edition vehicle like none other, the 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 is the quickest vehicle ever produced in the brand's 100-plus-year history.
What is the most powerful version of the Dodge Challenger? ›The Most Powerful Muscle Car in the World: 1,025-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 Sets New Performance Benchmarks. Extensive component upgrades/features critical to harnessing the 1,025 horsepower include: Modified 3.0-liter supercharger features a larger snout with 105mm throttle body and 3.02-inch pulley.
What does RT shaker mean? ›Basically, the shaker, which is the air intake attached to the top of the engine, functions to force cool air to the engine, thus adding horsepower to the heart of this beast.
What does SRT stand for? ›
What does SRT stand for? Fiat Chrysler Automobiles originated the SRT division while conceptualizing the Dodge Viper. SRT stands for "Street and Racing Technology," and this division implemented innovative performance-driven technology across the Dodge, Jeep, and Chrysler lineups.
Is a RT faster than a GT? ›When compared to the GT, the R/T offers increased engine power for better acceleration, and its manual option provides more driver control.
What does Scat Pack stand for? ›The term Scat Pack was first coined dates back to advertising in the late 1960s. 'Scat' refers to the term scat, as in “Get out of here!”. The 'Pack' part comes from Frank Sinatra's Rat Pack. Now, it indicates our vehicles that can cover a quarter-mile in less than 14 seconds.
What is the oldest Dodge Challenger? ›The Dodge Challenger made its debut in the fall of 1969 as a 1970 model. While it shared Chrysler's “E-body” short-deck, long-hood platform with the third-generation Plymouth Barracuda, Dodge Challenger's wheelbase was two-inches longer, creating more interior space.
What challenger is faster than the demon? ›The creepy leprechaun blows past the SRT Demon's quarter-mile speed of 140 mph while descending to the Las Vegas debut. After a month of videos and several months of speculation, we are at the end of Dodge's teaser campaign.
Which is faster SRT or Challenger? ›The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye is the fastest muscle car on sale based on its 203 mph top speed,3 and the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye is the most powerful, fastest four-door mass-produced sedan of all time based on its horsepower and 203 mph top speed.
Are older challengers reliable? ›Almost all Challengers newer than the 2012 model year have a significantly better record of dependability. Moreover, the 2011 Challenger and even older model years did excellent in their own time, but since they've been on the road for over a decade, they might not be as reliable and robust as the newer ones.
What is the average age of a Challenger? ›The Average Dodge Challenger Buyer Is 51 Years Old, Still Younger Than Mustang And Camaro Customers | Carscoops.
What year was the 1st gen Challenger? ›First Generation (1969-1974)
The first generation models featured a longer wheelbase (110 in ches) and a more comfortable interior than many other 2-door convertibles of the time period. However, sales decreased dramatically after 1970 and Dodge discontinued the Challenger in 1974.
What is the best 2023 Dodge Challenger trim? If you're looking for a comfortable daily driver with a performance edge, the R/T is the best trim. It delivers Hemi V8 power, a sport-tuned suspension, and a massive selection of colors, options, and upgrades.
Which challenger is best on gas? ›
2021 Challenger MPG by Trim Level
Challenger GT: 19 city/ 30 highway MPG. Challenger R/T: 15 city/ 23 highway MPG. Challenger R/T Scat Pack: 14 city/ 23 highway MPG. Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody: 14 city/ 23 highway MPG.
The word "hemi" is a shortening of the word "hemispherical," and as it relates to engines, means a type of engine that has a hemispherically shaped combustion chamber. It's the same thing that is meant in geography when referencing the Earth, which is split into two hemispheres, north and south.
What muscle car has the most horsepower? ›The Most Powerful Muscle Car in the World: 1,025 Horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 Sets New Performance Benchmarks.
What is the fastest Dodge 0 60? ›The Dodge Demon 170 is the fastest accelerating and quickest production car money can buy. As a reference point, the Demon had 840 hp and 770 lb-ft of torque on E85, ran the quarter mile in 9.65 seconds at 140 mph, pulled 1.8 g during acceleration, and posted a 0-60 mph time of 2.3 seconds.
What is the fastest street legal car? ›1. Bugatti Chiron Super Sport — 304.7 MP. The top spot for the world's fastest supercar goes to Bugatti.
Which is faster RT or Scat Pack? ›On the R/T, the 5.7L HEMI 'Eagle' V8 engine makes 370 hp and has a torque output of 395 lb-ft. The Scat Pack makes use of a larger 6.4L HEMI 'Apache' V8 (better known as the 392) that makes more power and torque than the R/T model. The power output of this engine stands at 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque.
Which is faster Scat Pack or SRT? ›Is Scat Pack the Same as Hellcat? The Scat Pack with 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque is no match versus the 707 hp of the SRT Hellcat, which provides a quarter-time of 10.96 seconds. The Scat Pack can go through a quarter-mile at a top speed of 115 mph only in 12.40 seconds.
Is a 392 faster than a Scat Pack? ›The short answer is the Scat Pack is slightly faster than the 392. It's a tiny difference considering that both the 392 and the Scat Pack have the same type of engine and horsepower. They also almost weigh the same as well. Both can accelerate up to 60 mph in about 4.2 seconds.
Which is faster a Hellcat or a Scat Pack? ›Which is faster, the Hellcat or the Scat Pack? The Hellcat is faster than the Scat Pack. The Scat Pack makes 485 horsepower, while the Hellcat makes 717 horsepower (or 797 horsepower as the wicked Hellcat Redeye).
Which is better Scat or SRT? ›Because the cars are similar in performance, it's best to go with your gut or preferences. If you're looking for a high-quality interior and stronger overall aesthetics, then an SRT will do the job. But if you want to save money and pick cloth seats, look no further than a Scat Pack.
What's better RT or SRT? ›
This is an easy question to answer: the SRT model wins this contest by a mile! This model can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, much faster than what you get with the RT (4.3 seconds). The same goes for its quarter-mile time, 11.0 seconds at 125 mph versus the RT's 12.1 seconds at 111 mph.
Why is the Scat Pack logo a bee? ›Concerning the Scat Pack logo itself, it was a redesign of the preexisting emblem for the Dodge Super Bee, albeit slightly altered. With all of the bee-themed muscle cars, Dodge added the Scat Pack to a collective known as 'The Hive.
What was the original Scat Pack? ›The original Scat Pack consisted of the Charger R/T, Coronet R/T, Dart GTS, and later the Coronet-based Super Bee. With the help of the Ross Roy advertising agency, the name was created as a marketing term and campaign to tout the power and performance credentials of Dodge's ferocious crew.