How much horsepower does a 5.7 L V-8 Challenger have?

The Dodge Challenger's 5.7-liter Hemi V8 typically delivers about 375 horsepower (SAE net), with early and certain model-year versions rated closer to 372 horsepower depending on tuning and equipment.

Challenger buyers often care about not just horsepower but overall performance, including torque, transmission, and drivetrain. The 5.7L Hemi has evolved through the Challenger's generations, while remaining a cornerstone of its muscle-car character. Below is a look at the typical horsepower figures by model year and some factors that can influence the number you see on a window sticker or a dyno sheet.

Horsepower by model year and trim

Figures here reflect common, widely cited specs for the Challenger's 5.7 L Hemi in recent generations. Exact horsepower can vary by market, calibration, and equipment such as transmission choice. Use official spec sheets for your specific vehicle to confirm.

• 2009–2010 Challenger R/T (5.7 L Hemi): 372 horsepower (SAE net) and 400 lb-ft of torque.


• 2011–2014 Challenger R/T: 372 horsepower (SAE net) and 400 lb-ft of torque; some brochures and sources later cited up to 375 hp due to slight tuning changes.


• 2015–2023 Challenger R/T: 375 horsepower (SAE net) and 410 lb-ft of torque.

The above figures illustrate typical values you would see on manufacturer data sheets or window stickers for these model years. The presence of an automatic vs manual transmission, and other options can influence the exact reported horsepower in a given vehicle.

Factors that can affect horsepower

Horsepower is just part of the performance picture. Several factors can influence the actual horsepower a Challenger displays on a dyno or in testing, even among cars with the same engine.

• Transmission choice (manual vs automatic) and gear ratios can impact measured horsepower and the way it is delivered to the wheels.


• Engine tuning, MDS operation, and emissions equipment can alter peak output at the engine.


• Fuel quality and octane level, as well as altitude and ambient temperature, affect performance.


• Engine wear, maintenance history, and intake/exhaust condition can change power outputs over time.


• Model year and market (U.S. vs international) can have slightly different calibration and rating figures.

Ultimately, if you want to confirm the exact horsepower for your specific Challenger, check the window sticker (Monroney label) or the official FCA/Chrysler/Dodge spec sheet for your VIN, and consider a dyno test for real-world numbers.

Bottom line

For most Challenger buyers and drivers, a 5.7 L V-8 Challenger produces about 375 horsepower in modern configurations, with earlier models commonly rated at 372 horsepower. If you want more power out of a Dodge muscle car, options include larger displacement engines like the 6.4 L Hemi (392) or a forced-induction setup.

Summary

Answer: The 5.7 L V-8 Challenger typically delivers around 375 horsepower (SAE net), with a common early figure of 372 horsepower depending on year and specification. Always verify the exact rating for your specific vehicle through official documentation or a dyno test.

How much horsepower does a 5.7 Challenger V8 have?

The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine in a Dodge Challenger R/T produces 375 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, according to Northgate Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. This is the standard V8 engine for the R/T model.
 
This video reviews the Dodge Challenger's 5.7L V8 engine and its performance: 57sAutoTopNLYouTube · Mar 12, 2024

• Horsepower: 375375375 hp 
• Torque: 410410410 lb-ft 
• Standard equipment: The 5.7L HEMI is standard on the Challenger R/T model. 
• Fuel economy: The engine is equipped with fuel saver technology (MDS) to improve efficiency. 
• Transmission: It can be paired with either an eight-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. 

What's better, 5.7 or 6.4 HEMI?

The main differences are that the 6.4L Hemi has more power, torque, and is more expensive, while the 5.7L Hemi is more affordable, fuel-efficient, and is often considered easier to modify for high-performance applications like forced induction. The 6.4L provides a significant performance boost from the factory, whereas the 5.7L offers a good starting point for those who want to build up their engine over time.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the power difference between the 5.7L and 6.4L Hemi engines: 59s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Jan 16, 2025
6.4L Hemi

• Performance: More horsepower and torque, with a noticeable power advantage in the lower RPM range, making it feel quicker for daily driving and towing. 
• Cost: Higher initial purchase price, potentially higher insurance, and requires premium fuel. 
• Modifications: Can be more difficult to add significant power through forced induction (like a turbo or supercharger) without upgrading internal components like pistons, as the stock internals are not as robust for this type of modification as the 5.7L's. 

5.7L Hemi

• Performance: Adequate power for daily driving, but less powerful than the 6.4L from the factory. 
• Cost: Lower purchase price, better fuel economy, and less expensive to insure. 
• Modifications: Often considered a better platform for those who plan to heavily modify the engine, especially with forced induction, due to its internal components handling boost better in stock form. 

This video explains why some people choose the 5.7L Hemi over the 6.4L: 57sMopar MotorsportsYouTube · Jan 21, 2022
Which should you choose?

• Choose the 6.4L if: You want the most power and performance right out of the factory, can afford the higher initial cost and fuel expenses, and don't plan on heavy engine modifications. 
• Choose the 5.7L if: You are on a tighter budget, prioritize fuel economy, and are considering engine modifications (like adding a supercharger) later on. 

Is the 5.7 L V8 Hemi a good engine?

The 5.7L Hemi is generally considered a good engine, especially for its power, torque, and ability to last a long time with proper maintenance. However, it is prone to certain issues like exhaust manifold leaks and can be sensitive to maintenance, especially with oil changes and avoiding excessive idle time. 
You can watch this video to learn more about the 5.7L Hemi engine's performance and fuel economy: 51sGetty's GarageYouTube · Oct 15, 2023
Pros

• Strong power and torque: It's known for producing good usable torque and horsepower, making it great for towing and acceleration. 
• Longevity: With meticulous maintenance, the engine can last for 300,000 miles or more. 
• Good fuel economy for its class: While not a fuel-sipper, it can achieve surprisingly decent fuel mileage for a large V8, especially on the highway. 

Cons

• Exhaust manifold leaks: A common issue is broken exhaust manifold studs, which cause a ticking noise that is often most noticeable when the engine is cold. 
• Lifter and cam issues: Some years experienced problems with the valvetrain, including lifter failure, leading to a distinct "Hemi tick" that doesn't go away. 
• Maintenance sensitivity: The engine requires regular oil changes and can be susceptible to oil sludge if neglected or overheated. 
• City fuel economy: Fuel economy can be poor in stop-and-go city driving. 

What to consider

• Year matters: Some years are known to be more reliable than others. Researching specific model years is recommended. 
• Maintenance history is key: A well-maintained Hemi is a great engine. Check for complete service records before purchasing a used vehicle. A pre-purchase inspection is also advised. 
• Maintenance costs: Repairs, like fixing the exhaust manifold, can be expensive. Factor these potential costs into your budget. 

Which one is faster, GT or RT?

The R/T is significantly faster than the GT because the R/T is typically equipped with a more powerful V8 engine, while the GT uses a V6. For example, a Dodge Charger R/T with a V8 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 4.7 seconds, whereas the V6-powered Charger GT takes around 5.9 seconds. 
This video compares the 0-60 mph times of a Challenger GT and a Challenger RT: 47sRacerXYouTube · Oct 18, 2020

• R/T: Features a V8 engine, offering more horsepower and torque, resulting in faster acceleration. 
• GT: Features a V6 engine, providing a balance of power and fuel efficiency, but is slower than the V8-powered R/T. 

You can watch this video to see a comparison between a Mustang GT and a Challenger RT: 51sXcelerateYouTube · Jul 9, 2023