How much horsepower does a 5.7 L V8 Challenger have?

The 5.7 L Hemi V8 in the Challenger typically produces about 375 horsepower, with roughly 410 lb-ft of torque, though exact figures vary by model year and tuning.

Across its production run, Dodge refined the engine and updated ratings to reflect modern testing standards. This article outlines the official horsepower figures by year and explains what factors can influence the numbers you see on a door sticker or in a test.

Power output by model year

The following list summarizes the common official horsepower figures assigned to the 5.7 L Hemi in Challenger RT variants over successive years.

• 2009–2010: 372 horsepower


• 2011–2014: 372 horsepower


• 2015–2019: 375 horsepower


• 2020–2023: 375 horsepower

These figures reflect the engine’s SAE net horsepower ratings, which account for modern accessories and emissions systems. Real-world output can vary slightly due to testing conditions, altitude, and drivetrain configuration.

Notes on measurement and context

Horsepower ratings are one piece of the performance picture. Real-world acceleration also depends on weight, gearing, traction, and aerodynamics. In everyday driving, the 5.7 L Hemi’s strength lies in torque delivery and driveability, not just peak horsepower.

In summary, a modern Challenger with the 5.7 L V8 typically sits around 375 horsepower, with historical figures hovering near 372 horsepower in earlier years. The engine remains a defining feature of the Challenger RT lineup.

Summary

The 5.7 L V8 Challenger has maintained a consistent horsepower range across its production, typically about 372–375 hp, with torque around 410 lb-ft. Variations arise from model year updates, testing standards, and specific configurations, but the engine continues to be a hallmark of the Challenger’s performance.

What's better, 5.7 or 6.4 HEMI?

The 6.4L Hemi is better for raw power, while the 5.7L Hemi is a better choice for those prioritizing lower cost and better modification potential. The 6.4L provides significantly more horsepower and torque out of the factory, leading to better performance, whereas the 5.7L is cheaper to buy and is a more robust platform for modifications like forced induction. 
6.4L Hemi

• Performance: Offers substantially more horsepower (485 hp vs. 375 hp) and torque (475 lb-ft vs. 410 lb-ft) from the factory, providing a more powerful driving experience with quicker acceleration. 
• Factory Features: Vehicles with the 6.4L engine, like the Scat Pack, often come standard with performance-tuned suspension and steering. 
• Cost: Significantly higher initial purchase price, leading to higher monthly payments and insurance costs. 
• Modifications: Is more sensitive to forced induction modifications due to its higher compression ratio and piston design. It is generally considered less ideal for building extreme power levels without internal upgrades. 

This video compares the performance of the 6.4L and 5.7L Hemi engines: 52sInnoV8YouTube · Oct 22, 2018
5.7L Hemi

• Cost: Lower initial purchase price, making it more affordable upfront. 
• Modifications: Better suited for modifications, particularly forced induction setups, as its stock internal components are more resilient to higher boost levels (like superchargers). The lower initial cost can be reinvested into performance upgrades over time. 
• Reliability: The 5.7L is a well-established and reliable platform. 
• Performance: While still a powerful V8, it is significantly less powerful than the 6.4L in stock form and requires considerable investment to match the 6.4L's performance level. 

This video discusses why people choose the 5.7L Hemi over the 6.4L Hemi: 59sR/T LifeYouTube · May 1, 2017
Which is right for you?

• Choose the 6.4L Hemi if you want the most power and a premium performance experience right out of the box and are willing to pay more for it. 
• Choose the 5.7L Hemi if you are on a tighter budget, enjoy modifying engines, or want to build a custom, high-performance vehicle over time. 

Which one is faster, GT or RT?

The R/T is generally faster than the GT. In Dodge vehicles like the Charger and Challenger, the R/T is typically equipped with a more powerful V8 engine, while the GT usually comes with a less powerful V6 engine, giving the R/T the advantage in acceleration. For example, a Charger R/T can reach 0−600 minus 600−60 mph in about 4.74.74.7 seconds, while a Charger GT takes around 5.95.95.9 seconds. 

• Dodge GT: Typically uses a V6 engine, making it a balanced option for daily driving but less powerful than the R/T. 
• Dodge R/T: Features a V8 engine that provides more horsepower and torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and a more classic muscle car performance feel. 
• Example: The Mustang GT can be faster than the Challenger R/T in some aspects, but this is not consistent across all models and is often due to the Mustang's lighter weight and different performance focus. 

Is a 392 the same as a 5.7 HEMI?

No, a 5.7L HEMI is not a 392; a 392 is a larger 6.4L HEMI engine. The "392" refers to the 392 cubic inches of displacement, while the 5.7L engine is approximately 345 cubic inches (5.7×61.024=347.85.7 cross 61.024 equals 347.85.7×61.024=347.8 cubic inches). 

• 5.7L HEMI: This engine displaces approximately 345 cubic inches and is a common V8 found in many trucks and cars. 
• 392 HEMI: This is a larger, more powerful 6.4L engine that displaces 392 cubic inches and is used in performance models like the SRT 392 and Scat Pack. 

How much horsepower does a 5.7 Challenger V8 have?

The 5.7L HEMI V8 engine in a Dodge Challenger produces 375 horsepower when it is standard. It comes equipped with fuel saver technology to switch from eight cylinders to four for improved efficiency. While this is the base V8 performance, the 5.7L HEMI has potential for more power with aftermarket modifications.
 
You can watch this video for a review of the 5.7L Hemi V8 Dodge Challenger: 57sAutoTopNLYouTube · Mar 12, 2024

• Stock horsepower: The 5.7L HEMI is rated at 375 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque in most standard configurations. 
• Standard equipment: It is standard on the R/T model and includes Multi-Displacement System (MDS) technology to improve fuel economy. 
• Performance potential: Owners report that the engine can feel like it's producing more power than its official rating, especially when using higher-octane fuel. 
• Aftermarket modifications: The engine has significant potential for power upgrades through performance tunes, which can add 25-40 horsepower or more with supporting modifications. 
• Overall: It provides a good balance of V8 performance and efficiency for those who don't need the extreme power of the larger HEMI engines like the 392 or Hellcat models. 

This video shows the 5.7L HEMI Challenger R/T running a 12-second 1/4 mile: 39sMopar MotorsportsYouTube · Apr 22, 2024