Home FAQ

How much horsepower does a 6.4 Hemi Challenger have?

The 6.4 Hemi Challenger typically delivers about 485 horsepower in most modern iterations, with earlier versions around 470 horsepower. This article breaks down what that means and how it has evolved over the years.

The 6.4-liter Hemi, commonly known as the 392, has been a cornerstone of the Challenger lineup since its introduction. While early 6.4-liter models wore a 470-horsepower rating, a mid-cycle update pushed most 6.4-liter Challengers to 485 horsepower beginning in 2015, with torque figures around 475 lb-ft. Variations can occur due to transmission choice, exhaust options, and specific model trim.

What is the 6.4 Hemi?

The 6.4-liter Hemi is a naturally aspirated V8 engine used in Dodge Challenger and Charger SRT models. In the Challenger, it powers the R/T 392 and SRT 392 variants. Over its production life, power outputs have shifted from 470 horsepower in the early years to 485 horsepower in later years, while torque has hovered around the high 470s of lb-ft. This engine is widely celebrated for its broad torque band and audible exhaust note.

Power figures by model year

To give readers a clear sense of how the numbers have changed, here is a concise year-by-year snapshot of typical horsepower ratings for Challengers equipped with the 6.4-liter Hemi. The figures refer to the SAE net horsepower ratings used for modern vehicles.

2011–2014: 470 hp (SAE net) with about 470 lb-ft of torque in SRT/392 variants.

2015–2019: 485 hp and roughly 475 lb-ft of torque in the 392-equipped R/T 392 and SRT 392 models.

2020–2023: 485 hp and about 475 lb-ft of torque, continuing the 392-era rating.

In practice, the exact figure can vary slightly by transmission (manual vs. automatic), drivetrain configuration, and any factory or dealer-installed performance packages. The long-standing takeaway is that the 6.4L Hemi in current Challengers is rated at 485 hp.

Performance context and comparisons

How it translates to on-road performance

horsepower alone doesn’t tell the full story. The 6.4L Hemi’s strength lies in its broad torque curve, which helps the Challenger deliver strong mid-range acceleration and a satisfying push in the upper rpm range. With 475 lb-ft of torque available across many configurations, buyers typically see brisk 0–60 mph times and robust mid-range passing power, especially with the manual or automatic transmission paired to a performance-oriented setup.

For context, the 6.4 Hemi sits between the more affordable V8 options and the extreme supercharged variants in the Challenger lineup. It offers a compelling blend of performance and daily usability, which is part of why it remains a popular choice among enthusiasts.

Summary

In summary, the 6.4-liter Hemi Challenger is most commonly rated at 485 horsepower in recent model years, with early versions displaying 470 horsepower. Expect about 475 lb-ft of torque across the modern 392-equipped Challengers, with minor variations depending on year, trim, and drivetrain. For prospective buyers or curious readers, the key takeaway is that the 392 Hemi delivers solid, everyday-high performance with a characteristic V8 soundtrack and strong mid-range torque.

Is 392 HEMI the same as 6.4 HEMI?

Yes, the 6.4L Hemi is also known as the 392, a name that comes from its displacement of 392 cubic inches. While both names refer to the same engine family, there are different versions, such as the high-performance SRT 392 and the 6.4L "Big Gas Engine" (BGE) used in trucks, which have different specs like compression ratio and tuning.

Engine displacement: The 6.4-liter displacement is equivalent to 392 cubic inches (6.4 L≈392 in36.4 L is approximately equal to 392 in cubed6.4 L≈392 in3).
Marketing: Depending on the vehicle, year, and model, the engine may be labeled as either "6.4L" or "392".
Variations: There are different versions of the 6.4L Hemi.
- SRT 392: This version is optimized for high performance with a higher compression ratio and is found in cars and SUVs.
- "Big Gas Engine" (BGE): This version is designed for trucks and has a lower compression ratio, making it suitable for lower-octane fuel and built for heavy-duty use.

Is a SRT 392 faster than a Hellcat?

The Hellcat accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and on through the quarter mile in 11.7 seconds at 117.3 mph. The last Durango 392 we tested needed (a still-quick) 4.6 seconds to hit 60 mph and 13.2 seconds to run the quarter mile at 103.5 mph.

Is a 6.4 HEMI better than a 5.7 HEMI?

The main differences are that the 6.4L Hemi provides significantly more horsepower and torque (around 100100100 hp and 808080 lb-ft) for a more powerful performance, while the 5.7L Hemi is more budget-friendly with a lower initial price, cheaper insurance, and better fuel economy, while still offering good performance for daily driving. The 6.4L is better for those prioritizing performance and towing, while the 5.7L is a more practical choice for a daily driver that offers savings upfront and on fuel.
This video compares the horsepower and torque of the 5.7L and 6.4L Hemi engines: 1m8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Jan 16, 2025

Feature	5.7L Hemi	6.4L Hemi
Power	Approximately 375375375 horsepower and 395395395 lb-ft of torque	Approximately 485485485 horsepower and 475475475 lb-ft of torque
Performance	Good for daily driving and towing	Superior for performance, towing, and in-gear acceleration
Cost	Lower purchase price and potentially lower insurance costs	Higher purchase price and insurance premiums
Fuel	Can run on regular gasoline and has slightly better city fuel economy	Requires premium fuel and has lower fuel economy, especially with aggressive driving
Modifications	More forgiving for modifications and has more room for power adders without damaging the engine's internals	Requires forging internal components for significant boost to avoid damage

You prioritize power and performance above all else.
You want better towing and low-end torque.
You are willing to pay more for the performance benefits.

Choose the 5.7L Hemi if:

You are on a tighter budget.
You want better fuel economy and the option to use regular gas.
You plan to modify the engine and want more room for error without expensive internal upgrades.

How much HP can you get out of a 6.4 HEMI?

A stock 6.4L Hemi can handle up to approximately 650 hp, though this is often cited as the limit for the factory connecting rods. However, pushing beyond this requires internal modifications to handle the stress, with some built engines reaching well over 900 hp with supporting upgrades like turbos and a strong tune. For forced induction, lower boost levels around 6 psi can be safely added, but a proper tune is critical to avoid engine damage.
This video discusses the modifications and horsepower a 6.4L Hemi can handle: 59s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Sep 19, 2024
Stock-level limitations

Factory rods: The factory connecting rods are a known weak point and are estimated to handle around 650 hp before failure.
Tuning is essential for any boost: Without a proper tune, adding even low-level boost (around 6 psi) can quickly destroy the engine due to thin pistons and other components.

Modified engines

With supporting modifications: When using stronger internal components and a well-developed tuning strategy, some builds have reached over 900 hp.
Supercharging: With a high-efficiency supercharger system and a conservative tune, it's possible to gain over 200 hp, pushing the output to around 700 hp.
Naturally aspirated: Naturally aspirated builds using upgraded cams and intake can push the engine to approximately 500 to 525 horsepower.
Tuning and component balance: The key to handling more power is a combination of a strong tune and components that are properly balanced for the power level. A high peak horsepower number on a dyno can be misleading if the engine isn't built to handle the sustained stress of driving.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.