How much HP does a 5.7 RT charger have?

The Dodge Charger R/T with a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 typically delivers about 370 horsepower, with torque around 395 lb-ft. Exact figures can vary slightly by model year and testing method.

This article breaks down what that horsepower means, how the figure is measured, and how it fits into the Charger lineup today.

Engine basics and what drives the number

The Charger R/T relies on a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 equipped with modern features such as variable valve timing and the MDS (cylinder deactivation) system in certain driving scenarios. Horsepower ratings refer to SAE net figures, which reflect how the engine performs with accessories, exhaust, and other components installed during typical driving conditions.

The following points summarize the core specifications you’re most likely to encounter when looking up the Charger R/T’s power figures.

• Horsepower: 370 hp (SAE net rating commonly cited for the 5.7L Hemi in the Charger R/T)


• Torque: 395 lb-ft


• Displacement: 5.7 liters


• Configuration: 8-cylinder, 90-degree V8 with modern valvetrain technology

Note: Some model years or market specifications list numbers very close to this, with occasional references to 372 hp due to minor testing or tuning variations. Torque figures tend to align around 395 lb-ft across most years.

Year-by-year nuance and how it fits in the lineup

Across the Charger’s modern generations, the 5.7L Hemi’s horsepower has remained in the vicinity of 370 hp, with small variance in a few years due to testing standards (SAE net vs. older gross), emissions equipment, and minor tuning differences. The 5.7L Hemi sits below the higher-performance 6.4L Hemi found in other trims, but it remains a strong balance of daily usability and strong straight-line acceleration.

How it compares within the Charger family

Compared with the 6.4L Hemi in the higher-performance trims (which can push roughly 470–485 hp in various model years), the 5.7L Hemi in the Charger R/T is more about approachable power, smoother everyday driveability, and improved fuel economy in some configurations thanks to modern engine tech and variable valve timing.

Bottom line and context

In practical terms, the 5.7-liter Hemi-powered Charger R/T is typically rated at about 370 horsepower with around 395 lb-ft of torque. While there can be year-to-year nuance, this has been the reliable baseline for most 5.7L Charger R/T models in recent generations.

Summary: The Charger R/T’s 5.7L Hemi delivers roughly 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque, with minor variations by year and measurement standard. It represents a balance of performance and everyday usability within the Charger lineup.

Is a GT or RT faster?

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 RT faster than a Daytona?

Is the Dodge Charger RT or Daytona faster? The Charger RT is a fast car that makes 370 horsepower, but the upcoming Charger Daytona EV is set to be even faster, since its weakest form should arrive with 455 horsepower.

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. 

Is a 345 charger a Scat Pack?

No, a "345" Charger is not a Scat Pack; it is the Charger R/T, which uses the 5.7L HEMI engine, referred to as the "345" (345 cubic inches). The Scat Pack models have a more powerful engine, the 392 HEMI. 

• 345 Charger: This refers to the Charger R/T trim, which is equipped with the 5.7L HEMI V8 engine. This engine is also often labeled with a "345" badge to indicate its 345 cubic inch displacement. 
• Scat Pack: This is a separate trim level that features the more powerful 392 (6.4L) HEMI engine, delivering more horsepower and torque than the 345/5.7L engine. 
• How to tell them apart: The primary difference is the engine. While the R/T has the 345/5.7L engine, the Scat Pack has the larger 392/6.4L engine.