Is the Dodge Viper faster than the Hellcat?
A quick takeaway: in straight-line speed, the Viper generally has the edge over the base Hellcat, with the Hellcat Redeye narrowing the gap. The Viper’s production ended in 2017, while the Hellcat lineup remains in production today.
Defining speed: what “faster” means here
In this comparison, “faster” covers three practical measures: top speed (how fast the car can go in a straight line), 0–60 mph acceleration (how quickly it reaches highway speed), and overall track performance (how well the car performs on a circuit, where handling and braking matter as much as outright power). We use representative, production-focused figures from common variants to illustrate the differences. Model year, aero packages, tires, and driveline setup can shift these numbers.
Top speed showdown
Here is a snapshot of typical top speeds for representative production models from each lineup. Note that aero options and gearing can influence the final figure, and some variants exist primarily for the track or have slightly different limits.
- Dodge Viper (SRT Viper, general production models): approximately 206 mph (331 km/h)
- Challenger SRT Hellcat (707 hp, base Hellcat): approximately 199 mph (321 km/h)
- Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye (797 hp): approximately 203 mph (327 km/h)
Conclusion: On paper, the Viper typically leads in top speed among these common production variants, with the Hellcat Redeye closing the gap. Real-world results can vary by aero configuration, tires, and yaw angles on different road surfaces.
0–60 mph and straight-line acceleration
This section compares how quickly each car reaches 60 mph from a standstill, a frequent measure for enthusiasts evaluating outright speed in daily driving and drag-strip contexts.
- Dodge Viper (typical production Viper, non-ACR): roughly 3.0–3.5 seconds 0–60 mph, depending on year and transmission
- Challenger SRT Hellcat (base): roughly 3.4–3.6 seconds 0–60 mph
- Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye: roughly 3.4–3.5 seconds 0–60 mph
Conclusion: In straight-line acceleration, the Viper often posts a faster 0–60 than the base Hellcat, while the Redeye typically matches or slightly edges the base Hellcat, depending on tires and launch technique. Variability by model year and drivetrain setup is common.
Track performance and handling
Beyond straight-line speed, handling, braking, and mid-corner stability shape a car’s track performance. The Viper line includes highly regarded, track-focused variants, while the Hellcat family leans on brutal power and improved chassis with modern traction and stability systems. This section highlights how those design priorities translate on the circuit.
Viper-focused track variants
The Viper’s most celebrated track models—especially the ACR family—emphasize cornering grip, braking prowess, and aerodynamic efficiency. Even without the most recent electronics packages, these cars have historically delivered superior track-focused handling for many road courses, often delivering lap-time advantages over contemporary horsepower-dense coupes when properly setup and driven by skilled hands.
- Viper ACR and similar track-oriented configurations: renowned for downforce, braking, and steering feel tailored for tracks
- General Viper variants: strong straight-line performance paired with a lightweight, rear-drive chassis
Conclusion: On true track performance, the Viper’s fundamental balance and track-focused variants have earned a strong reputation for handling and braking that can surpass similarly powered Hellcats in disciplined circuit driving. Real-world results depend heavily on tire choice, aero setup, and driver skill.
Bottom line
Overall, the Dodge Viper typically offered faster straight-line speed and quicker 0–60 times in its production era than the base Hellcat, with the Hellcat Redeye narrowing the gap in top speed and delivering competitive acceleration. However, the Viper is no longer in production, which means contemporary buyers looking for new hardware must consider the Hellcat lineup or other modern successors. When it comes to track performance, the Viper’s legacy as a dedicated performance machine is still cited by enthusiasts, though Hellcat variants remain a formidable, more accessible option for high-powered street performance.
Summary
Across the main, street-legal variants, the Dodge Viper generally outpaces the base Hellcat in top speed and 0–60 mph acceleration, with the Hellcat Redeye narrowing the gap on straight-line performance. On track performance, Viper ACR-era variants are often celebrated for handling and braking efficiency, while Hellcat variants prioritize raw horsepower and modern efficiency. The Viper’s production ended in 2017, making the Hellcat the current, readily available benchmark for Dodge’s performance cars.
