What gear ratio does a scat pack have?

The Dodge Scat Pack’s gear ratio varies by drivetrain and model year, but practical values fall into two common ranges: the six‑speed manual typically uses a final-drive around 3.07:1, while the eight‑speed automatic generally ranges from about 3.21:1 to 3.55:1. Exact figures depend on year, options, and tire size.

In automotive terms, “gear ratio” can refer to the final-drive ratio of the rear axle or to the overall gearing created by the combination of transmission and axle. The Scat Pack, a performance-focused variant of the Challenger and Charger, has been offered with either a six‑speed manual Tremec transmission or an eight‑speed automatic, and each setup can yield different gearing. Tire size and optional performance packages also influence the effective gearing you experience on the road.

Drivetrain Options and Typical Gearing

The following outlines typical final-drive figures encountered on Scat Pack models, noting that exact numbers can vary by year and option package.

• Manual transmission (six‑speed Tremec): commonly around 3.07:1 final drive, with some years reporting 3.23:1 as an alternative.

These manual configurations affect engine rpm at highway speeds and launch characteristics, making them a preferred choice for enthusiasts seeking a purer, first‑hand feel of the car’s performance.

• Eight‑speed automatic: typically in the 3.21:1 to 3.55:1 range, depending on model year and options (including wheels and tires, which can subtly alter effective gearing).

Automatic Scat Packs prioritize smoothness and flexibility, with dual‑range gearing adapting to both daily driving and track-oriented use.

How to Verify Your Car’s Exact Gear Ratio

To confirm the precise gearing on a specific Scat Pack, check authoritative sources tied to your vehicle. Start with the axle tag on the differential or the certified build sheet, which often lists the final-drive ratio. The window sticker and the official VIN/ROM data from the dealer can also reveal the exact ratio for your car’s year and configuration. If in doubt, a dealer service department or a Dodge/Chrysler technical reference can confirm the exact figures for your VIN.

Why Gear Ratio Matters for Scat Pack Performance

Gear ratio directly influences acceleration, horsepower feel, and highway RPM. A lower numeric final-drive ratio (e.g., 3.07:1) yields higher engine RPM for a given speed, which can boost off‑the‑line response but may elevate engine noise and fuel use at highway speeds. A higher numeric ratio (e.g., 3.55:1) generally lowers engine RPM at cruising speeds, improving fuel economy and reducing engine stress on long highway stints, while sharpening torque delivery in lower gears for quick launches.

Ultimately, the Scat Pack’s gearing is a balancing act between immediate acceleration and comfortable cruising, shaped by whether you prefer a manual or automatic transmission, as well as by year‑specific calibrations and optional packages.

Summary

The Dodge Scat Pack’s gear ratio is not a single fixed value. In typical configurations, manual cars use a final-drive around 3.07:1 (with occasional 3.23:1), while automatic versions range roughly from 3.21:1 to 3.55:1. Exact figures depend on model year, drivetrain, wheel/tire size, and optional packages. To know your precise ratio, consult the axle tag, build sheet, window sticker, or your dealer’s VIN-based data, and consider how the gearing will impact both performance and highway comfort.

What is the gear ratio on a Scat Pack?

Majority of newer Scats and Hellcats have 2.62 rear gears. With the optional 3.09. The demon is a 3.09. The earlier 6 speed is about the only one with a 3.90 option.

Which is better, 3.73 or 4.10 gears?

Neither 3.73 nor 4.10 gears are inherently better; the best choice depends on your priorities: 4.10 gears provide better acceleration and torque, making them ideal for towing, off-roading, or heavy loads, while 3.73 gears are better for highway cruising, as they offer better fuel economy and a higher top speed. The 4.10 ratio means the engine turns more times for each wheel revolution, increasing mechanical advantage but also increasing engine RPMs at highway speeds. 
This video explains the difference between 3.73 and 4.10 gear ratios: 34sLate Model Restoration (LMR)YouTube · May 22, 2025
4.10 gears

• Better for: Towing, hauling, off-roading, and vehicles with larger tires. 
• Pros:
  • Quicker acceleration and higher torque. 
  • Improved performance when under load, as the engine doesn't have to work as hard. 
  • May improve city or stop-and-go fuel economy as the engine can stay in a more efficient RPM range. 
• Cons:
  • Lower top speed. 
  • Decreased fuel economy on the highway due to higher RPMs. 

3.73 gears

• Better for: Daily driving, primarily highway use, and fuel economy. 
• Pros:
  • Better fuel economy on the highway. 
  • Higher top speed. 
  • Lower engine noise and wear at cruising speeds. 
  • Can be better for vehicles with automatic transmissions. 
• Cons:
  • Slower acceleration and less torque compared to 4.10s. 
  • May struggle more when towing or under heavy loads, potentially requiring more downshifting. 

How to choose

• If your vehicle is a daily driver and most of your driving is on the highway: 3.73 gears will likely provide better fuel economy and a more comfortable highway experience. 
• If you frequently tow, haul heavy loads, or drive on a lot of hills: 4.10 gears will offer a significant advantage in performance and torque, and the difference in fuel economy is often minimal when loaded. 
• If you have larger-than-stock tires: 4.10 gears are often recommended to regain performance lost due to the increased tire size. 

Can a Scat Pack outrun a cop?

A Scat Pack can outrun many police cars in a straight line due to its powerful engine, but it does not guarantee an escape, as police can still catch a driver through strategy, superior resources like helicopters, or by the driver making a mistake. The outcome often depends more on the driver's skill, the specific police resources available, and the surrounding environment than the car's power alone. 
This video shows a Dodge Charger Scat Pack, which is a very fast car, evading police in a high-speed chase: 57sSRT DADYouTube · Apr 25, 2025
Factors that help a Scat Pack outrun police

• Superior power: A Scat Pack's horsepower (e.g., 485 hp for the 392 V8) is often higher than that of standard police patrol cars. 
• High top speed: The high top speed of the Scat Pack (over 170170170 mph) allows it to create significant distance on a straight road. 
• Driver skill and knowledge of the area: A skilled driver who knows the local area can use tactics like splitting up from another car to confuse police or use residential streets to their advantage. 

You can watch this video to see how a Charger Scat Pack driver outsmarted the police by knowing the area: 57sKnockout 360YouTube · May 29, 2024
Factors that lead to capture

• Police strategy and resources: Police can still catch a driver through other means. They have radios, which mean even if they lose sight of the car, they can alert other officers. Helicopters are also a major factor, as a car cannot outrun an aircraft. 
• Driver error: A driver's lack of skill in handling the car's power can lead to a crash or getting caught. Losing control at high speeds is a major risk. 
• Traffic and environment: Running into heavy traffic can quickly negate the advantage of a fast car. Running in a way that is easy for police to track (e.g., through heavy traffic or by getting them stuck in a bad area) can lead to a capture. 

This video illustrates how a driver can make mistakes that lead to them being caught by the police: 59sKnockout 360YouTube · Nov 18, 2025

Is a 3.42 rear axle ratio good?

A 3.42 rear end is generally considered a good, all-around ratio that provides a solid balance between highway fuel economy and towing/acceleration performance. It's a great choice for drivers who do a mix of city and highway driving, and for those who tow occasionally, but might not be enough for those who regularly haul heavy loads. 
Pros

• Good balance: Offers a blend of fuel efficiency at highway speeds and decent pulling power. 
• Highway cruising: Keeps engine RPMs lower during highway cruising, which can lead to better gas mileage compared to higher (numerically lower) gear ratios. 
• Standard choice: It is a common factory-installed ratio on many trucks and SUVs, indicating it's a widely accepted middle-ground option. 

Cons

• Limited for heavy towing: If you regularly tow very heavy loads, you may find the 3.42 ratio lacking and wish for a higher ratio (like 3.73 or 4.10) for more pulling grunt. 
• Slower acceleration: Acceleration from a stop will be slower than with higher numerical gear ratios. 
• Can struggle with large tires: If you have oversized tires, they can make the effective gear ratio higher (numerically lower), which can negatively impact performance and the need to downshift. 

Who should choose a 3.42 rear end?

• The average truck owner: It's a great choice if you use your vehicle for everyday driving, light-duty towing, and mostly highway miles. 
• Those prioritizing fuel economy: If you drive long distances on the highway, the 3.42 ratio's lower cruising RPMs can be beneficial for your wallet.