What is the fastest Dodge Magnum?

The fastest Dodge Magnum is the 2006–2008 Magnum SRT8, powered by a 6.1-liter Hemi V8 delivering 425 horsepower. It stands as the quickest production variant in the Magnum lineup and remains a notable performance milestone for Mopar wagons.

To understand what makes the Magnum fast, it helps to look at its production history, engine options, and the metrics speed enthusiasts care about most: horsepower, weight, acceleration, and top speed. The Magnum was Dodge’s performance-oriented wagon derived from the Chrysler LX platform, with the SRT8 version representing the peak of its performance efforts.

Origins and lineup

The Dodge Magnum debuted in 2005 as a wagon variant within the Dodge/Chrysler LX lineup. Among its trims, the high-performance SRT8 stood out for its 6.1-liter Hemi V8 and performance-focused tuning. While later Dodge performance cars would surpass it in straight-line speed, the Magnum SRT8 remains the fastest production Magnum ever built.

Key specifications of the fastest model

Powertrain and performance

The SRT8 uses a 6.1-liter Hemi V8 rated at 425 horsepower and about 420 pound-feet of torque. It pairs with a five-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with performance-calibrated suspension and brakes to handle the increased power. This combination gives the wagon its fastest acceleration within the Magnum family and enables strong high-speed performance for a vehicle of its size.

Speed figures in practice

Independent tests from the era commonly quoted 0–60 mph times in the mid- to high-4-second range and quarter-mile times in the low 12-second bracket, depending on tires, launch technique, and weather. Top speeds were typically in the low-to-mid 160 mph range, with variations based on gearing and whether the vehicle was electronically limited.

Comparative context

Compared with the base Magnum variants (which used smaller V6s and less potent V8s), the 6.1L Hemi-powered SRT8 is decisively quicker and more performance-focused. The SRT8’s blend of practical cargo space and genuine straight-line speed is what distinguishes it as the pinnacle of the Magnum lineup during its production years.

Availability and legacy

Production of the Dodge Magnum ended after the 2008 model year, and the SRT8 remains a sought-after used-car pick for enthusiasts seeking a practical wagon with genuine performance credentials. If you’re considering one today, condition, maintenance history, and the availability of replacement parts will heavily influence ownership experience and value.

Summary

In short, the fastest Dodge Magnum is the 2006–2008 Magnum SRT8, equipped with a 6.1-liter Hemi producing 425 horsepower. It delivered the quickest acceleration in the Magnum family and stands as the standout performance wagon from Dodge’s early 2000s era.

How much horsepower does a 5.7 Magnum have?

340 hp
The 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi in the Ram delivered 345 hp (257 kW) and 375 lb⋅ft (508 N⋅m), but 340 hp (254 kW) and 390 lb⋅ft (529 N⋅m) for the 300C and Magnum R/T, which is exactly 100 hp (75 kW) more than the old 5.9 engine.

Is the Magnum better than the HEMI?

The main difference is that "Magnum" often refers to a specific engine family with conventional "wedge" heads, while "Hemi" refers to engines with unique hemispherical combustion chambers, which are designed for higher performance. However, a key point of confusion is that Chrysler combined the two names, as in the "5.7L HEMI Magnum," which was the name for early Gen III Hemi engines in vehicles like the Dodge Magnum RT, before the "Magnum" was dropped from the official name. 
Magnum engine

• Design: A series of conventional V8 engines, like the 5.9L 360, that used "wedge" style cylinder heads. 
• Performance: Good for low-end torque and reliable, but generally less powerful than a Hemi engine of a comparable displacement. 
• Legacy: A popular and durable engine, but it was eventually replaced by the more modern Hemi in many applications. 

Hemi engine

• Design: The name "Hemi" comes from its hemispherical combustion chambers, which allow for better cylinder head flow and more power. 
• Performance: Designed for higher performance, with better cylinder head flow, more aggressive cam timing, and higher compression compared to Magnum engines. 
• Legacy: The "Hemi" name has a long history in performance Mopar engines, especially the 426 cubic inch version from the muscle car era. The name was also used for modern engines, such as the 5.7L Gen III Hemi, which was introduced in 2003 to replace the Magnum engines. 

The "5.7L HEMI Magnum" 

• A marketing combination: Chrysler initially marketed the new Gen III 5.7L Hemi as the "HEMI Magnum," which was confusing but indicated it was a replacement for the previous Magnum engines. 
• Modern Hemi: This is a modern, overhead-cam, V8 engine with hemispherical combustion chambers, designed for improved performance and fuel economy. 

Is the 5.9 V8 Magnum a good engine?

Yes, the 5.9 Magnum is generally considered a good, reliable, and powerful engine, especially when it receives proper maintenance. It is known for its low-end torque and durability, with many owners reporting high mileage, but it does have some common issues like intake manifold and exhaust manifold bolt problems. While its fuel economy is poor, its overall strength and longevity make it a solid choice if properly cared for. 
Pros of the 5.9 Magnum

• Power and torque: It offers excellent low-end torque and was one of the most powerful V8s of its time, making it great for towing and hauling. 
• Durability: The engine is known for its robustness and can last for hundreds of thousands of miles with proper maintenance. 
• Parts availability: The 5.9 Magnum was used in many Dodge vehicles, so parts are relatively inexpensive and easy to find. 

Cons of the 5.9 Magnum

• Fuel economy: It is not fuel-efficient, typically averaging around 12-13 mpg. 
• Common issues: A major known weakness is the plenum gasket leak on the intake manifold. Another common problem is broken exhaust manifold bolts, particularly on the passenger side. 
• Head cracks: The original cylinder heads are prone to cracking, especially if the engine is overheated or abused. 

How to maintain and improve the 5.9 Magnum

• Address the plenum gasket: Replace the stock plenum gasket with an upgraded aftermarket one to prevent leaks. 
• Check exhaust manifold bolts: Inspect and replace broken or rusted exhaust manifold bolts. 
• Perform regular maintenance: Change the oil, filter, and other fluids regularly. 
• Avoid abuse: The engine is not a high-performance racing engine. Driving it aggressively can lead to cracked heads. 
• Consider aftermarket heads: If replacing heads, consider aftermarket options to improve performance and durability. 

What's the fastest Dodge Magnum?

On that final pass of the day on December 9, 2022, Max Nichols' monster Dodge Magnum broke the water pump belt shortly after launch, but that didn't stop him from storming down the track in just 8.344 seconds with a speed of 164.69 miles per hour – making his Dragnum the quickest Dodge Magnum in the world.