What is the gear ratio of the Dodge Charger?
There isn’t a single gear ratio that applies to every Dodge Charger. The car has evolved across multiple generations, engines, and transmissions, so the final-drive (gear) ratio varies by configuration. In practice, the exact ratio depends on the year, trim, and drivetrain of your specific Charger, and it’s best to check the exact figures for your car’s setup.
Why the Charger’s gear ratio isn’t a single value
Across its history, the Charger has used different transmissions and axle tunings to balance performance, efficiency, and driving characteristics. That means the final-drive ratio isn’t uniform from one model to the next, even among cars that look similar on the surface. The result is a wide range of possible ratios depending on the engine, transmission, and version (standard, performance-oriented, or high-performance variants).
Because of these variables, there isn’t a single gear ratio for the Dodge Charger. The exact number depends on the exact model and configuration.
- Different generations and architectures (including LX-era platforms and newer rear-wheel-drive setups) used 4-, 5-, and 8-speed transmissions, and sometimes manual options in specific trims.
- Final-drive ratios vary with engine choice, trim level, and whether the model is designed for efficiency or performance.
- Performance variants such as SRT and Hellcat-tuned models typically employ different axle tuning to optimize acceleration, top speed, and handling, which can change the gear ratio relative to standard models.
In short, the Dodge Charger does not have one universal gear ratio. The exact value is tied to the car’s year, engine, transmission, and axle configuration.
How to find your exact gear ratio
To determine the precise gear ratio for your Charger, use the following steps. Start with the most direct sources first, then use a VIN-based lookup if needed.
- Locate the axle/differential tag on the rear differential and read the ratio code printed there.
- Check the vehicle’s window sticker or build sheet. The final-drive ratio is usually listed alongside axle and transmission details.
- Decode the VIN using a reputable source (dealer, manufacturer databases, or official service documents) to extract the drivetrain information for your exact vehicle configuration.
- Consult the owner’s manual or a factory service manual for your year and trim, which often include drivetrain specifications.
- If you still can’t locate it, contact a Dodge dealer or certified technician with your VIN for a precise confirmation of the final-drive ratio.
With these steps, you can confirm the exact gear ratio for your Charger, regardless of year or model.
Bottom line
Ultimately, the Dodge Charger’s gear ratio is not a fixed figure. It changes across generations, engines, transmissions, and performance variants. Identifying your exact configuration and consulting official documentation or VIN-based data is the reliable way to know your car’s precise final-drive ratio.
Summary
The Dodge Charger has offered multiple gear ratios over its production run. There is no single value that applies to all Chargers. To know the exact final-drive ratio for a specific car, identify the year, engine, transmission, and axle configuration, then verify via axle tags, build sheets, VIN decoding, or official manuals.
What gear ratio does a Scat Pack have?
Scat Pack models typically come with a 3.09 rear gear ratio for automatic transmissions or a 3.90 for manual transmissions. Some older or different versions may have a 2.62 ratio, while others might have a 3.90 (or similar) option for manuals, which provides quicker acceleration for drag or dig racing. Choosing between these depends on the intended use of the vehicle, as a higher numerical ratio like 3.90 will improve acceleration but lower the car's top speed and fuel efficiency compared to a lower ratio like 3.09 or 2.62.
This video shows a review of a Mopar 3.90 differential on a Scat Pack Charger: 49sSrtfied OfficialYouTube · Apr 10, 2021
Common gear ratios
- 3.09: Often paired with the automatic transmission, this ratio provides a good balance of acceleration and highway cruising. It's a common choice for automatic Scat Packs.
- 3.90: Typically found on manual transmission Scat Packs, this higher numerical ratio results in quicker acceleration from a stop, which is ideal for drag racing.
- 2.62: Some versions of the Scat Pack come with this ratio, which is better for fuel economy and higher top speeds compared to the 3.09 or 3.90 ratios.
What gear ratio means for you
- Higher ratio (e.g., 3.90): Quicker acceleration off the line but reduced fuel efficiency and lower top speed. It is great for track or drag racing.
- Lower ratio (e.g., 3.09): Better fuel economy and higher top speed compared to a higher ratio, with a good balance of performance for general street use.
What is the 3.73 rear end gear ratio?
So if a truck has an axle ratio of 3.73:1 or 3.73, it means the driveshaft turns 3.73 times to spin the axle one full cycle. If the driveshaft makes more revolutions to rotate the wheels, the ratio is higher. A higher axle ratio implies higher engine power or torque.
What is the differential ratio of the 2007 Dodge Charger RT?
2007 2014 Dodge Charger RT OEM Rear Differential Carrier RWD 2.65 Ratio.
What kind of transmission does a Dodge Charger have?
The base engine was a 318 cu in (5.2 L) V8 with a three-speed manual transmission, while automatic and floor-mounted manual transmissions were optional.
