What is the highest Dodge Challenger?

The most powerful Dodge Challenger to date is the SRT Demon 170, delivering about 1,025 horsepower on E85 fuel in a limited-run package.

The crown: horsepower leaders in Challenger history

Here's a snapshot of the main contenders by horsepower in the Challenger lineup.

• Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 — about 1,025 horsepower on E85 in a limited-run package designed for drag racing. It emphasizes straight-line performance and restricted production rather than everyday usability.


• Dodge Challenger SRT Demon (2018) — 840 horsepower on race fuel (high-octane). Renowned for blistering acceleration and sub-9-second quarter-mile potential under ideal conditions.


• Dodge Challenger SRT Super Stock (2023) — 807 horsepower; introduced as the most powerful production Challenger not primarily aimed at drag-only use, blending high straight-line speed with street legality.


• Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye (2020–2023) — 797 horsepower; the top-tier Hellcat offering, built for broad thrill with a broader production footprint.

The power hierarchy above highlights how Dodge has layered its performance strategies—from extreme, limited-run Demons to the more widely available Hellcat and Super Stock variants—each delivering a different balance of speed, daily usability, and exclusivity.

What counts as "highest" in this context?

In this article, "highest" refers to peak horsepower output as advertised by Dodge, typically under specific fuel conditions (for example, E85 for the Demon 170 and race fuel for the original Demon). Other performance measures—such as top speed, acceleration, and handling—vary with tires, gearing, aerodynamics, and tuning. The Demon 170 represents a limited-run, high-horsepower milestone, while the broader Challenger lineup provides extreme performance with greater everyday practicality.

Summary

The champion in horsepower terms is the SRT Demon 170, at roughly 1,025 hp on E85, a limited-run model that pushes the Challenger into extreme drag-strip territory. Historically, the most powerful conventional production Challenger was the 2018 Demon with 840 hp, followed by the 807-hp SRT Super Stock and the 797-hp Hellcat Redeye. Together, these variants illustrate Dodge’s enduring commitment to pushing the performance envelope for the Challenger nameplate, even as the brand evolves in an era of electrification and stricter emissions rules.

Which one is faster, GT or RT?

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. 

What are the levels of challengers?

The levels of Dodge Challenger trim levels range from the entry-level SXT and GT, which use a V6 engine, to the performance-oriented R/T and R/T Scat Pack, which feature V8 engines. At the top are the SRT models, including the Hellcat, Hellcat Widebody, Hellcat Redeye, and Super Stock, which provide the highest horsepower with supercharged V8 engines. Special editions like the Demon 170 represent the most powerful versions available.
 
This video provides an overview of all the Dodge Challenger trim levels from 2021 to 2023: 46shellcatguyYouTube · Jul 28, 2021
Base and entry-level trims

• SXT: The entry-level model, typically featuring a 3.6L V6 engine and available with all-wheel drive. 
• GT: Shares the V6 engine with the SXT but adds performance-inspired styling and all-wheel drive, making it a good option for various road conditions. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the SXT and GT trim levels: 58sDashboardDanielYouTube · Aug 29, 2024
Mid-level V8 trims 

• R/T: Offers a significant power increase with a V8 engine over the SXT and GT. 
• R/T Scat Pack: A V8-powered model with even more horsepower, and the option for a wide-body configuration and other performance enhancements. 

High-performance SRT trims

• SRT Hellcat: Features a supercharged HEMI V8 engine, providing a substantial increase in horsepower and performance. 
• SRT Hellcat Widebody: Adds extra width to accommodate wider tires for superior handling. 
• SRT Hellcat Redeye: A more powerful version of the Hellcat, with a higher horsepower output. 
• SRT Super Stock: The pinnacle of the standard Challenger lineup, with the most powerful version of the supercharged V8 engine available from the factory. 

Special editions

• SRT Demon 170: A limited-edition model at the very top of the Challenger hierarchy, representing the most powerful and exclusive version. 
• Jailbreak models: A designation available on higher trims, which allows for more customization options. 

What is better, SRT or RT?

Neither SRT nor R/T is objectively "better"; the choice depends on your priorities. SRT offers higher performance with more powerful engines, better handling, and premium features, but comes at a higher cost. R/T is a better choice for those seeking a more balanced and budget-friendly option, providing a traditional American muscle car experience without the premium price of SRT models.
 
SRT (Street & Racing Technology)

• Performance: Higher horsepower, better handling, and more advanced braking and suspension systems. 
• Features: Comes with premium, exclusive features like upgraded interiors, larger brakes, and advanced suspension. 
• Cost: More expensive to purchase and maintain, with higher insurance premiums. 
• Best for: Drivers who prioritize ultimate performance and are willing to pay a premium for it. 

R/T (Road/Track)

• Performance: Offers a balance of performance and efficiency with a powerful engine, but less powerful than an SRT model. 
• Features: Offers a more traditional muscle car experience and a wider range of options, making it a solid all-around choice. 
• Cost: More budget-friendly to purchase and maintain, with better fuel economy and lower insurance premiums. 
• Best for: Drivers seeking a high-performance vehicle that is also a practical daily driver and a good value for the money. 

What is the highest model of Challenger?

The all-new 2021 Challenger SRT Super Stock is the world's quickest and most powerful muscle car, with outstanding 807-horsepower. The SRT Super Stock will jump from 0 to 60 mph in 3.25 seconds. It also will run the quarter-mile in 10.5 seconds at 131 mph with a top speed of 168mph.