Whats the difference between scat pack and widebody?
Scat Pack is a performance-focused trim with a powerful V8, while Widebody is a styling and handling package that widens the car’s stance. They can be chosen separately or together as Scat Pack Widebody, depending on the model year and dealer options.
What is the Scat Pack?
The Scat Pack is Dodge’s performance-oriented package that upgrades the engine, chassis, brakes, and other components to deliver a sharper, more track-ready experience. On most Challenger and Charger models, it centers on the 6.4-liter HEMI V8 (a 392 cubic inch engine) that produces around 485 horsepower, with torque in the neighborhood of 475 lb-ft. The package typically includes performance-oriented exhaust, upgraded cooling, and suspension tweaks to improve handling and stability at speed. Transmission options have varied over the years, with both manual and automatic configurations offered at different times.
Before listing the core elements, here’s a quick overview of what you’ll typically encounter with Scat Pack.
- Engine and power: 6.4L HEMI V8 (392) with about 485 hp and around 475 lb-ft of torque
- Performance upgrades: upgraded brakes, enhanced cooling, and suspension tuning for better track capability
- Wheels and tires: performance-oriented wheels and tires for improved grip
- Transmission options: availability of a manual or automatic transmission depending on year/model
- Interior and drive modes: sport-oriented gauges, drive-mode selections, and supportive seating
- Pricing and availability: higher price than base models; sometimes offered as a factory package or dealer option
In short, Scat Pack focuses on increasing horsepower and handling through powertrain and chassis upgrades, without necessarily changing the exterior dimensions of the car.
What is Widebody?
The Widebody option is a factory-installed or dealer-installed body kit that widens the car’s fenders and increases the track width. This allows for larger wheels and tires and typically yields improved grip and cornering stability. Widebody is primarily a handling and stance package, and it does not inherently increase horsepower. It is offered across several trims and can be paired with different powertrains, including some Scat Pack configurations, depending on the model year and market.
Before listing the key features, here are the defining elements of the Widebody package.
- Wider fender flares and increased track width
- Compatible with larger wheels/tires to improve grip
- Revised suspension tuning and underbody components for stability
- Potential braking and cooling adjustments to manage increased grip
- Price premium and added weight from the body kit
In essence, Widebody changes the car’s proportions and handling envelope, offering a more aggressive look and improved cornering capability, but it does not by itself add horsepower.
Scat Pack Widebody: The combined option
For many years, Dodge offered a Scat Pack Widebody configuration that pairs the 392 HEMI engine with the Widebody chassis treatment. This combination delivers the Scat Pack’s performance credentials (around 485 hp) alongside the widened stance, larger wheels, and enhanced grip of the Widebody package. The result is stronger straight-line acceleration plus improved cornering stability, albeit at a higher price and with more overall weight than a standard Scat Pack.
When choosing between these options, buyers typically weigh the value of extra horsepower and sportiness against the visual impact and handling gains from the Widebody kit. Availability and specifics can vary by model year and region, so consult a local dealer for the exact packages offered.
Summary
- Scat Pack: A performance trim centered on a 6.4L HEMI V8 with handling and braking upgrades, focused on power and track capability rather than exterior size changes.
- Widebody: A styling and handling package that widens the car’s stance, allows larger tires, and improves grip, without inherently adding horsepower.
- Scat Pack Widebody: The combination that pairs the Scat Pack powertrain with the Widebody stance for enhanced performance and a more aggressive look.
Bottom line: If you want more horsepower and a track-ready feel, look at Scat Pack. If you want a broader stance and sharper cornering (with or without Scat Pack power), consider Widebody. For the best of both worlds, seek a Scat Pack Widebody option, while verifying the exact specs for your year and model with a dealer.
