Dodge Charger Sixpack vs. Challenger Scat Pack: Comparing the New V6 Powerhouse to the Old V8 Muscle
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In the ever-evolving landscape of American performance, change is inevitable. The Dodge Challenger bid farewell to the automotive world after the 2023 model year, but its legacy continues to linger, much like a wistful memory that refuses to fade. You’ll still find them cruising the streets, especially when we have a new rival sharing our test track. That’s precisely why, upon welcoming the 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack Plus, we immediately called its predecessor to the stage. We wanted to see how this brand-new gas-fed coupe stacks up against the 2019 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody in a head-to-head comparison of performance figures.
2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack vs 2019 Dodge Challenger Scat Pack Test Hub
Dodge
Now that we’ve had the chance to test Dodge’s new two-door Charger Sixpack, we wanted to see how it compares with the old Challenger R/T Scat Pack.
In our testing, the V-8 Challenger had more grip and stopped from 70 mph in a shorter distance, though the six-cylinder Charger was quicker to 60 mph.
In addition to having a heavier curb weight, the new gas-fed Charger currently can’t be optioned with summer tires, putting it on a serious back foot.
A New Engine, But More Weight
What distinguishes the Challenger from its successor is simple: the powertrain. Dodge no longer offers a V-8 engine in its muscle cars. The Scat Pack version of the 2026 Dodge Charger that we tested features a powerful 550-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter Hurricane straight-six. On the other hand, the Challenger we tested back in 2019 was driven by a 485-hp naturally aspirated 6.4-liter V-8, famously known as the 392 Hemi.
It’s a tough pill to swallow when a new generation doesn’t outperform the old one. Unfortunately, the Charger Sixpack underperformed the Challenger in several key metrics. It posted a 0.90 g on the skidpad compared to the Challenger’s 0.96 g. The story is similar with braking; the Challenger required 148 feet to stop from 70 mph, while the Sixpack needed 177 feet.
The Impact of Weight and Tires on Charger Performance
Digging into the details reveals why the older model achieved superior results in both handling and stopping. Currently, Dodge does not offer summer tires for the Charger Sixpack (a surprising exclusion, as they are available on the Charger Daytona EV). However, a Dodge spokesperson confirmed that summer tires will be an option for the gas-fed model later this year.
Even with this limitation, the weight penalty is significant. The Charger Sixpack Scat Pack weighed in at 4,889 pounds, whereas the Challenger R/T Scat Pack tipped the scales at a lighter 4,352 pounds. When you combine the 537-pound weight difference with all-season tires, the test results speak for themselves.
Straight-Line Speed: The Charger Takes the Lead
In the world of muscle cars, straight-line speed often takes priority. Despite its heavier build and all-season tires, the Charger Sixpack reached 60 mph in a mere 3.7 seconds, beating the V-8 Challenger by two-tenths of a second. The Hurricane-powered Charger also reached 100 mph in 8.8 seconds, significantly outpacing the Hemi-equipped Challenger’s 9.3-second run.
The new twin-turbo Charger also outperformed the Challenger in the quarter-mile, clocking in at 12.1 seconds at 116 mph versus the Challenger’s 12.4 seconds at 114 mph. While the Charger achieved a faster launch, the Challenger’s V-8 engine was more responsive. We recorded a 5-to-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds in the Challenger against 4.8 seconds in the Charger.
Comparing Charger Sixpack vs Challenger Scat Pack: Real-World Performance
Comparison Snapshot: Charger Sixpack vs. Challenger Scat Pack
| Feature | 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack | 2019 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack |
| :— | :— | :— |
| Engine | Twin-Turbo 3.0L Straight-Six | 6.4L Naturally Aspirated V-8 (Hemi) |
| Horsepower | 550 hp | 485 hp |
| Curb Weight | 4,889 lbs | 4,352 lbs |
| 0–60 mph | 3.7 seconds | 3.9 seconds |
| Quarter-Mile | 12.1 seconds at 116 mph | 12.4 seconds at 114 mph |
| 70–0 mph Stop | 177 ft | 148 ft |
| Skidpad Grip | 0.90 g | 0.96 g |
| Available Tires | All-Season (Summer tires expected later) | Performance Summer |
Understanding the Numbers: Why the Charger Scat Pack is Slower
It’s easy to look at these numbers and think the new Charger is a step back. However, the data tells a more nuanced story about modern automotive engineering and production realities.
The Weight Disparity: 537 Pounds Makes a Difference
The most dramatic difference between the two vehicles is the curb weight. The 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack is significantly heavier than its predecessor. This weight penalty affects every aspect of performance, from acceleration to braking and handling.
Impact on Braking: The 177-foot stopping distance for the Charger is a direct result of its weight combined with all-season tires. The Challenger, being lighter and equipped with stickier summer tires, could stop much faster.
Impact on Handling: On the skidpad, the Charger’s 0.90 g rating shows it doesn’t grip the pavement as well as the lighter Challenger. This translates to less confidence through corners and slower lap times.
The Tire Factor: All-Season vs. Summer Performance
Dodge’s decision to not offer summer tires on the Charger Sixpack at launch is a major performance handicap. Summer tires provide significantly more grip in warm weather conditions, which is why the Challenger performed better in braking and cornering.
For buyers looking for the absolute best performance from the new Charger, waiting for the availability of summer tires is recommended. The Dodge Charger Scat Pack price, typically in the upper $50,000 range, is a considerable investment, and buyers should expect the best available performance for their money.
Acceleration Showdown: 0–60 and Quarter-Mile
Despite being heavier, the Charger Sixpack’s twin-turbo inline-six engine puts up a valiant fight in a straight line.
0–60 mph: Charger Wins
The 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack is undeniably quicker off the line. It hits 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds, beating the Challenger’s 3.9 seconds.
Why the Speed: The 3.0-liter twin-turbo Hurricane engine produces 550 hp, offering an impressive power-to-weight ratio for its class. This power advantage allows the Charger to overcome its heavier curb weight.
Real-World Difference: For the average driver, the extra two-tenths of a second might not be noticeable. However, for enthusiasts tracking performance, the Charger Sixpack is the faster car from a standstill.
Quarter-Mile: Charger Holds the Lead
The Charger continues to dominate in the quarter-mile, clocking in at 12.1 seconds at 116 mph. The Challenger’s 12.4-second quarter-mile looks good in the rearview mirror.
Engine Response: Even though the Challenger’s naturally aspirated V-8 feels more responsive in everyday driving, the Charger Sixpack’s twin-turbo setup allows it to reach higher speeds faster.
Cost vs. Performance: The Charger Sixpack price places it in direct competition with premium sports sedans, and its acceleration proves it belongs in that conversation.
The Financial Implications: Cost vs. Performance
For prospective buyers of the 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack, the decision hinges on whether they value raw acceleration or overall performance metrics like grip and stopping power.
