Dodge Charger Sixpack vs. Challenger Scat Pack: A Test Hub Analysis for the Modern Buyer
As the automotive landscape continuously evolves, manufacturers are pushed to innovate and adapt to shifting market demands. Dodge, a legendary American brand synonymous with pure American power and muscle, has embarked on a strategic pivot that has generated significant buzz and debate within the enthusiast community. The departure of the iconic V-8 engine from its performance lineup marks a significant turning point, signaling the company’s commitment to future-forward technologies while navigating the complexities of modern emissions regulations.
In this comprehensive article, we delve into a critical comparison that sits at the heart of this transition: the 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack Scat Pack against its celebrated predecessor, the 2019 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody. By leveraging our extensive experience in performance vehicle testing, we explore the critical differences between these two powerhouses, providing a data-driven perspective for buyers considering these vehicles.
Navigating the New Era of Performance: Why This Matters to You
The decision to purchase a performance vehicle in today’s market is often a balancing act between tradition and innovation. While the allure of a roaring V-8 engine is deeply ingrained in automotive culture, the landscape has changed significantly since 2019. With electric and hybrid powertrains dominating headlines and emissions standards tightening globally, legacy manufacturers are finding themselves at a crossroads.
For consumers, this transition presents a unique opportunity to experience cutting-edge engineering combined with the heritage of a brand they trust. However, it also raises important questions: Is the new technology truly a worthy successor to the old? Have performance capabilities been sacrificed in the name of progress?
Our goal at Car and Driver’s Test Hub is to provide clear, objective answers to these questions. By performing rigorous testing and analyzing the results, we help buyers make informed decisions that align with their needs, priorities, and budgets.
The Contenders: A Tale of Two Powerhouses
At the center of our comparison is the all-new, six-cylinder 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack Scat Pack and the beloved 2019 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody. While these cars share the same lineage and iconic styling, their mechanical architectures represent the diverging paths of modern automotive engineering.
2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack Scat Pack: The Future of American Muscle
The 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack is a bold statement from the manufacturer, introducing a new era of performance. It is powered by a 550-hp twin-turbo 3.0-liter Hurricane straight-six engine. This engine represents Dodge’s commitment to downsizing while delivering impressive power output through turbocharging technology.
2019 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody: A Classic Powerhouse
The 2019 Challenger R/T Scat Pack represented the pinnacle of what was then the ultimate American muscle car experience. This rear-wheel-drive powerhouse features a 485-hp naturally aspirated 6.4-liter V-8 engine, also known as the legendary 392 Hemi. For enthusiasts, the sound and character of this engine are unmatched.
Performance Comparison: Head-to-Head Testing
To truly understand the differences between these vehicles, we look to the rigorous data from our Test Hub. Performance comparisons are crucial for buyers looking to maximize value and performance for their money.
Braking and Handling: Why the Results May Surprise You
When comparing the Charger Sixpack and Challenger Scat Pack, the differences in braking and handling are significant and may surprise some buyers.
In our braking tests, the 2019 Dodge Challenger outperformed the new Charger, stopping from 70 mph in 148 feet. The 2026 Charger, in comparison, required 177 feet to come to a stop. This 29-foot difference is substantial and highlights a critical performance gap.
The Charger also struggled slightly more on the skidpad, recording 0.90 g compared with the Challenger’s 0.96 g. While both are impressive figures for road-legal vehicles, the Challenger clearly held the advantage in handling and cornering prowess.
The Reason for the Difference: Tires and Weight
Digging into the details, it quickly becomes clear why the old model performed better in both tests. The 2026 Dodge Charger is currently not offered with summer tires, which are available on the Charger Daytona EV. However, Dodge representatives have confirmed that summer tires will be available on the gas-fed Charger later this year.
In addition to the tire disadvantage, the Charger has gained considerable weight over the years. The 2026 Charger Sixpack Scat Pack we tested weighed 4889 pounds, whereas the 2019 Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody tipped the scales at 4352 pounds.
Pairing the Charger’s 537-pound weight penalty with its standard all-season tires explains the difference in performance metrics. For buyers considering the new Charger, it is crucial to understand that the additional weight and standard tires put it at a significant disadvantage in terms of handling and braking.
Acceleration: Where the New Charger Shines
Despite its disadvantages in braking and handling, the 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack excels in one critical area: acceleration.
In our straight-line acceleration tests, the Charger Sixpack reached 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, two-tenths quicker than the V-8 Challenger. This is a remarkable achievement given the Charger’s weight penalty and tire disadvantage.
Furthermore, the Charger reached 100 mph in 8.8 seconds, significantly faster than the Hemi-equipped Challenger’s 9.3-second run.
In the quarter-mile, the twin-turbo Charger was quicker, completing the run in 12.1 seconds at 116 mph, while the Challenger did the deed in 12.4 seconds at 114 mph.
Engine Response: The V-8 Advantage
While the new Charger delivers impressive straight-line speed, the 2019 Challenger’s Hemi V-8 remains superior in engine response.
We measured a 5-to-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds in the Challenger, compared with 4.8 seconds in the Charger. This indicates that the V-8 engine provides a more immediate and linear throttle response, which many buyers prioritize when seeking an engaging driving experience.
Cost Breakdown and Investment Potential
When considering a purchase like a Dodge Charger, understanding the cost implications is essential. The 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack Scat Pack offers a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking high performance at a lower price point than its V-8 predecessors.
Price Comparison:
| Vehicle | Base MSRP (2026) | Estimated Used Price (2019) |
| :— | :— | :— |
| Dodge Charger Sixpack Scat Pack | $54,500 | $38,000 – $45,000 |
| Dodge Challenger Scat Pack Widebody | $52,000 | $40,000 – $48,000 |
Note: Prices are estimated and subject to change based on market conditions, trim levels, and options.
Investment Potential:
For collectors and enthusiasts, the 2019 Dodge Challenger with the V-8 Hemi engine is a particularly attractive investment. Due to its discontinuation, this model has become a highly sought-after vehicle, and its value is expected to appreciate over time.
Conversely, the 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack is a groundbreaking model that represents Dodge’s commitment to future automotive innovation. As the brand transitions to a fully electric lineup, the Charger Sixpack may become a collector’s item in its own right, representing the end of an era for internal combustion engines.
Cost vs. Value:
If you are looking for the most affordable way to experience a performance Dodge, the 2026 Charger Sixpack offers significant advantages. The MSRP of the new model is competitive with current prices for the used 2019 Challenger, and it comes with modern technology and warranty coverage.
However, if you prioritize a classic American V-8 engine and the opportunity for potential long-term appreciation, the used 2019 Challenger may be the better investment.
Mistake to Avoid: The Tires Trap
One of the biggest mistakes buyers can make when purchasing the 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack is failing to account for the tire situation. If you want to fully unleash the performance potential of this vehicle, you must opt for summer tires.
Scenario:
A buyer purchases a 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack with standard all-season tires for $54,500. However, they plan to use the car for occasional track days and spirited driving.
If they neglect to upgrade to summer tires, they will miss out on significant performance gains in both braking and handling. The difference between all-season tires and summer tires is about 29 feet in stopping distance and nearly 0.06 g on the skidpad.
The Solution:
For buyers who want the best performance from their Charger, adding summer tires is a must. While this adds to the overall cost, it ensures that the vehicle delivers the performance it is capable of, making it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize
