Shop New Dodge Charger
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This is the final year to compare the Charger vs. Challenger and take home a new version of the rumbling muscle car you've always dreamed of, as they are due to be reimagined and electrified soon. Fortunately, Bice Motors makes it easy to take home either icon of this historic year for Dodge muscle cars. Swing by and explore our Dodge Charger or Challenger lease deals, but first, learn which model is the best choice for your taste with our guide below.
Charger vs. Challenger: Their History and Purpose
The Charger vs. Challenger story began with the 1966 Charger.
Dodge automakers created the Charger to reflect the demand for a midsize model with upscale features, a spacious interior, daily usability, and, most importantly, massive power. It would go on to fight in NASCAR (spawning icons like the winged Dodge Charger Daytona) and star in several hit films.
Compare Dodge Charger vs. Challenger histories, and you'll find connections that lead to this day. The Challenger was based on the third-generation Plymouth Barracuda and stepped in as a smaller, sportier alternative to the Charger during its 1969 debut. From the SCCA Trans Am series to small-town drag strips, the four headlights and long hood were, and still are, instantly recognizable.
The beyond-legendary 426 HEMI V-8 with 425 horsepower could be found in either classic then, which is a strong parallel to the Charger vs. Challenger Hellcat models of today.
So, when comparing the Charger vs. Challenger, look back through history. The Charger is the larger family-oriented muscle car, and the Challenger is the monstrous coupe for drivers who seek top muscle.
Charger vs. Challenger Trims and Pricing
Trims on both sides of the Dodge Charger vs. Challenger comparison include:
- SXT
- GT
- R/T
- Scat Pack
- Hellcat
- Hellcat Redeye
As you compare Charger vs. Challenger trims, you'll find some differences, like how only the Challenger can be had in the Demon 170 trim with 1,025 horsepower. However, the Charger Hellcat models come standard with the Widebody package, while the Challenger Hellcat models have it as an option.
The Charger does cost more than the Challenger, though. For example, the SXT trim starts at $31,965 MSRP1 on the Challenger and starts at $34,230 MSRP1 on the Charger. This is the case as you compare Charger vs. Challenger trim pricing in its entirety.
2023 Dodge Charger vs. 2023 Dodge Challenger Performance Specs
A 3.6-liter V-6 accompanies either model's SXT and GT trim. Charger vs. Challenger SXT and GT trims both include available AWD for inclement-weather stability and confidence.
However, this V-6 engine makes 292 horsepower in a Charger RWD, 300 in a Charger AWD, and 303 horsepower in any Challenger. Both models can deliver an EPA-estimated 19/30 MPG (City/Highway)2 with this V-6 and RWD.
Despite this power difference, MotorTrend found that both the Challenger SXT and Charger SXT went from 0 to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds.3, 4 This is mainly due to the Charger sedan's sleeker, more aerodynamic design.
You can learn more about these V-6 trims with our Dodge Challenger SXT vs. GT comparison.
Moving on, we see a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 in both the Charger and Challenger R/T. The Charger R/T makes 370 horsepower, while the Challenger R/T makes 375 horsepower. Like the SXT models, MotorTrend reviews show an equal 0-60 time of 5.0 seconds3, 4 for both R/T models.
Looking at the Charger vs. Challenger Scat Pack trims, things even out with both models making 485 horsepower from a gigantic 6.4-liter HEMI V-8.
Dodge Charger Hellcat vs. Dodge Challenger Hellcat specs are furious across the board. Both models have 717 horsepower, but the Challenger Hellcat gets 656 pound-feet of torque from its 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V-8, while the Charger Hellcat makes 650 pound-feet from the same engine.
However, once again, MotorTrend reviews show the Hellcat models tie with a 3.9-second 0-60 mph sprint.3, 4
Rounding out Charger vs. Challenger specs, it's well worth noting that the Challenger comes with a standard six-speed manual transmission on its V-8 trims. In contrast, the Charger only offers an eight-speed automatic (which can be found available in the Challenger, too).
| 2023 Dodge Charger SXT | 2023 Dodge Challenger SXT | |
| Starting MSRP: | $34,2301 | $31,9651 |
| Engine: | 3.6-liter V-6 | 3.6-liter V-6 |
| Drivetrain: | RWD or AWD | RWD or AWD |
| Horsepower: | 292 (RWD) or 300 (AWD) | 303 |
| Torque: | 260 lb-ft with RWD / 264 lb-ft with AWD | 268 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH (Via MotorTrend): | 6.0 seconds3 | 6.0 seconds4 |
| EPA-Estimated MPG (City/Highway): | 19/302 with RWD | 19/302 with RWD |
| Seats: | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Volume: | 105 cu. ft. | 94 cu. ft. |
| Cargo Space: | 16.5 cu. ft. | 16.2 cu. ft. |
| Rear Seat Legroom: | 40.1 in | 33.1 in |
Dodge Charger vs. Dodge Challenger Exterior Design Comparison
Charger vs. Challenger models head down separate paths when you compare their exteriors.
The new Dodge Challenger for sale is a direct tribute to the original model, with heritage defining every body line and detail. Meanwhile, the new Dodge Charger is a modern take on the original fastback that focuses on sleekness while using classic cues as accents.
In the Challenger, the four headlights, rectangular grille, long hood, coupe roof, and the shape of the C-pillar are all direct references to the 1970 Challenger. The Charger has some tributes of this nature, including the fastback roof and "co*ke bottle" styling of the doors. Otherwise, it is a fully modern design.
There's no winner here; Charger vs. Challenger exterior design is a purely subjective comparison.
Dodge Charger vs. Challenger Interior Design and Space Comparison
The interior designs found in our new Dodge Charger inventory and new Dodge Challenger selection are nearly identical.
They're modern, driver-centric co*ckpits. However, aside from minor things like air vent shapes, the only noticeable difference is that the Challenger separates its infotainment display section and center console for a more commanding style, while the Charger integrates them into one panel for a sleeker look.
Interior space, though, is the most significant difference of Charger vs. Challenger interiors. Naturally, the four-door Charger sedan has more room than the two-door Challenger coupe. You'll find 11 cubic feet more passenger room and 0.3 cubic feet more trunk space than in the Challenger. While front-seat measurements are nearly identical, the Charger offers an extra 7 inches of rear-seat legroom, a massive advantage if you plan on driving with more than one adult passenger.
Charger vs. Challenger Technology Features
As a final measure when comparing our Dodge Challenger lease deals to our Charger finance specials, the higher-priced Charger does include extra technology features as standard. Using the SXT-trim Charger vs. Challenger standard features, here's how the Charger exceeds the Challenger:
- Challenger SXT: Uconnect® 4 Infotainment with 7-inch touch-screen display, six-speaker Alpine® premium audio system; Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™ integration
- Charger SXT: Uconnect® 4C Infotainment with 8.4-inch touch-screen display; six-speaker Alpine® premium audio system; 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot; Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™ integration
So, does the Challenger or Charger suit your desire for muscle car thrills and daily driving satisfaction? Whatever your answer may be, the Bice Motors team in Alexander City, AL, will be here to help you discover what makes these Dodge siblings such legends. Visit us today to test-drive either model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is faster: the Dodge Charger or Challenger?
MotorTrend reviews show that both the Charger and Challenger go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds3, 4 as SXT models, 5.0 seconds3, 4 as R/T models, 4.2 seconds3, 4 as Scat Pack models, and 3.9 seconds3, 4 as Hellcat models. While the Charger has a bit less power in most equivalent trims, it closes the gap with its more aerodynamic body.
What are the key differences between the 2023 Dodge Charger and Challenger?
The key difference between the 2023 Dodge Charger and Challenger is that the Charger is a four-door sedan, and the Challenger is a two-door coupe. While interior room and design philosophy differences are present, these siblings share most of their spirit. Both SXT models can deliver an EPA-estimated 19/30 MPG (City/Highway)2 and do 0-60 mph in 6.0 seconds.3, 4
Which 2023 Dodge muscle car has more features: the Charger or Challenger?
Charger vs. Challenger features are typically equal to one another, but the Charger has some desirable extras like a standard Uconnect 4C infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touch screen vs. the standard 7.0-inch touch-screen version in the Challenger. However, keep in mind that the Dodge Charger has a higher starting price than the Dodge Challenger.
1MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title and registration fees. Starting at price refers to the base model, optional equipment not included. A more expensive model may be shown. Pricing and offers may change at any time without notification. To get full pricing details, see your dealer.
2EPA estimated 19 city / 30 hwy MPG with 3.6-liter V-6 and eight-speed automatic transmission, RWD. Actual mileage may vary.
3This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.motortrend.com/cars/dodge/charger/
4This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.motortrend.com/cars/dodge/challenger/
