How Much Does A Scat Pack Weigh

The Dodge Scat Pack models, found in both the Challenger and Charger lineups, have become iconic within the muscle car world, known for their perfect blend of power, design, and usability. The term “Scat Pack” is synonymous with enhanced performance, sitting just below the extreme SRT and Hellcat versions, offering immense power without crossing into the realm of pure high-performance track cars.

While enthusiasts focus heavily on horsepower and torque, understanding the weight of a Scat Pack is just as important. Weight impacts how the car accelerates, handles, and brakes, all of which are crucial for a true muscle car experience.

This article will explore everything you need to know about Scat Pack weight, from the variations between models and configurations to the factors influencing their weight and why it matters. You will also learn why the weight of a Scat Pack plays a key role in its overall performance, and we’ll guide you through choosing the right one based on your performance preferences.

What Is A Scat Pack?

A Dodge Scat Pack is a performance trim level available in the Challenger and Charger muscle cars. The term “Scat Pack” originated in the 1960s as part of Dodge’s effort to provide an affordable performance package for customers looking to experience the raw power of a muscle car without paying for the top-of-the-line SRT or Hellcat trims.

Key Features of a Scat Pack

Engine: The hallmark of every Scat Pack is its 6.4L HEMI V8 engine, which churns out 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, providing an exhilarating driving experience. This engine propels the vehicle from 0-60 mph in around 4.2 seconds, a time that rivals even some supercars.
Transmission: The Scat Pack features the option of a Tremec 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic for those preferring a smoother, easier driving experience.
Design: Scat Pack models come with performance-oriented design elements like wider fenders, unique badges, and aggressive styling cues that set them apart from the standard R/T models.
Suspension and Brakes: The Scat Pack features Brembo brakes for better stopping power and a specially-tuned suspension for improved handling and stability.
Performance-Oriented Features: Enhancements such as sport suspension, performance tires, and limited-slip differentials ensure that the Scat Pack handles every curve with precision and can handle high speeds with ease.

Weight plays an integral role in the balance between a Scat Pack’s power and handling. A heavier car, though more stable, may be less agile, while a lighter car accelerates faster but can feel less grounded at higher speeds.

See: How Much Does A Chevy Silverado Weigh

Types of Scat Pack

Dodge offers several different Scat Pack configurations. While they all share the same core engine, the variants differ in weight, handling, and driving experience based on the model chosen. Here’s a breakdown of the different types:

1. Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack

Body Style: Two-door coupe with the quintessential muscle car design.
Weight: 4,274 lbs (1,937 kg)
Performance Features: 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque.
Notable Features: Classic muscle car styling, rear-wheel drive, 20-inch wheels, aggressive front fascia.

2. Dodge Charger Scat Pack

Body Style: Four-door sedan, offering more space but with the same muscle car performance.
Weight: 4,385 lbs (1,989 kg)
Performance Features: 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque, sport suspension system.
Notable Features: More interior space than the Challenger, perfect for families wanting muscle car thrills.

3. Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody

Body Style: Two-door coupe with an enhanced widebody design for improved handling.
Weight: 4,298 lbs (1,950 kg)
Performance Features: Same 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque but with a wider stance, performance tires, and better suspension tuning.
Notable Features: Enhanced cornering ability and grip due to the widebody configuration.

4. Dodge Charger Scat Pack Widebody

Body Style: Four-door sedan with a widebody configuration for added stability.
Weight: 4,490 lbs (2,035 kg)
Performance Features: Same engine as other Scat Packs, but the widebody configuration adds extra stability and improved braking.
Notable Features: Perfect balance of power, space, and stability, designed for drivers who crave performance with the practicality of a sedan.

Read: How Much Does A Jeep Wrangler Weigh

How Much Does A Scat Pack Weigh?

The weight of a Scat Pack can vary depending on the specific model and configuration, but there are common weights for the different types. Let’s break down how much the Scat Pack weighs:

1. Full Scat Pack

A full Scat Pack, when equipped with all necessary fluids and ready for driving, generally weighs the following:

Challenger R/T Scat Pack: 4,274 lbs (1,937 kg)
Charger Scat Pack: 4,385 lbs (1,989 kg)
Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody: 4,298 lbs (1,950 kg)
Charger Scat Pack Widebody: 4,490 lbs (2,035 kg)

2. Typical Scat Pack

A typical Scat Pack, without any additional performance upgrades or optional features, will still have a similar weight to the full model. The weight usually falls in the range of 4,200–4,500 lbs (1,905–2,041 kg) depending on the body style and configuration.

3. Wet Scat Pack

The term “wet” Scat Pack refers to the car when it has all the fluids—oil, coolant, brake fluid, etc.—filled to their operating levels. This increases the weight slightly. A Challenger R/T Scat Pack, for example, may weigh around 4,320 lbs (1,960 kg) when fully “wet,” as the additional fluids add mass.

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Comparison Table: Scat Pack Weights by Model

Model	Weight (Pounds)	Weight (Kilograms)	Body Style	Features	Cost (USD)	Top Speed	0-60 mph Time
Challenger R/T Scat Pack	4,274	1,937	Two-door coupe	6.4L HEMI V8, Brembo Brakes	~$42,000	175 mph	4.2 seconds
Charger Scat Pack	4,385	1,989	Four-door sedan	Sport suspension, 485 hp, 475 lb-ft	~$45,000	155 mph	4.5 seconds
Challenger R/T Scat Pack WB	4,298	1,950	Two-door coupe WB	Widebody, better handling	~$45,000	175 mph	4.2 seconds
Charger Scat Pack WB	4,490	2,035	Four-door sedan WB	Widebody, enhanced brakes, handling	~$47,000	155 mph	4.4 seconds

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Basics of Scat Pack Weight

Weight plays a key role in the overall performance of the Scat Pack. For muscle cars, weight impacts acceleration, handling, and braking. In simpler terms, heavier vehicles generally have better traction, which can be beneficial for high-speed driving or braking. However, too much weight can affect acceleration times and handling precision, which is why Dodge engineers aim to strike a balance. While the Scat Pack isn’t the lightest muscle car on the market, its weight is balanced out by its 6.4L HEMI V8 engine, allowing it to perform impressively on both straightaways and curves.

Factors Influencing Scat Pack Weight

The weight of a Scat Pack model is shaped by several key factors, each contributing to the overall driving experience, handling, and performance of the vehicle. Below, we dive deeper into the individual aspects that influence the weight of these muscle cars.

1. Body Style

The body style of a vehicle plays a significant role in determining its weight, and this is especially true for muscle cars like the Dodge Challenger and Charger Scat Pack. A coupe (such as the Challenger) is naturally lighter than a sedan (like the Charger), primarily due to differences in the structure and size of the vehicle.

Coupes tend to have a more compact structure with fewer components compared to sedans. They are built for performance, which means they have fewer components dedicated to passenger and cargo space, making them lighter. This compactness allows for quicker acceleration, better handling, and improved cornering, all of which are crucial for a muscle car.
Sedans, on the other hand, are built to offer more passenger space, additional features, and larger trunks for storage. These added elements contribute to extra weight, as sedans typically use longer chassis and more structural support. The Charger Scat Pack weighs more than the Challenger Scat Pack due to the additional space and components needed for a four-door design and larger frame.

In essence, body style directly affects a car’s curb weight, and while the Charger Scat Pack offers more comfort and space, the Challenger sacrifices a bit of interior space to maintain a lighter frame, enhancing its driving dynamics.

2. Widebody vs. Standard

The Widebody versions of the Challenger and Charger Scat Pack models add considerable weight compared to the standard models. The reason for this lies in the enhanced design features that come with the widebody configuration, which are focused on improving performance and stability.

Widebody Design: The inclusion of wider fenders, larger tires, and a broader track width significantly increases the weight of the vehicle. The wider body provides more grip and stability, allowing the car to handle high-speed cornering and aggressive driving better than the standard models. This is achieved through wider tires and more substantial wheel wells, which improve traction but at the cost of added mass.
Reinforced Chassis and Suspension: Widebody Scat Packs are often equipped with more reinforced suspension systems and stiffer chassis to handle the additional stress from the enhanced performance. These upgrades, while improving handling, inevitably add weight. For instance, the Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody weighs around 4,298 lbs (1,950 kg), a few hundred pounds more than the standard Challenger R/T Scat Pack due to these enhancements.

While the extra weight of the widebody models may result in slightly reduced acceleration compared to the standard models, the benefits are evident in terms of cornering stability, better tire grip, and overall performance on both straightaways and curvy tracks. The widebody configuration strikes a balance between additional weight and enhanced stability, especially during high-speed driving.

3. Material Use

One of the critical factors influencing a Scat Pack’s weight is the materials used in its construction. Dodge combines various materials like high-strength steel, aluminum, and other lightweight composites to strike a balance between strength, durability, and weight.

High-Strength Steel: Steel is strong and durable, providing excellent structural integrity to the vehicle. It is primarily used in the car’s frame and body structure, providing essential safety features and rigidity. However, steel is relatively heavy compared to other materials, contributing to the overall weight of the vehicle.
Aluminum: To counteract the added weight of steel, Dodge also uses aluminum in certain parts of the Scat Pack. Aluminum is lighter than steel and is often used for components like the hood, doors, fenders, and some sections of the suspension system. The lightweight nature of aluminum helps offset the heavier steel components, but it is also more expensive, which is reflected in the overall cost of the vehicle.
Other Lightweight Materials: In some cases, Dodge uses composite materials or advanced polymers to further reduce weight without compromising safety or performance. These materials are often used in interior panels, trim pieces, and other non-structural components. However, these materials are typically used sparingly in muscle cars, as the focus remains on strength and durability for high-performance use.

The strategic use of both heavy-duty steel and lightweight aluminum helps Dodge achieve the perfect balance between performance and weight. While steel adds strength and durability, aluminum reduces the overall weight, allowing for a better power-to-weight ratio.

4. Optional Features

When purchasing a Scat Pack, buyers can opt for a range of additional features that, while enhancing the driving experience, can add weight to the car. The inclusion of advanced technology, luxury features, or upgraded performance options can increase the car’s overall mass.

Sunroof: The addition of a sunroof adds weight due to the additional glass and mechanisms required. While a sunroof enhances the driving experience by letting in more light and air, it can slightly increase the vehicle’s weight.
Premium Audio Systems: Upgraded audio systems and sound insulation also contribute to the weight of the car. The speakers, amplifiers, and additional wiring required for a premium sound system add extra mass to the vehicle.
Advanced Safety Features: Newer safety features, such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and additional sensors or cameras, add more components to the car, which increases weight. These features are critical for modern vehicles, but they come with the trade-off of added weight due to the increased electronic systems.
Interior and Comfort Upgrades: Leather seats, heated and ventilated seats, premium upholstery, and advanced interior technology also add to the weight. The addition of these features can make the Scat Pack feel more luxurious but also adds to its curb weight.

While these features certainly improve the comfort, usability, and overall driving experience, they can be a deciding factor for buyers who are looking to minimize weight or optimize performance. For example, opting for a base model Scat Pack without these additional options can help maintain a lighter overall weight, especially for track-focused enthusiasts.

Why Scat Pack Weight Matters

The weight of a Scat Pack has a profound effect on its performance, influencing everything from handling and stability to acceleration and braking. While muscle cars are often celebrated for their powerful engines and striking design, the car’s mass is just as important to ensure that all the power is harnessed effectively. Below, we delve into why the weight of a Scat Pack matters and how it impacts each critical performance metric.

1. Handling and Stability

Handling and stability are arguably the most significant aspects affected by weight. In terms of driving dynamics, a heavier car generally offers better traction. This is because the added weight presses the tires more firmly onto the road, improving grip, especially in high-speed cornering or during heavy braking. This added grip allows the vehicle to hold the road better, reducing the likelihood of slipping or skidding in more challenging conditions.

Heavier Cars and Stability: For a car like the Charger Scat Pack, which weighs around 4,385 lbs (1,989 kg), the added mass means better control when driving at high speeds or cornering. The extra weight ensures that the car stays grounded, providing more confidence for the driver in aggressive driving scenarios. This stability is vital for vehicles designed for performance, where the driver might be pushing the car to its limits, especially during high-speed turns on a track or even on twisty, mountainous roads.
The Trade-off: However, excessive weight can become a disadvantage in tight or quick turns. The added mass makes the car less nimble, and it takes more time for the car to change direction. A lighter car, in contrast, can move more easily and feel more responsive. This is why Dodge has carefully fine-tuned the suspension system of the Scat Pack. Features like sport-tuned suspension, reinforced chassis, and larger wheels ensure that even with its additional weight, the Scat Pack performs exceptionally well in handling. The widebody configuration, which adds more width for better stability, also contributes to handling by providing a more planted stance on the road.

Ultimately, the handling of a Scat Pack is all about finding the sweet spot between weight and grip. Dodge has designed the Scat Pack’s suspension and tire setup to provide optimal performance, allowing for responsive handling without sacrificing stability. Whether on a racetrack or the open road, the Scat Pack delivers excellent stability while maintaining a fun, controlled driving experience.

2. Acceleration

While weight certainly affects the acceleration of a vehicle, the sheer power of the HEMI V8 engine in the Scat Pack helps mitigate the impact of the added mass. A lighter vehicle generally accelerates more quickly because it has less weight to move. In muscle cars, this is particularly important, as the performance is a key part of their appeal. However, the Scat Pack is engineered to overcome its weight disadvantage with exceptional power.

The Weight and Acceleration Trade-off: Lighter vehicles, by nature, require less energy to get moving. That’s why sports cars and supercars with smaller engines can sometimes beat heavier cars in acceleration, especially in short-distance sprints. On the other hand, heavier cars, like the Charger Scat Pack (weighing 4,385 lbs / 1,989 kg), need more horsepower to compensate for the extra mass. Thankfully, the 485 horsepower produced by the 6.4L HEMI V8 engine is more than enough to overcome the added weight, allowing the Scat Pack to achieve an impressive 0-60 mph time of about 4.2 seconds.
HEMI V8 Power: The HEMI V8 engine is a key component in ensuring that the Scat Pack performs impressively in terms of acceleration despite its heavier weight. The engine’s 475 lb-ft of torque ensures that the vehicle has plenty of low-end power to move the car with force, allowing it to accelerate quickly off the line even with the added mass. The power of the engine gives the Scat Pack an edge over many other vehicles, allowing it to keep pace with lighter vehicles despite its heavier weight.

In simple terms, the Scat Pack’s combination of a HEMI engine, advanced transmission, and engine tuning allows it to deliver exceptional acceleration without the typical lag that can occur with heavier vehicles. It’s a perfect example of how power and weight work together to provide a thrilling driving experience.

3. Braking

Braking is another critical performance metric that is heavily influenced by weight. Heavier vehicles require more stopping power, and braking distances naturally increase with weight. This is because more force is needed to decelerate a car with greater mass. When driving a vehicle like the Charger Scat Pack or Challenger R/T Scat Pack, the car’s weight has to be taken into account, especially when it’s traveling at high speeds.

Brake System Requirements: Given that the Scat Pack models are designed to deliver high-performance driving at high speeds, they are equipped with Brembo brakes, one of the best braking systems in the automotive world. The Brembo braking system allows the car to handle its mass efficiently, providing powerful braking even under extreme conditions. This is essential for ensuring that the car can stop quickly and safely, whether on the track or during high-speed road driving.
Increased Stopping Power: The Brembo brakes are designed to deal with the heat generated during heavy braking, allowing for consistent and reliable performance. These brakes, combined with the car’s reinforced chassis and sport-tuned suspension, enable the Scat Pack to manage its weight effectively, ensuring that the driver can have full control over the car even when braking from high speeds. Larger brake rotors and performance brake pads provide superior stopping power, allowing the Scat Pack to perform consistently on both the track and the road.

While it’s true that heavier cars require more braking force, advanced brake systems like Brembo make sure that Scat Packs perform safely, with minimized stopping distances and enhanced control under hard braking scenarios.

How Much Does a Scat Pack Cost?

The cost of a Scat Pack varies depending on the specific model and the optional features included:

Challenger R/T Scat Pack: Approximately $42,000 for the base model.
Charger Scat Pack: Starting around $45,000 for the base model.
Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody: Approximately $45,000.
Charger Scat Pack Widebody: Starting at $47,000.

The prices can increase with additional packages, such as performance upgrades, premium interior options, or tech features.

Standard Dimensions/Height of a Scat Pack in Different Regions

Although Scat Pack models are sold worldwide, their dimensions generally remain the same, with minor adjustments based on local regulations:

Challenger R/T Scat Pack: Length – 190 inches (4,826 mm), Width – 76 inches (1,930 mm), Height – 57 inches (1,448 mm).
Charger Scat Pack: Length – 200 inches (5,080 mm), Width – 79 inches (2,007 mm), Height – 58 inches (1,473 mm).

These dimensions make the Scat Pack a substantial presence on the road, ensuring both comfort and performance.

Applications and Uses of a Scat Pack

Scat Packs are designed for performance but also offer a range of practical uses:

Daily Driving: Despite their raw power, Scat Pack models are still street-legal and comfortable for daily use.
Track Days: With a few modifications, Scat Packs can be track-ready, offering impressive lap times.
Performance Driving: These cars are built for those who want to feel the thrill of high-speed acceleration and precision cornering.

How to Choose a Scat Pack Based on Weight

Choosing the right Scat Pack model requires evaluating a variety of factors, especially when considering how weight impacts the overall driving experience. Weight influences everything from acceleration and handling to braking and overall performance, so it’s important to align your driving preferences, space needs, and performance requirements with the right Scat Pack configuration. Below, we break down how to choose the ideal Scat Pack model based on your needs and how weight plays a crucial role in each category.

1. Driving Preferences: Prioritizing Acceleration

When selecting a Scat Pack, acceleration is often a primary factor for enthusiasts. Weight has a direct impact on how quickly a car can accelerate, as lighter vehicles require less power to move. This means that for those who prioritize fast launches, quick 0-60 mph times, or even quarter-mile runs, weight plays a major role in how fast the car can go.

Challenger vs. Charger: The Challenger Scat Pack, being a two-door coupe, is typically lighter than the Charger Scat Pack sedan. For those seeking the best acceleration, the Challenger may be the better option due to its relatively lighter weight. Weighing approximately 4,274 lbs (1,937 kg), the Challenger benefits from a lower weight-to-power ratio, which results in faster acceleration times. The Challenger R/T Scat Pack can achieve 0-60 mph in around 4.2 seconds, and its lighter frame allows it to feel more agile and responsive during launches.
Charger Scat Pack: On the other hand, the Charger Scat Pack, which weighs 4,385 lbs (1,989 kg), while still impressively fast with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.5 seconds, does face a slight disadvantage in acceleration due to its heavier mass. However, the difference in acceleration between the two models is minimal, and if you’re looking for more interior space and comfort, the Charger still provides a thrilling experience without a major sacrifice in speed.

If pure acceleration is a key factor for you and weight is a priority, then the Challenger R/T Scat Pack may be the better choice. Its lighter design and shorter body offer an advantage when it comes to quick launches and high-performance sprints.

2. Space Needs: Balancing Power with Room

For many buyers, interior space is just as important as performance. If you need a muscle car that provides ample room for passengers, luggage, or more comfortable long drives, the Charger Scat Pack might be the better option despite the extra weight.

Charger Scat Pack: The Charger Scat Pack is a four-door sedan, offering more space for passengers and additional cargo. The sedan body style allows for more legroom, especially in the back seats, making it a better choice for families or anyone who plans to use the car for longer trips or daily commuting. Despite the extra weight (approximately 4,385 lbs / 1,989 kg), the Charger Scat Pack still delivers a thrilling driving experience, offering the same 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque as the Challenger. However, its slightly heavier weight does reduce its agility in tight corners, but for everyday driving and practical use, the Charger Scat Pack offers a more comfortable and spacious ride.
Challenger Scat Pack: The Challenger, being a two-door coupe, has a more compact interior. While it’s still capable of seating four passengers, the rear seats are often less roomy than those in the Charger. If you frequently have passengers in the back seat, or if rear-seat comfort is a priority, the Charger may be the better option. However, for those who are fine with a more performance-focused cockpit and who don’t need as much rear-seat space, the Challenger provides a fantastic driving experience that’s more attuned to individual driving.

For those who need more space without sacrificing muscle car performance, the Charger Scat Pack offers a perfect blend of comfort and speed. However, if interior space isn’t as important and you’re seeking a more compact, agile muscle car, the Challenger is the better choice.

3. Performance Needs: Widebody Configuration for Superior Handling and Stability

When it comes to handling and stability at high speeds, the added weight of a Widebody configuration can be a game-changer. While it does add mass to the vehicle, it also improves grip, cornering, and overall stability, making it ideal for performance enthusiasts who want a car that can handle extreme driving conditions.

Widebody Models: Both the Challenger and Charger Scat Pack offer a Widebody option. The Widebody versions include wider tires, wider fenders, and reinforced suspension systems. These modifications improve the car’s grip on the road, making it more stable when taking sharp turns at high speeds or during heavy braking. The extra weight of the Widebody configuration, which is typically around 4,298 lbs (1,950 kg) for the Challenger and 4,490 lbs (2,035 kg) for the Charger, enhances its overall performance in terms of stability but can slightly reduce agility in tight corners due to the additional mass.
Performance at High Speeds: The Widebody design offers improved high-speed stability and traction, particularly beneficial for track days or high-performance driving. For those who plan to take their Scat Pack to the track or engage in aggressive driving, the Widebody models are engineered to deliver superior handling. The added width and more aggressive tires provide enhanced cornering stability and reduce the likelihood of understeering or oversteering.
Standard Scat Pack: If lightweight agility is more important to you and you don’t plan on pushing the car to its high-performance limits, the standard models without the Widebody might better suit your needs. While these cars are still capable of excellent performance, they will feel slightly more nimble and responsive during quick turns. The Challenger R/T Scat Pack and Charger Scat Pack without the Widebody option are lighter and offer more agile handling, but they may not provide the same level of high-speed stability as their widebody counterparts.

For those seeking the ultimate in performance and high-speed stability, the Widebody configuration is the best choice. The extra weight from the wider tires and reinforced suspension is a small trade-off for improved cornering grip and better overall handling at high speeds.

How Fast Is a Scat Pack Challenger?

0-60 mph: The Challenger Scat Pack accelerates in about 4.2 seconds.
Top Speed: It can reach speeds of 175 mph (282 km/h).
Quarter-Mile Time: Approximately 12.7 seconds.

These figures place the Scat Pack Challenger in the upper echelon of performance muscle cars.

How Many Gallons Does a Scat Pack Hold?

The fuel tank of a Scat Pack is designed to allow for long drives without frequent refueling:

Challenger R/T Scat Pack: 18.5 gallons (70 liters).
Charger Scat Pack: 18.5 gallons (70 liters).

This large fuel capacity is crucial for maintaining high-performance driving without worrying about running low on fuel during spirited drives.

Conclusion

The Dodge Scat Pack models represent a powerful blend of performance, comfort, and muscle car tradition. Understanding their weight is key to appreciating how they handle, accelerate, and brake under different conditions. Whether you choose the Challenger or Charger, or whether you opt for a Widebody version, each Scat Pack offers thrilling performance that balances raw power with everyday usability.

Fun Facts

Legacy: The Scat Pack name pays tribute to Dodge’s performance roots from the 1960s.
Widebody Advantage: The Widebody models add weight but also improve grip, making the car more stable.
Material Use: Dodge uses a mix of high-strength steel and lightweight aluminum to balance durability with performance.
Performance Focused: Despite their weight, Scat Pack models maintain exceptional fuel efficiency for their class, especially considering their high horsepower engines.