The Dodge Charger has long been regarded as one of the most iconic American muscle sedans. Combining impressive power with practical design, the Charger offers an exhilarating driving experience. However, one key factor that often comes up for enthusiasts and potential buyers is the weight of the vehicle.
The weight of the Dodge Charger plays a significant role in various aspects of its performance, including acceleration, handling, fuel efficiency, and safety. Whether you’re looking at the base model or a high-performance version like the SRT Hellcat, understanding the weight is essential for a complete picture of what the Charger has to offer.
In this guide, we will take an in-depth look at the weight of the Dodge Charger, explain how it varies across different trims, and provide insights into how this affects the car’s overall performance, handling, and practical use. We’ll also address related factors such as how the weight influences towing capacity, fuel efficiency, and much more.
What Is a Dodge Charger?
The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan that has been a staple of American automotive culture since its debut in 1966. Over the decades, the Charger has evolved from a two-door muscle car to a four-door powerhouse, blending the classic muscle car appeal with the practicality of a sedan. Today, the Charger is equipped with modern technology and safety features but retains the raw power and aggressive styling that made it a legend in the first place.
The Charger’s power and performance are built around a range of engine options, from the fuel-efficient 3.6L V6 to the high-performance 6.2L supercharged V8 engines found in the SRT Hellcat and SRT Hellcat Redeye trims. This lineup of powerful engines, combined with modern technology, makes the Charger a standout in the full-size sedan segment.
Types of Dodge Charger
The Dodge Charger lineup offers a variety of trims, each designed for different driving preferences. Here’s a look at the main trims available for the 2023 model year:
SXT
The SXT is the base model of the Charger and comes equipped with a 3.6L V6 engine. This engine provides a great balance of performance and fuel efficiency, offering 292 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque (395 Nm). The SXT is perfect for those looking for a daily driver with some muscle car appeal, thanks to its stylish design and robust performance.
GT
The GT trim also uses the 3.6L V6 engine but offers sportier performance features. The GT trim comes with upgraded suspension and performance brakes, making it more agile compared to the SXT. Additionally, the GT trim offers more aggressive styling, including sportier front and rear fascias. It’s available with both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, providing flexibility for various driving conditions.
R/T
The R/T trim is where the Charger starts to ramp up its performance. Powered by a 5.7L HEMI V8 engine, the R/T delivers 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque (536 Nm). This trim is for those who want the power of a V8 engine combined with the practicality of a full-size sedan. The R/T offers impressive acceleration and a more aggressive exhaust note, making it a thrill to drive.
Scat Pack
The Scat Pack trim takes performance to the next level, equipped with a 6.4L HEMI V8 engine that delivers 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque (644 Nm). This trim offers an exhilarating driving experience with even greater horsepower, better handling, and improved braking performance compared to the R/T. The Scat Pack is designed for those who want a true muscle car experience with four doors.
SRT Hellcat
The SRT Hellcat trim is the high-performance model of the Charger lineup. Powered by a supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 engine, the Hellcat produces an astonishing 717 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque (881 Nm). This trim is designed for serious performance enthusiasts, with features such as upgraded suspension, heavy-duty brakes, and specialized performance-tuned components to handle the immense power.
SRT Hellcat Redeye
The SRT Hellcat Redeye is an even more powerful version of the Hellcat. It features the same 6.2L supercharged V8 engine but tuned to produce 797 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque (958 Nm). This trim takes the Charger to the extreme, offering unparalleled acceleration, top speed, and track-ready performance.
How Much Does a Dodge Charger Weigh?
The weight of a Dodge Charger varies significantly across different trims and configurations. The curb weight of a vehicle is the weight of the car with all standard equipment, fluids, and a full tank of fuel, but without passengers or cargo. Below are the approximate curb weights of various 2023 Dodge Charger models:
- 2023 Dodge Charger SXT: Approximately 4,205 lbs (1,907 kg)
- 2023 Dodge Charger GT AWD: Approximately 4,191 lbs (1,899 kg)
- 2023 Dodge Charger R/T: Approximately 4,305 lbs (1,952 kg)
- 2023 Dodge Charger Scat Pack: Approximately 4,380 lbs (1,989 kg)
- 2023 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat: Approximately 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg)
As you can see, the weight increases significantly with the more powerful engine options. The V6-powered SXT and GT trims are relatively lighter compared to the V8 and supercharged V8 variants, which are heavier due to the larger engines and additional performance components.
Dodge Charger Weight Comparison Table
To give you a clearer picture of the weight differences across various models, here is a detailed comparison table of curb weights for different trims:
| Model Year | Trim Level | Engine Type | Curb Weight (lbs) | Curb Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | SXT | 3.6L V6 | 4,205 | 1,907 |
| 2023 | GT AWD | 3.6L V6 | 4,191 | 1,899 |
| 2023 | R/T | 5.7L V8 | 4,305 | 1,952 |
| 2023 | Scat Pack | 6.4L V8 | 4,380 | 1,989 |
| 2023 | SRT Hellcat | 6.2L Supercharged V8 | 4,500 | 2,041 |
| 2022 | SXT | 3.6L V6 | 4,150 | 1,883 |
| 2022 | GT | 3.6L V6 | 4,130 | 1,872 |
| 2022 | R/T | 5.7L V8 | 4,250 | 1,929 |
| 2022 | Scat Pack | 6.4L V8 | 4,320 | 1,960 |
| 2022 | SRT Hellcat | 6.2L Supercharged V8 | 4,400 | 1,996 |
Note: The weights listed are approximate and can vary depending on specific configurations and optional features.
Basics of Dodge Charger Weight
The weight of the Dodge Charger is a key factor that affects various performance aspects. Understanding these terms is essential for evaluating the vehicle’s overall capabilities.
Curb Weight
As mentioned earlier, curb weight is the total weight of the vehicle with all standard equipment, fluids, and a full tank of fuel, but without passengers or cargo. This is the weight that most people consider when thinking about a vehicle’s mass.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The GVWR refers to the maximum weight the vehicle can safely carry, including its own weight, passengers, cargo, and any additional accessories or equipment. It’s important to never exceed the GVWR as it can compromise the safety and performance of the vehicle.
Payload Capacity
Payload capacity is the difference between the GVWR and the curb weight. It represents how much weight the vehicle can carry in terms of passengers and cargo. For example, if the GVWR of the Charger is 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg) and its curb weight is 4,205 lbs (1,907 kg), the payload capacity would be 1,295 lbs (588 kg).
Factors Influencing Dodge Charger Weight
Several factors contribute to the Dodge Charger’s overall weight, including:
Engine Size and Type
The larger and more powerful the engine, the heavier the vehicle. The Charger’s V8 engines, such as the 5.7L HEMI and 6.2L Supercharged HEMI, are significantly heavier than the base 3.6L V6 engine, primarily due to the additional components and the need for more robust cooling systems.
Drivetrain Configuration
The drivetrain also affects weight. All-wheel-drive (AWD) models tend to weigh more than rear-wheel-drive (RWD) models due to the added components required for distributing power to all four wheels.
Body Materials
The use of materials such as aluminum and high-strength steel helps to reduce the vehicle’s overall weight while maintaining its durability and safety. However, since the Charger is a large and performance-oriented sedan, its weight will always be on the heavier side.
Additional Features
Optional features such as sunroofs, larger wheels, premium audio systems, and advanced safety technologies can increase the vehicle’s weight. These features are designed to enhance comfort, safety, and driving experience, but they also add weight to the vehicle.
Why Dodge Charger Weight Matters
The weight of the Dodge Charger has a direct impact on several key aspects of its performance:
Acceleration and Handling
Heavier vehicles often struggle with acceleration and can be less agile in handling. However, the Charger compensates for this weight with its powerful engine options, including its V6 and V8 engines, which deliver high horsepower and torque to ensure that the car remains fast and responsive. Advanced suspension systems and precise engineering also help the Charger handle its weight, offering a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
Fuel Efficiency
While heavier vehicles typically consume more fuel, the Charger manages to provide competitive fuel efficiency for its class. The 3.6L V6 models like the SXT and GT offer better fuel economy than their V8 counterparts. However, if you’re after raw performance, the R/T, Scat Pack, and SRT Hellcat trims offer far more power, which inevitably impacts fuel consumption.
Towing Capacity
The weight of the Charger also impacts its towing capacity. Although the Charger is primarily a performance sedan, the V8-powered models are capable of towing more weight than the V6 versions. For example, the R/T and Scat Pack trims, with their heavier engines, are equipped with stronger tow capabilities compared to the lighter SXT trim.
Additional Weight-Related Information
Here are some additional important details related to the Dodge Charger’s weight:
Tire Weight
Each tire on the Dodge Charger typically weighs between 30 and 35 lbs (13.6–15.9 kg), depending on the size and specifications. Larger tires, especially those on performance models like the SRT Hellcat, tend to weigh more due to their larger size and enhanced performance capabilities.
Tire Cost
Replacement tires for the Charger can range from $150 to $300 (or €140 to €280) per tire, depending on the tire brand and specifications. Performance tires for the SRT Hellcat may cost more due to their specialized design for handling high speeds.
Door Weight
Each door on the Charger weighs between 50 and 70 lbs (22.7–31.8 kg), influenced by the materials used (such as steel or aluminum) and the presence of additional features like power windows, locks, and airbags.
How Much Does a Dodge Charger Cost?
The price of the Dodge Charger varies significantly depending on the trim level and optional features. Here’s an overview of the starting prices for the 2023 model:
- SXT: Starting at approximately $35,000 (or €32,500).
- GT: Starting at approximately $40,000 (or €37,500).
- R/T: Starting at approximately $42,000 (or €39,500).
- Scat Pack: Starting at approximately $46,000 (or €43,000).
- SRT Hellcat: Starting at approximately $70,000 (or €65,000).
Prices can vary depending on location, dealer, and the inclusion of optional features or packages.
Conclusion
The Dodge Charger is a powerful and versatile vehicle, offering a range of trims to cater to different driving preferences. Whether you’re looking for a daily driver or a high-performance muscle car, understanding the weight of the Charger is crucial for making an informed decision. The weight impacts performance, handling, fuel efficiency, and towing capacity, so it’s essential to choose the trim and configuration that best fits your needs.
Fun Facts About Dodge Charger Weight
- The heaviest Dodge Charger is the 2023 SRT Hellcat, weighing approximately 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg).
- The lightest Dodge Charger is the 2006 model, which weighed around 3,800 lbs (1,724 kg).
- Despite being heavier, the Charger SRT Hellcat can outperform lighter vehicles like the Challenger in terms of top speed due to superior aerodynamics and suspension tuning.