How Does the Most Powerful Chrysler 300 Model Compare With the Craziest Dodge Chargers?
In this article:
The Chrysler 300 and the Dodge Charger have been siblings since the first LX-platform models rolled off the assembly line. However, despite their many similarities, the two have very different approaches to V8 power delivery. Still, both LD-platform models are soon-to-be-discontinued, but only after celebratory models like the final 300C close the book. So, how does the swan-song 2023 Chrysler 300C compare with the best of the Dodge Charger lineup, like the SRT Hellcat?
Does the Chrysler 300 have a V8 HEMI?
The modern interpretation of the Chrysler 300 has packed a HEMI V8 since just after its inception for the 2005 model year. The first V8 mill options were the 5.7L HEMI and 6.1L HEMI engines. However, it wasn’t until the LD platform took over in 2011 that fans would get their 300 with a 6.4L V8.
That 6.4L V8 was the mill of choice for the SRT models until Chrysler discontinued it in 2015. After that, the most potent mill in the Chrysler 300’s lineup was the 5.7L HEMI V8, a 363-horsepower option for the 300S trim level. That is, until Stellantis sends the model off to the horsepower history books with the limited edition 300C.
How does the Chrysler 300C compare to the Dodge Charger?
The new 2023 Chrysler 300C packs a 485-horsepower 6.4L HEMI V8, not unlike the Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack and now-discontinued SRT 392. Still, even with the mightiest mill ever stuffed into the 300 platform, the limited edition Chrysler sedan is hopeless to contend with the supercharged flavors of the Dodge Charger.
| Make and model | Horsepower/torque | 0-60 mph |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 Chrysler 300C | 485 horsepower/475 lb-ft | 4.4 seconds |
| 2015 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat | 707 horsepower/650 lb-ft | 3.4 seconds |
| 2023 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye | 797 horsepower/707 lb-ft | 3.5 seconds |
Unfortunately for the cross-section of Mopar fanatics who desperately wanted something posher than a Dodge Charger with the touch of lunacy from a supercharged 6.2L Hellcat V8, the Chrysler 300 sedan never received the manic mill. Instead, the 6.4L V8 is the biggest, most powerful engine the 300 lineup ever packed.
As a result, every automatic-equipped Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat model will outsprint the Chrysler sedan. However, traction limitations couldn’t overcome the latest SRT Hellcat Redeye’s wider tires and 90 extra ponies. Specifically, in Car and Driver’s testing, the first standard-width SRT Hellcat they tested returned a 0.1-second advantage over the more recent Redeye and its hulking figures.
What is the final year Chrysler 300?
Stellantis, Chrysler’s parent company, confirmed that 2023 would be the final year for the LD platform 300. The model will likely be replaced in the automaker’s lineup by an electrified variant as early as 2026, per InsideEVs.
However, it’s not just the end of the road for the 300; it’s also curtains for the gas-powered Dodge Charger sedan and Challenger coupe models. Of course, Dodge confirmed the return of the Charger namesake with an all-electric coupe sporting retro-inspired lines and a faux exhaust note. What’s more, Dodge has hinted at the return of the gas engine in the next-gen coupe. It’s welcome news for Mopar maniacs.
Want more car content? Keep up with MotorBiscuit for the latest about everything from Mopar muscle cars to EVs!
