Charger Scat Pack offers SRT Performance at a Lower Cost

Scat Pack Sedan

American brand performance sedans used to be plentiful. Today, with one exception, they have all disappeared. Those shopping for one are limited to Dodge, and the only offering is their Charger model.

It used to be that a performance Charger was only offered in two versions, the SRT or Hellcat. While those trims are still offered, they are not inexpensive. The 6.2 liter V-8 707 horsepower Hellcat starts about $65K. The SRT with its 485 horsepower 6.4 liter V-8 starts at about $51K. A few years ago, a third choice was presented, the SCAT PACK, starting at $39,995. 

Same horsepower as the SRT

The Scat Pack uses the same 485 horsepower engine as the more expensive SRT. The reason it costs less is that it has less as far as equipment goes, but gives nothing less when it comes to performance. Luxury features like special leather seats, radar cruise control, and a powerful sound system are stripped from the Scat Pack sedan. The SRT also has a fancy computer system with ECO, STREET, SPORT, and TRACK modes. These control the steering feel, transmission shift points, ride comfort, and other features. While fun to play with, all these extras add more weight, and the novelty of having them will wear out over time. 

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Leaner, meaner and just as fast

The Scat Pack has less fluff, with larger wheels, limited slip rear axle, a simple sport mode, stiff suspension, and rear spoiler. The only performance loss over the SRT is the four-piston Brembo braking system instead of a six-piston set. On the track, there is a slight noted difference, but on the street, not much. The end result is a leaner and meaner machine that runs just as quickly, but for far less money. 

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Improved cabin

The Scat Pack does have a performance computer control system, but it's less cluttered. Like the SRT, we still get launch control, 0-60 timer, quarter-mile timer, G-force gauge, and a torque/horsepower dial. You can disconnect the automatic dimming mirror, but instead of a simple button, you have to go into this computer and hit the correct APP. Odd. It's more of a hassle, but it can still be turned off.

The Scat Pack does not come with a spare tire, just a cheap air pump repair kit. I am told by Dodge that this is done to save weight. Considering that the Charger already has a bloated mass of 4,200 pounds dry, the lack of tire is not likely to make much difference. It does make a difference in manufacturing cost, and owner cost for a tow truck in case of a flat. Owners should buy a spare.

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Passing all the tests

In testing this rig over 500 miles, my 0-60 mph time was 4.8 seconds, and the quarter-mile was 13.1 after three runs. Yes, the 485 hp Hemi can go a bit quicker given more time and after playing with tire pressures, but the factory wanted this vehicle back in one piece. Melting the tires or blowing the motor up gets the Dodge guys upset, so I limited my racing activities.

On tight mountain roads at full throttle, and this huge monster of a car really knows how to hug the pavement. The brakes work well with little fade. The Fuel economy averages 15 mpg in the city, and 21/25 on the open road which is exactly what the Dodge guys advertised.

If you want the performance of an SRT but want to spend less money, a Scat Pack is the way to go.

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