If you find yourself caught between two of Dodge’s most iconic muscle cars, the 2023 Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger, our side-by-side comparison is here to help. Let’s take a look at how these Dodges are different! By the end of this guide, you’ll know which one should be injecting blistering speed into your daily drive.
Key Takeaways
- The Challenger (starting at $30,545) comes at a slightly lower price than the Charger (starting at $32,645).
- Each of these classic muscle cars is available with a list of thrilling engine options, depending on which trim model you select.
- Although these models offer a similar range of comfort and convenience features, the Charger provides greater backseat passenger space.
- Both the Challenger and the Charger feature their own classic exterior styling.
Price
If price is a big factor to you, the Challenger comes at a slightly lower price, with an MSRP of $30,545. However, the Charger is very competitive, giving you a slightly roomier cabin and four-door body style for the slightly higher MSRP of $32,645.
Powertrain Options
Although the 2023 Dodge Challenger and Charger offer similar engine options, output and availability varies slightly between the two models.
The availability of the Challenger engines vary according to trim model:
- STX, GT: 3.6L V6 (303 horsepower, 268 lb-ft)
- R/T: 5.7L V8 (372 hp, 400 lb-ft with automatic; 375 hp, 410 lb-ft with manual)
- R/T Scat Pack: 6.4L V8 (485 hp, 475 lb-ft)
- SRT Hellcat: Supercharged 6.2L V8 (717 hp, 656 lb-ft)
- SRT Hellcat Redeye: High-output supercharged 6.2L V8 (797 hp, 707 lb-ft; 807 hp with Jailbreak package)
- SRT Super Stock: High-output supercharged 6.2L V8 (807 hp, 707 lb-ft)
The same goes for the Charger, which features a similar list of engines and trim models:
- SXT, GT: 3.6L V6 (292 horsepower, 260 lb-ft of torque; 300 hp, 264 lb-ft for RWD GT and AWD SXT)
- R/T: 5.7L V8 (370 hp, 395 lb-ft)
- Scat Pack: 6.4L 392 V8 (485 hp, 475 lb-ft)
- SRT Hellcat: Supercharged 6.2L V8 (717 hp, 650 lb-ft)
- SRT Hellcat Redeye: Supercharged V8 (717 hp, 650 lb-ft)
Interior Space & Comfort
Both of these Dodge muscle cars are available as five trim models: SXT, GT, R/T, R/T Scat Pack, and SRT Hellcat. Not only does moving up the list mean more power and performance features, but it also means greater interior comfort and more premium tech features. You’ll find similar offerings on both the Challenger and Charger, such as standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and optional leather upholstery.
However, one big difference between the two is backseat space. In addition to delivering muscle-car performance, the Charger can double as a family hauler, thanks to its four-door body style and greater rear leg and hip room. The Challenger has a two-door body style, so rear seats aren’t quite as roomy or easy to access.
Exterior Style
In our humble opinion, both the 2023 Dodge Challenger and Charger have their own distinct and extremely recognizable styling. The Challenger’s long hood and round headlamps are as iconic as the Charger’s uniquely muscular front-end styling. With available hood scoops and wheel upgrades, you can make your model all the more eye-catching.
Choose Your Dodge Muscle Car
Choosing between the 2023 Dodge Challenger and 2023 Dodge Charger comes down to what you want in a muscle car. Both models certainly deliver plenty of strength and aggressive styling, albeit appealing to slightly different tastes. But the Charger offers both greater backseat space and easier access to it. And the Challenger has a slightly lower starting price, something that might appeal to your budget.