Media post: The Dodge Challenger Scat Pack
Talk to a typical Dodge Challenger Hellcat owner about their car and they will likely tell you that it’s the finest muscle car ever built. And, you know what? It’s hard to argue. With modern technology and 707 HP, the Challenger Hellcat is one heck of a performance car. Problem is, though, who can afford one? With a starting prices of $62,000, many people can’t afford a Hellcat.
The 1968-1972 Scat Pack
Fortunately, Dodge has a close second choice prepared, just for that very reason: the Challenger Scat Pack. The name will sound familiar to those who were around back in the 60s. From 1968 until 1972, Dodge offered the Scat Pack package in the Dart Swinger 340, Coronet Super Bee, Challenger and Charger R/T. The Scat Pack package varied by model but included things like triple carburation, free-flow exhaust, special graphics, extra gauges and other performance goodies. The vintage car guys at Century 3 Kia of West Mifflin, a local Kia dealer in West Mifflin, PA, tell us they were very popular models and genuine original examples are quite valuable today.
The 2016 Dodge Challenger Scat Pack
Today, we have the reincarnation of the famous Dodge Challenger Scat Pack model. It is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.4-liter Hemi offering a healthy 485 horsepower, all while maintaining a very affordable $37,995 starting price. For an additional $4,800 you can get the outstanding Shaker Package added. For 2017, this option offers the instantly recognizable hood protrusion, badging, tasteful black touches and lots of interior upgrades. Let’s take a closer look.
The 2016 Scat Pack Exterior
The Challenger Scat Pack is retro but tasteful, has huge C-pillars and classic muscle car colors. The running lights and tail lights are ultra-bright LEDs and the vehicle comes stock with bold 20-inch wheels. For those that want some “outrageousness,” go for the Shaker Package.
The 2016 Scat Pack Powertrain
Starting with a 392 cube V8 Hemi offering 485 ponies and 475 foot-pounds of torque, this car has the power. Optional is a six-speed manual gearbox and active exhaust for real throwback muscle car fun. Fuel efficiency isn’t too bad at 14/23 miles per gallon. Owners say that they get around 17 MPG average. The car comes with Good Year rubber, Brembo brakes and Bilstein sport suspension.
The 2016 Scat Pack Interior
The dash offers vintage flair with a retro-looking gauge cluster and to the right is the 8.4-inch UConnect touchscreen infotainment system. With the Shaker upgrade you get heated and ventilated leather seats., a power telescoping steering column and sport pedals.
The 2016 Scat Pack Tech
The tech end of the Challenger is largely focused on keeping Mopar performance at the center of attention. That being said, a $845 upgrade gets you an 506 watt audio system with 9 alpine speakers and a sub-woofer. Smart safety tech touches like Dodge’s ParkSense rearview camera, hill start assist, rain brake support, forward braking alerts, and all speed traction control are all standard.
Wrap up
The Shaker-equipped Scat Pack makes for a very tempting Hellcat alternative. It may not have the nameplate or the insane power, but it does have a traditionalist’s approach to performance that does not disappoint.
