Hellcat vs Redeye vs Demon: Which Supercharged Challenger Is Right for You?
The supercharged Challenger family spans from 707 to 1025 hp. Here's how each model differs and which one makes sense for your goals.
The Lineup
Hellcat (2015–2023): 6.2L supercharged HEMI, 707 hp / 650 lb-ft. The original, most affordable entry into the supercharged family.
Hellcat Redeye (2019–2023): Same block, larger 2.7L supercharger from the Demon, upgraded fuel system. 797 hp / 707 lb-ft. Adds 90 hp for roughly $8,000–10,000 over the Hellcat.
Demon (2018): 808 hp on 91 octane, 840 hp on 100 octane. Drag-focused: TransBrake, line lock, skinny front tires, drag radials on the rear. Limited to 3,300 units.
Demon 170 (2023): 1,025 hp on E85. The fastest production car ever measured by quarter mile at launch. Even more limited production. Starts at $96,000 MSRP, dealers marked them to $150,000+.
Daily Drivability
Hellcat: The most livable. Docile in normal driving, savage when asked. Drives like a refined V8 car 90% of the time.
Redeye: Essentially the same daily drive character as the Hellcat. The extra power only shows when you use it.
Demon: Less comfortable daily driver. Skinny front tires cause tramlining on grooved pavement. Stiff spring rates for drag strip weight transfer. Used Demons are often babied collector cars.
Demon 170: Same story as the Demon, amplified. The E85-only power mode is impractical for daily use in areas without E85 infrastructure.
Quarter Mile Reality
| Model | Stock ET | Stock MPH |
|---|---|---|
| Hellcat | ~11.2 | ~125 |
| Redeye | ~10.8 | ~131 |
| Demon | ~9.65 | ~140 |
| Demon 170 | ~8.91 | ~151 |
Modifiability
The Hellcat is the most practical starting point for building — cheaper acquisition cost leaves budget for mods, and the aftermarket is most developed around the standard 2.4L blower.
The Redeye's 2.7L blower responds well to a ported lid and pulley upgrade, reaching 900–950 whp on E85 without internal engine work.
The Demon/170 are often left stock to preserve collector value.
Value Recommendation
For most enthusiasts: A used Hellcat (2019–2021) offers the best combination of performance, modifiability, and price. Budget $45,000–65,000 for a clean example.
For serious drag racing: A used Redeye gives you the larger blower platform without Demon pricing.
For collectors: Low-mile Demon (2018) or Demon 170 will appreciate. Buy the best example you can find and don't drive it hard.
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