Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 vs. Dodge Challenger Hellcat

Stock Motor

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1:

0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds

Torque: 650 lb-ft

Horsepower: 650 hp

Top Speed: 198 mph

Quarter Mile Time: 11.4 seconds

Lap Time (Nürburgring): 7 minutes, 16.04 seconds

Powertrain Configuration: Supercharged 6.2L V8 engine

Transmission Type: 10-speed automatic or 6-speed manual

Power-to-Weight Ratio: Approximately 6.64 lb/hp

RPM (Shaft Speed): 6,600 RPM

Dodge Challenger Hellcat:

0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds

Torque: 650 lb-ft

Horsepower: 717 hp

Top Speed: 199 mph

Quarter Mile Time: 11.2 seconds

Lap Time (Nürburgring): N/A (Typically not optimized for track racing)

Powertrain Configuration: Supercharged 6.2L V8 engine

Transmission Type: 8-speed automatic or 6-speed manual

Power-to-Weight Ratio: Approximately 5.91 lb/hp

RPM (Shaft Speed): 6,200 RPM

Acceleration:

The Camaro ZL1 has a slightly faster 0-60 mph time than the Challenger Hellcat, with a mere 0.1-second difference. Both cars provide breathtaking acceleration off the line, making them exhilarating machines for speed enthusiasts.

Torque and Horsepower:

Both vehicles deliver a neck-snapping 650 lb-ft of torque, providing exceptional power for quick overtakes and thrilling driving experiences. The Challenger Hellcat edges out the Camaro ZL1 in horsepower, offering an extra 67 hp, but the difference is not overwhelmingly significant.

Top Speed:

The Challenger Hellcat narrowly beats the Camaro ZL1 in top speed by 1 mph. However, both cars are electronically limited to prevent exceeding these impressive velocities.

Quarter Mile Time:

In a quarter-mile drag race, the Challenger Hellcat once again has a slight advantage over the Camaro ZL1, clocking a faster time of 11.2 seconds compared to the ZL1's 11.4 seconds.

Lap Times:

The Camaro ZL1 sets the benchmark for track enthusiasts with a remarkable lap time of 7 minutes and 16.04 seconds at the Nürburgring, showcasing its exceptional handling and performance capabilities. While the Challenger Hellcat offers thrilling speed, it typically focuses more on straight-line performance rather than track lap times.

Powertrain Configuration:

Both the Camaro ZL1 and the Challenger Hellcat are equipped with supercharged 6.2L V8 engines, delivering massive power and a characteristic V8 rumble that enthusiasts adore.

Transmission Type:

The Camaro ZL1 offers a choice between a 10-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual transmission, providing a more engaging driving experience. The Challenger Hellcat also offers a manual option and an 8-speed automatic transmission for those who prefer the convenience of automatic shifting.

Power-to-Weight Ratio:

The Challenger Hellcat boasts a slightly better power-to-weight ratio, giving it a potential edge in acceleration and responsiveness compared to the Camaro ZL1. v

RPM (Shaft Speed):

The Camaro ZL1 has a higher redline, with the engine capable of revving up to 6,600 RPM, offering a broader power band compared to the Challenger Hellcat's 6,200 RPM limit.

The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and the Dodge Challenger Hellcat are two remarkable muscle cars that showcase American engineering prowess at its finest. While the Challenger Hellcat excels in straight-line speed and offers an imposing presence, the Camaro ZL1 shines with its track-focused performance and precise handling. The choice between these two juggernauts ultimately comes down to personal preference and the intended use of the vehicle, be it for thrilling drag races or conquering challenging racetracks. Either way, driving either of these beasts will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience.

Tuning Ability

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1:

Upgraded Intake:

Cold air intake systems: K&N Cold Air Intake, aFe Power Momentum GT, AIRAID MXP Series Intake.

Benefits: Improved airflow for better engine breathing and increased horsepower.

Performance Exhaust:

Borla ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust, MagnaFlow Competition Series Exhaust, Corsa Xtreme Cat-Back Exhaust.

Benefits: Enhanced exhaust flow, aggressive sound, and potential power gains.

Forced Induction:

Supercharger upgrades: Whipple Superchargers, ProCharger Superchargers, Edelbrock E-Force Supercharger Kit.

Benefits: Significant horsepower and torque gains, turning the ZL1 into an even more potent track machine.

Fuel Management:

Performance fuel injectors: Injector Dynamics ID1050X, DeatschWerks DW200, Bosch EV14.

Benefits: Improved fuel delivery, crucial for handling higher power levels.

Ignition Options:

Performance spark plugs: NGK Iridium IX, Denso Iridium Power, ACCEL SuperStock.

Benefits: Stronger spark, improved combustion, and smoother engine performance.

Dodge Challenger Hellcat:

Upgraded Intake:

Hellcat-specific cold air intakes: Legmaker Intakes, JLT Performance Hellcat Cold Air Intake, AFE Momentum GT.

Benefits: Improved airflow and throttle response, leading to potential horsepower gains.

Performance Exhaust:

Cat-back exhaust systems: Corsa Extreme Cat-Back Exhaust, Borla ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust, MagnaFlow Competition Series Exhaust.

Benefits: Increased exhaust flow, aggressive sound, and possible power enhancement.

Forced Induction:

Supercharger pulley upgrades: Metco Motorsports Hellraiser 2.85" Supercharger Pulley, Griptec 2.75" Supercharger Pulley.

Benefits: Higher boost levels, delivering a substantial horsepower increase.

Fuel Management:

High-flow fuel pumps: Fore Innovations Hellcat Triple Pump Fuel System, Kenne Bell BOOST-A-PUMP.

Benefits: Ensures proper fuel delivery to support increased power demands.

Ignition Options:

Performance coils and spark plugs: MSD Hellcat Blaster Coil Packs, NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs.

Benefits: Improved spark performance, helping handle higher power levels.

Tuning Potential Comparison:

The Camaro ZL1 comes with a factory supercharger, providing an excellent starting point for significant power gains with aftermarket upgrades.

The Challenger Hellcat already boasts a robust supercharger, but additional pulley upgrades can elevate its performance even further.

Both cars have a strong aftermarket support for intake and exhaust upgrades, contributing to improved engine breathing and sound enhancements.

The ZL1's 10-speed automatic transmission offers more gear options for fine-tuning performance, while the Challenger Hellcat's 8-speed automatic also allows for efficient power delivery.

Both vehicles have impressive potential for power gains, but the ZL1 may have a slight edge in handling due to its track-focused design.

Suspension

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1:

Magnetic Ride Control (MRC):

The Camaro ZL1 is equipped with General Motors' Magnetic Ride Control suspension system, which uses magnetorheological fluid-filled dampers.

MRC continuously adjusts damping based on road conditions and driving style, providing a comfortable ride during cruising and firming up for aggressive driving.

Multilink Rear Suspension:

The ZL1 features a sophisticated multilink rear suspension, which allows for better wheel control and handling precision.

This setup provides improved stability and responsiveness during cornering and ensures maximum traction under acceleration. v

Performance Tires:

The ZL1 comes with performance-oriented tires, such as Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires, offering exceptional grip for spirited driving.

Track-Focused Chassis Tuning:

The ZL1's suspension is tuned for track performance, allowing drivers to push the car to its limits on the racetrack while maintaining stability.

Dodge Challenger Hellcat:

Bilstein Adaptive Damping Suspension (ADS):

The Challenger Hellcat features Bilstein's Adaptive Damping Suspension system, which automatically adjusts damping based on road conditions and driving mode.

ADS offers a comfortable ride during daily commutes and stiffens up for enthusiastic driving, enhancing stability and control.

Independent Rear Suspension (IRS):

The Hellcat comes with an independent rear suspension setup, improving handling and providing a more refined ride quality compared to older live-axle configurations.

High-Performance Tires:

The Hellcat is fitted with high-performance tires, such as Pirelli P Zero or Nitto NT05R tires, delivering excellent grip and traction.

Drag-Strip Focused Tuning:

The Hellcat's suspension is tuned with a focus on straight-line performance, making it a beast in quarter-mile runs and straight-line acceleration.

Suspension Comparison:

The Camaro ZL1's Magnetic Ride Control offers a more adaptive and responsive suspension system, making it well-suited for both daily driving and aggressive cornering.

The Challenger Hellcat's Bilstein Adaptive Damping Suspension provides a good balance between comfort and performance, making it a more practical choice for everyday use.

The ZL1's multilink rear suspension provides superior wheel control, allowing for more precise cornering and better handling dynamics.

The Hellcat's independent rear suspension contributes to improved ride quality and handling refinement, but it might not match the ZL1's ultimate cornering capabilities.

Both cars come equipped with performance tires, which enhance traction and grip, but the ZL1's track-focused chassis tuning might give it an edge in cornering performance.

The Challenger Hellcat's suspension tuning caters more to straight-line performance and drag-strip prowess, while the ZL1 is designed to excel on winding roads and racetracks.

Interior

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1:

Driver-Centric Cockpit:

The Camaro ZL1's interior is designed with the driver in mind, featuring a sporty and focused cockpit layout.

An ergonomic driver's seat, well-positioned controls, and a deep-set instrument cluster create a performance-oriented driving environment.

Premium Material Choices:

The ZL1's interior boasts a mix of soft-touch materials, carbon fiber accents, and aluminum trims, creating a sense of refinement and sportiness.

High-quality leather and Alcantara upholstery are available in higher trims, enhancing the luxurious feel of the cabin.

Infotainment System:

Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system is intuitive and user-friendly, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen display.

It offers standard features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and available options for a premium sound system.

Limited Rear Visibility:

Due to its sleek and low-profile design, the Camaro ZL1 has limited rear visibility, which might be a concern for some drivers.

Dodge Challenger Hellcat:

Spacious Interior:

The Challenger Hellcat boasts a more spacious interior, making it more accommodating for taller passengers and longer journeys.

It offers generous headroom and legroom both in the front and rear seats.

High-Quality Materials:

The Hellcat's interior features soft-touch surfaces, real aluminum trims, and available Nappa leather seats, creating an upscale and comfortable cabin ambiance.

Uconnect Infotainment System:

Dodge's Uconnect infotainment system is known for its user-friendly interface and quick response times.

The 8.4-inch touchscreen display is standard, offering features like smartphone integration, navigation, and available Wi-Fi hotspot.

Better Rear Visibility:

The Challenger Hellcat's taller design allows for better rear visibility compared to the Camaro ZL1, improving ease of parking and maneuverability.

Interior Comparison:

The Camaro ZL1's driver-focused cockpit appeals to enthusiasts seeking a more performance-oriented feel, while the Challenger Hellcat's spacious interior caters to those who prioritize comfort and practicality.

Both cars offer high-quality materials and premium trims, but the Camaro ZL1's use of carbon fiber and its sportier design might give it a slight edge in the overall "racer" feel.

The Camaro ZL1's limited rear visibility can be a drawback, especially for daily commuting, whereas the Challenger Hellcat's taller cabin design provides better visibility all-around.

The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1's infotainment system is feature-packed and easy to use, while the Dodge Challenger Hellcat's Uconnect system is equally user-friendly and offers a larger standard screen.