5.7L vs 6.4L vs 6.2L: How Engine Size Affects Mod Choices
Not all HEMI engines are the same. The 5.7L, 6.4L, and 6.2L supercharged each have different mod paths and part compatibility.
The 2022 Challenger comes with three HEMI V8 engine options (plus the V6 in the SXT, which we'll skip for performance discussion). Each engine has different stock specifications, different mod potential, and different part fitment.
5.7L HEMI (R/T) — 375 HP / 410 lb-ft
The 5.7L is the entry-level V8 and the most commonly modified. It responds well to bolt-ons and has the most headroom for improvement percentage-wise.
Key specs: Smaller bore (3.917") than the 6.4L, MDS (on auto), VVT, 10.5:1 compression.
Mod considerations:
- Throttle bodies, intakes, and injectors are sized differently than the 6.4L
- Has the most to gain from bolt-ons (35–55 HP from the bolt-on trio)
- More conservative ECU tune from the factory = more room to optimize
- Supercharger kits are generally less expensive because the engine makes less boost pressure
6.4L HEMI (Scat Pack, R/T Scat Pack) — 485 HP / 475 lb-ft
The 6.4L is the sweet spot for modding. It makes serious power from the factory and responds beautifully to modifications.
Key specs: Larger bore (4.09"), MDS (on auto), VVT, 11.0:1 compression.
Mod considerations:
- Different throttle body size than 5.7L (92mm stock vs 80mm)
- Different injector size (38 lb/hr vs 32 lb/hr stock)
- Different intake manifold (will not interchange with 5.7L)
- Headers are physically different due to bore spacing
- Higher compression ratio means more detonation risk with boost — tuning is more critical
6.2L Supercharged HEMI (Hellcat) — 717 HP / 656 lb-ft
The Hellcat already has a supercharger from the factory. The mod path is completely different — you're not adding boost, you're optimizing the existing boost system.
Key specs: 6.2L with IHI twin-screw supercharger, forged internals, 9.5:1 compression, 11.6 PSI stock boost.
Mod considerations:
- Adding a "supercharger kit" doesn't apply — it already has one
- Mods focus on: larger pulley (more boost), better intercooler, fuel system, intake, headers
- The factory forged internals can handle 900+ HP with proper supporting mods
- A pulley and tune alone can push to 800+ HP
- Completely different intake manifold, fuel system, and cooling requirements
Compatibility Warning
Parts are NOT interchangeable between these engines. A 5.7L throttle body does not fit a 6.4L. A 6.4L intake manifold does not fit a 5.7L. Headers are different for each engine. Always verify fitment for your specific engine when purchasing parts.
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