FCA Drag Battle Royal: Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT vs Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat [Video]

When we first thought of a drag race between the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT vs Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, the consensus was, the Hellcat had the advantage. Remember, the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat has a 707 horsepower, supercharged engine that makes 650 lb-ft of torque. Our 2016 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat has the easier-to-launch (but boring) eight-speed automatic transmission. Being that our racetrack at IMI Raceway in Decono, Colorado is about a mile above sea-level, forced induction via the supercharger definitely had the edge.

[Photo: TFLcar.com]
The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat weighs about 4,450 lbs. The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT weighs about 5,100 lbs. That weight discrepancy is partially based on the Jeep’s all-wheel drive (AWD) system. This, and the Jeep’s overall drag (aerodynamics, AWD parasitic drag – etc.) gives the Challenger a significant advantage.

You would think it’s a forgone conclusion that the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat would murder the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT – right? Not so fast buddy, you’re forgetting how difficult it is for the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat to get grip. The Jeep has more meat on the ground (wider tires), AWD (in track mode, it has 30% power up front and 70% rear) and it has the mighty 6.4-liter Hemi V8 that makes 475 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque.

It WILL launch faster.

Finally, considering how short our track is (1/8th of a mile) – this race may surprise you. To find out who won, be sure to watch the whole video!