Is a Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Faster Than a Ford Fiesta ST? Yes, We Went There in Episode 7! [Video]

It’s a supercharged versus turbocharged showdown!

Before we get into today’s episode of “Is It Faster Than a Hot Hatch?”, we know what you’re thinking. A 707 horsepower Challenger SRT Hellcat against a 197 horsepower Ford Fiesta ST? The Fiesta is going to get slaughtered!

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For the past six episodes, we’ve pitched our long-term Ford Fiesta ST against the likes of family sedans, turbocharged wagons, and even a Ford Mustang Bullitt. So, to be fair, this isn’t the first time we’ve pitched the little hot hatch against a muscle car. However, this does certainly feel like a foregone conclusion going in. Our long-term Challenger SRT Hellcat packs a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 with a whopping 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. It’s an engine that’s popping up in other cars around FCA’s lineup as well, like the ludicrous Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. All that tire-shredding power makes it to the ground by way of an eight-speed automatic transmission.

In the other corner, we have our returning contender. The Ford Fiesta ST is a completely different animal to the Hellcat. It’s front-wheel drive, with a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine making just 197 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque. It also has a six-speed manual transmission – something this particular Hellcat doesn’t have.

Leveling the playing field

Ah, but there’s a way to reign in the Challenger’s power: Valet mode. With a second key fob and special PIN, the SRT Hellcat’s horsepower output is severely limited. The idea is to stop some teenage hooligan joyriding – and let’s face it, probably crashing – your prized 707 horsepower beast. With Valet Mode engaged, the engine is reined in to around 200 horsepower, a far cry from the full-on fury.

With a leveled playing field, can the Ford Fiesta ST best the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat? The results may surprise you! Stay tuned to TFLcar.com for this and more episodes of “Is It Faster Than a Hot Hatch”!