BMW M5 Competition AWD vs Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat RWD

The Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat RWD is a quintessential American muscle car that emphasizes power and performance while maintaining the practicality of a four-door sedan. Boasting a formidable 707 horsepower (and up to 797 horsepower if you opt for the Hellcat Redeye), this vehicle is designed to deliver an exhilarating driving experience akin to the high speeds one might find on a racetrack. Its spacious interior comfortably accommodates passengers and their belongings, with ample trunk space and three sets of LATCH car-seat anchors, making it a versatile choice for families and driving enthusiasts alike. The SRT Hellcat harmonizes aggressive styling with robust performance capabilities, ensuring it stands out in the automotive landscape.

In contrast, the BMW M5 Competition AWD represents the pinnacle of German engineering and performance in the luxury sedan segment. Launched late in 2018, the M5 Competition boasts an impressive 617 horsepower, which allows it to achieve 0-60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. The model benefits from enhancements over its predecessor, including improvements in power and upgraded components aimed at maximizing performance. Notable features include a 0.3-inch lowered ride height, a revised exhaust system, and advancements to suspension that contribute to superior handling. Built with precision and performance in mind, the M5 Competition aims to deliver a thrilling yet refined driving experience, catering to those who appreciate both speed and sophistication.

The performance metrics of these two vehicles illustrate a clear distinction in their power profiles. The Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat RWD’s supercharged V8 engine generates 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, with the Hellcat Redeye variant pushing power to 797 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque. This higher output, combined with a curb weight of 4,654 pounds, allows the Charger to embody the brute force and speed characteristic of a muscle car, though heavier weight may impact agility compared to its competitors.

In contrast, the BMW M5 Competition AWD has a Turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine that produces 617 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. With a lighter curb weight of 4,370 pounds, this sedan benefits from a more favorable power-to-weight ratio, enhancing acceleration and handling response. While the SRT Hellcat excels in sheer power, the M5 Competition offers a finely-tuned balance of performance and weight efficiency, catering to a different type of driving enthusiast.

The Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat RWD is equipped with a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine that produces an exhilarating amount of power. It is paired with a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, which facilitates quick shifts and efficient power distribution. This combination enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0-60 mph in a mere 3.6 seconds in the Hellcat Redeye trim, providing a compelling performance experience for those behind the wheel. The rear-wheel-drive configuration further enhances the driving dynamics, allowing for precise handling and a traditional muscle car feel.

In comparison, the BMW M5 Competition AWD features a robust Turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine, delivering impressive power that is harnessed via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The all-wheel-drive system offers increased traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. This setup contributes to a remarkable estimated 0-60 mph time of just 3.1 seconds. The M5's AWD system not only improves acceleration but also enhances overall driving performance, ensuring that this performance sedan materializes its full potential under various driving circumstances.

The size dimensions of these two sedans further emphasize their design philosophies. The Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat RWD measures 201.0 inches in length, with a 120-inch wheelbase that contributes to its authoritative road presence. The vehicle's width is recorded at 78.3 inches, facilitating stability during high-speed maneuvers, while its height stands at 57.6 inches.

Conversely, the BMW M5 Competition AWD is more compact, measuring 195.5 inches in length with a shorter 117.4-inch wheelbase. Its overall width of 74.9 inches complements its agile handling characteristics, and it achieves a height of 57.8 inches. Despite being smaller in certain dimensions, the M5’s design prioritizes precision and cornering capabilities, showcasing a different approach to performance.