Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD vs Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat RWD

The Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat RWD exemplifies the essence of a muscle car, offering a combination of power and practicality. This high-performance sedan features four doors, substantial trunk space, and three sets of LATCH car-seat anchors, making it suitable for family use. Yet, it distinguishes itself from standard models with an astonishing 707 horsepower from its supercharged engine, which can be upgraded to 797 horsepower in the Hellcat Redeye version. This car is designed for speed, delivering exhilarating performance that is well-suited for tracks like Talladega’s Superspeedway, combining everyday usability with standout power dynamics.

In contrast, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD brings a different performance narrative. Initially overshadowed by the absence of a V8 option in the third-generation model, it now offers an F Sport trim that enhances its aggressive aesthetics. Although this trim provides appearance upgrades and some handling improvements, it lacks significant performance enhancements. Limited-slip differential options are available but only for rear-drive configurations, which somewhat limits its appeal to those seeking a sportier driving experience.

The Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat RWD's engine outputs an impressive 707 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, with the Hellcat Redeye variant elevating the numbers to 797 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque. This sheer power, coupled with a curb weight of 4,654 pounds, enables the car to deliver thrilling performance on both the road and the track.

In comparison, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD's 3.5-liter V6 generates 306 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. While it demonstrates capable performance for a luxury sedan, the significant difference in horsepower indicates that it targets a different market segment. The curb weight of the Lexus is 3,593 pounds, and while it is lighter and more maneuverable, it cannot compete with the raw power and speed of the Charger SRT Hellcat.

At the core of the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat RWD is a formidable 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine, paired with a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, particularly impressive in the Hellcat Redeye variant. The rear-wheel drive layout provides a fulfilling driving experience that aligns well with its performance brand.

Conversely, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD relies on a 3.5-liter V6 engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. This setup allows the vehicle to achieve a 0-60 mph time of approximately 5.6 seconds, showcasing a noteworthy performance; however, it falls short of the extraordinary acceleration capabilities seen in its competitor. The inclusion of all-wheel drive enhances stability and traction, appealing to drivers in various weather conditions.

Dimensions further accentuate the differences between these two vehicles. The Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat RWD measures 201.0 inches in length and has a wheelbase of 120 inches, providing a large and commanding presence. Its width is 78.3 inches and height measures 57.6 inches, contributing to a robust stance on the road.

In comparison, the Lexus IS 350 F Sport AWD is more compact, measuring 183.7 inches in length with a wheelbase of 110.2 inches. Its narrower width of 71.3 inches and height of 56.33 inches create a sleeker profile, which can enhance agility in tighter driving scenarios, making it more suited for urban environments.