In-Depth Comparison Guide: Chrsyler 300 vs. Dodge Charger

The Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger may share the same underpinnings but cater to very different drivers. The 300 delivers refined luxury with bold styling, while the Charger embraces muscle car aggression with high-performance variants. Whether you're looking for a comfortable cruiser or a powerhouse on wheels, this detailed comparison guide breaks down the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger’s key differences in design, performance, features, and overall driving experience. Continue reading until the end to discover how you can elevate these iconic vehicles to even greater heights!

A History Overview and Generations Compared: Chrysler 300 vs. Dodge Charger

The Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger are two of the most iconic American sedans, each with a distinct identity—one rooted in luxury and sophistication, the other in raw muscle and performance. Over the decades, both cars have evolved significantly, adapting to changing trends in design, performance, and technology. While their histories date back to the mid-20th century, this comparison focuses on their modern iterations, starting in the mid-2000s when both were built on the Chrysler LX platform, sharing key components while maintaining distinct personalities.

Chrysler 300 (2005-2010) vs. Dodge Charger (2006-2010)

Both sedans debuted on the LX platform, which is based on the W211-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class, bringing European engineering and refinement to American sedans. The Chrysler 300 made a statement with its bold, upscale design, blending American luxury with European influences. Meanwhile, the Dodge Charger embraced its muscle car heritage, featuring aggressive styling and a sportier driving experience.

• 2005-2010 Chrysler 300: Featured a boxy, high-class design with a prominent chrome grille and upscale interior materials. The Chrysler 300 offered a range of engines consisting of a 2.7L V6, 3.5L V6, 5.7L HEMI V8, and SRT8 version with a 6.1L HEMI V8 (425 hp). There was also a Mercedes-sourced 3.0-liter turbodiesel option sold exclusively in Europe.

• 2006-2010 Dodge Charger: Introduced as a four-door muscle car with a more aggressive stance and driver-focused interior. The Dodge Charger shared the same engines with the Chrysler 300 but with a sportier tuning. 

Chrysler 300 (2011-2023) vs. Dodge Charger (2011-2023)

In 2011, the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger transitioned to the LD platform, an evolution of the previous W211-based LX chassis. This generation saw major improvements in technology, comfort, and performance. While the Chrysler 300 remained a powerful yet sophisticated luxury sedan, the Dodge Charger cemented itself as the true four-door American muscle car. 

• 2011-2023 Chrysler 300: Maintained a bold, luxury sedan identity with premium materials and a refined cabin. The powertrain options for the Chrysler 300 included 3.0 and 3.6L Pentastar V6s, while a 5.7 HEMI V8 was also available. The SRT8 version (discontinued in the U.S. after 2014) had a 6.4L HEMI V8 (470 hp). The turbodiesel option was also offered in European markets.

• 2011-2023 Dodge Charger: It became even more aggressive, with LED racetrack taillights and a muscular stance. It offered the same V6 and HEMI V8 engine options but also included a 6.4L V8 (485 hp) for the Dodge Charger Scat Pack and a 6.2L supercharged (707+ hp) for the Dodge Charger Hellcat.

Engine & Performance: Chrysler 300 vs. Dodge Charger

Here’s a comparison of the Chrysler 300 vs. Dodge Charger in terms of performance and engineering:

• Chrysler 300 powertrains: 3.6L V6 engine (292-300 hp) standard in most trims, 5.7L HEMI V8 engine (363 hp) available in higher trims, 8-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifts, and rear-wheel drive (RWD) with optional all-wheel drive (AWD) for better traction.
• Dodge Charger powertrains: 3.6L V6 engine (292-300 hp) standard in base models, 5.7L HEMI V8 engine (370 hp) available in mid-level trims, 6.4L HEMI V8 engine (485 hp) available in performance-oriented trims, supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 engine (707+ hp) standard in the Hellcat trim, 8-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifts, and rear-wheel drive (RWD) with available all-wheel drive (AWD) in some trims.

Exterior Design: Chrysler 300 vs. Dodge Charger

Here’s a comparison of the Chrysler 300 vs. Dodge Charger in terms of design and styling:

• The Chrysler 300 stands out for its luxury and refinement, offering a design with bold and elegant lines, chrome accents, and a sophisticated silhouette. 
• The Dodge Charger emphasizes performance and muscle car heritage, featuring a wide stance, sculpted body, and wild aerodynamic features in its performance-oriented trims. 

Interior Design: Chrysler 300 vs. Dodge Charger

The Chrysler 300 offers a more refined and luxury-oriented interior design with soft-touch materials, wood and leather accents, and an elegant dashboard layout, while the Dodge Charger has a sportier, driver-focused cockpit with aggressive styling and performance-oriented details. 

The Chrysler 300 features plush, premium leather seats and upscale touches like an analog clock. On the other hand, the Dodge Charger prioritizes bolstered seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and red-accented sporty gauges.

Technology and Interior Comfort: Chrysler 300 vs. Dodge Charger

Here’s a comparison of the Chrysler 300 vs. Dodge Charger in terms of technology and interior comfort:

• The Chrysler 300’s luxurious interior features a Uconnect 8.4-inch touchscreen, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated seats. Four audio enthusiasts can choose an optional Harman Kardon sound system. 
• The Dodge Charger’s driver-focused interior layout features a 7-inch or 8.4-inch  Uconnect touchscreen, sporty seats, a Harman Kardon sound system,  and standard tech features like a remote start and a rearview camera.

Market Positioning and Cultural Impact: Chrysler 300 vs. Dodge Charger

Here’s a comparison of the Chrysler 300 vs. Dodge Charger in terms of marketing positioning and cultural impact:

• The Chrysler 300 is marketed as a luxury sedan that blends elegance, comfort, and performance. It is often associated with success and prestige, frequently appearing in movies and pop culture as a status symbol for those at the top.
• The Dodge Charger is a muscle car sedan with aggressive styling and a wide range of high-performance engines. It is deeply connected to American muscle car heritage, representing raw power, rebellion, and freedom.

Trim Levels and Prices: Chrysler 300 vs. Dodge Charger

The Chrysler 300 is no longer for sale. The 300's production and sales ceased in 2023, marking its discontinuation. If you want to buy one of these American sedans with zero km, your only option will be the Charger. Let’s look at the Chrysler 300 trims and then the Dodge Charger trims and prices:

Chrysler 300 Trims

• Chrysler 300 Touring RWD: Base model with a 3.6L V6 and essential features
• Chrysler 300 Touring AWD: Adds all-wheel drive for better traction
• Chrysler 300 Touring L RWD: Mid-level trim with leather seats and more comfort
• Chrysler 300 Touring L AWD: Adds all-wheel drive for improved handling
• Chrysler 300 300S RWD: Sportier trim with a sport-tuned suspension
• Chrysler 300 300C RWD (Final Edition): Top-tier performance model with a 6.4L HEMI V8

Dodge Charger Trims and Prices

• Dodge Charger SXT: Base model, starting at $36,000
• Dodge Charger GT: Sportier mid-level trim with AWD option, starting at $39,000
• Dodge Charger R/T: Entry-level V8 model, starting at $45,000
• Dodge Charger Scat Pack: High-performance, naturally aspirated V8 trim, starting at $55,000
• Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody: Top-tier, supercharged muscle car with extreme power starting at $80,000+

Entry-Level Trims: Chrysler 300 Touring vs. Dodge Charger SXT

Both the Chrysler 300 Touring and Dodge Charger SXT serve as entry points into the full-size sedan segment. Here is the Chrysler 300 Touring vs. Dodge Charger SXT:

Chrysler 300 Touring

• Chrysler 300 Touring Engine & Performance: Refined full-size sedan with a 3.6L V6 (292 hp) paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
• Chrysler 300 Touring Fuel Economy: Approximately 19 mpg city / 30 mpg highway for RWD models (slightly lower for AWD)

Dodge Charger SXT

• Dodge Charger SXT Engine & Performance: Uses the same 3.6L V6 (292 hp in RWD / 300 hp in AWD) with a sportier character and optional AWD for enhanced versatility. 
• Dodge Charger SXT Fuel Economy: Around 19 mpg city / 30 mpg highway on RWD; AWD versions may see numbers closer to 18/28 mpg.

Mid-Tier Trims: Chrysler 300s vs. Dodge Charger GT

Stepping up the ladder, the mid-tier trims—Chrysler 300S and Dodge Charger GT—introduce sportier aesthetics and enhanced driving dynamics. Here are the Chrysler 300S vs. Dodge Charger GT:

Chrysler 300S

• Chrysler 300S Engine & Performance: This sportier 300 variant features a similar 3.6L V6 engine and tuned suspension for a more aggressive feel.
• Chrysler 300S Fuel Economy: Roughly 19 mpg city / 30 mpg highway (with minor variations based on configuration).

Dodge Charger GT

• Dodge Charger GT Engine & Performance: It is also powered by a 3.6L V6 and features performance-focused suspension tweaks and paddle shifters for a spirited driving experience.
• Dodge Charger GT Fuel Economy: Similar to the Chrysler 300s at around 19 mpg city / 30 mpg highway.

V8 Battles: Chrysler 300C vs. Dodge Charger R/T

When it comes to raw power, the V8-equipped Chrysler 300C and Dodge Charger R/T step into the spotlight. Let’s look at the Chrysler 300C vs. Dodge Charger R/T:

Chrysler 300C

• Chrysler 300C Engine & Performance: Equipped with a robust 6.4 HEMI V8 engine delivering roughly 485 hp for a refined yet powerful ride. 
• Chrysler 300C Fuel Economy: Approximately 15 mpg city / 24 mpg highway

Dodge Charger R/T

• Dodge Charger R/T Engine & Performance: Powered by a 5.7L HEMI V8 (around 370 hp), balancing muscle performance with daily drivability. 
• Dodge Charger R/T Fuel Economy: Slightly better efficiency at roughly 16 mpg city/25 mpg highway.

High-Performance Showdown: Chrysler 300C vs. Dodge Charger Scat Pack

Although these two cars share similar outputs, this comparison zeroes in on the performance tuning and handling enhancements. Here is the Chrysler 300C vs. Dodge Charger Scat Pack: 

Chrysler 300C (New 2023 Limited Edition)

• Chrysler 300C Engine & Performance: Continues with the 6.4L HEMI V8 (485 hp), offering premium appointments and muscle-car credentials.  
• Chrysler 300C Fuel Economy: Around 15 mpg city / 24 mpg highway

Dodge Charger Scat Pack

• Dodge Charger Scat Pack Engine & Performance: Uses the same 6.4L HEMI V8 engine but benefits from additional performance enhancements such as launch control, Brembo brakes, and a more track-tuned suspension.
• Dodge Charger Scat Pack Fuel Economy: Very similar numbers, roughly 15 mpg / 24 mpg highway, though the track-focused tuning might push figures slightly lower under spirited driving.

Top-Tier Performance: Chrysler 300 SRT8 vs. Dodge Charger Hellcat

The top-of-the-line, performance-oriented versions of these sedans do not quite match in terms of performance. The difference between them is over 200 hp, but here are the details never the less.

Chrysler 300 SRT8

• Chrysler 300 SRT8 Engine & Performance: A high-performance, now-discounted model features an updated 6.4L HEMI V8 engine with 485 hp with a tuned suspension for serious handling.
• Chrysler 300 SRT8 Fuel Economy: Approximately 14 mpg city / 22 mpg highway.

Dodge Charger Hellcat

• Dodge Charger Hellcat Engine & Performance: This muscle sedan icon boasts a supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 (over 700 hp) and extreme performance capabilities. 
• Dodge Charger Fuel Economy: Typically around 13 mpg city / 21 mpg highway due to its high-powered nature.

Is the Chrysler 300 a muscle car​?

Not exactly. The Chrysler 300 is a luxury sports sedan, not a complete muscle car. While some trims, like the Chrysler 300C and SRT variants, have muscle car characteristics, they lack the raw, high-performance focus of traditional muscle cars like the Dodge Charger or Challenger.

Is the Chrysler 300 same as Dodge Charger?

No, but they share a lot. The Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger are built on the same platform in both generations, share similar engines like the Pentastar V6s and HEMI V8s, and have comparable sizes. While the Chrysler 300 is slightly taller, giving it a more upright, luxury-oriented stance, the Dodge Charger sits lower, enhancing its muscle car appeal. Both have the same wheelbase and similar interior space, but the Chrysler 300 offers slightly more headroom in the rear. 

Is a Dodge Charger better than a Chrysler 300?​

That depends on what you’re looking for:

• Performance: The Dodge Charger offers higher-performance trims, including the Hellcat with a supercharged V8, making it a better choice for muscle car enthusiasts.
• Luxury & Comfort: The Chrysler 300 is more refined, with a focus on premium materials, a quieter cabin, and a more upscale feel.
• Styling: The Dodge Charger has a sportier, aggressive look, while the Chrysler 300 has a bold but more elegant design.

Which is better: Chrysler 300 or Dodge Charger?

If you ask, “What should I get, Chrysler 300 or Dodge Charger?” or wonder about the winner of Chrysler 300 vs. Dodge Charger comparison, you need to consider the specs and features of these two cars to determine your favorite. Whether you choose the Chrysler 300 or Dodge Charger, you can improve them with the best throttle response controller: Pedal Commander!

How to Upgrade Chrysler 300 or Dodge Charger with Pedal Commander?

Both the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger have powerful engine options, but due to factory settings, they suffer from throttle lag. As the most practical and versatile throttle controller on the market, Pedal Commander unlocks your vehicle's full potential. How? Let’s look at what Pedal Commander does: 

• Instant Throttle Response: Pedal Commander offers lightning-quick acceleration by eliminating throttle lag from your accelerator pedal.
• Effortless Installation: Pedal Commander boasts an effortless plug-and-play setup in minutes without needing technical expertise for immediate benefits.
• Customizable Settings: Pedal Commander allows you to fine-tune your vehicle's response to match your preferred driving style with its four adjustable modes: ECO, CITY, SPORT, and SPORT+.
• Better Off-Road and On-Road Control: Pedal Commander enhances off-road driving with its Sport and Sport+ modes, which give a more aggressive throttle response, while its City mode offers smooth acceleration on paved roads.
• Fuel Efficiency: Pedal Commander Eco mode reduces throttle sensitivity for better fuel economy during long road trips or stop-and-go traffic, perfect for daily road use.
• Versatile Compatibility: Pedal Commander is designed to seamlessly integrate with a wide array of vehicle makes and models, electric or internal combustion, for an exceptional driving upgrade.
• Anti-Theft Feature: When activated, Pedal Commander’s anti-theft feature renders your vehicle’s throttle system completely unresponsive, ensuring no one can steal your car. Enjoy this feature for the first 14 days free, then easily subscribe through the Pedal Commander mobile app and choose from two subscription plans: $0.99 per month or $9.99 per year!