For enthusiasts chasing maximum Hellcat Hp, the debate often circles back to the standard Hellcat versus the formidable Hellcat Redeye. While both models deliver exhilarating performance straight from the factory, those with modification ambitions need to consider which platform truly unlocks the most potential. Let’s delve into why, for serious horsepower gains, the Redeye emerges as the superior choice, particularly when aiming to maximize your Hellcat HP.
Many initially believe that upgrading a standard Hellcat to Redeye-level power is a straightforward, cost-effective path. The allure of modifying the 2.4L blower on the regular Hellcat, rumored to be robust, is strong. While the 2.7L supercharger on the Redeye is also undeniably stout and capable of handling mild modifications, the differences lie deeper than just supercharger size when the goal is to significantly boost Hellcat HP. Simple upgrades like pulley swaps and tunes on a standard Hellcat are indeed less expensive than purchasing a Redeye outright. However, this is where the cost savings end, and the complexities of chasing serious Hellcat HP begin.
The pursuit of higher Hellcat HP in a standard model quickly necessitates addressing drivetrain limitations. Upgrading the driveshaft becomes a crucial consideration. The factory driveshaft’s robustness, especially in models preceding 2017, remains a question mark for many pushing power limits. While aftermarket one-piece driveshafts are an option, they can introduce vibration issues. In contrast, the Redeye boasts a factory two-piece driveshaft engineered to handle significantly higher Hellcat HP, reportedly accommodating figures north of 1000 HP and withstanding the stress of low 9-second quarter-mile times on stock components. This inherent strength in the Redeye drivetrain eliminates immediate and potentially problematic upgrades required when pushing a standard Hellcat towards higher Hellcat HP figures.
Axle strength is another critical factor when targeting increased Hellcat HP. Standard Hellcat axles may become a weak point as power escalates, potentially requiring aftermarket replacements. The Redeye, however, comes equipped with beefier axles, factory-rated to manage its higher output and designed to withstand the rigors of high-performance driving and increased Hellcat HP. This robust stock setup in the Redeye saves owners from another essential upgrade often needed in a modified standard Hellcat seeking similar Hellcat HP levels.
Cooling efficiency is paramount when extracting more Hellcat HP. The Redeye incorporates an interchiller system, a significant advantage for maintaining optimal temperatures, especially under demanding conditions or with power-adding modifications. Standard Hellcats lack this feature, making cooling modifications almost mandatory when increasing Hellcat HP to prevent heat soak and maintain consistent performance. Investing in cooling upgrades for a standard Hellcat further erodes the perceived cost advantage compared to the Redeye, which already has superior cooling capabilities to support higher Hellcat HP.
The common misconception is that bolting on a few upgrades to a standard Hellcat is a cheaper route to similar Hellcat HP as a Redeye. However, factoring in the necessary drivetrain reinforcements, cooling enhancements, and potentially axle upgrades, the cost difference narrows considerably. A differential brace is almost a given for any Hellcat platform, regardless of model or modifications. But the crucial point is that modifying a standard Hellcat for serious Hellcat HP involves a cascade of necessary supporting modifications that the Redeye already addresses from the factory. The Redeye platform is inherently built to handle significant Hellcat HP increases with its factory-upgraded components.
In conclusion, while the standard Hellcat is an exceptional performance car, the Redeye platform is undeniably the superior choice for those seriously pursuing higher Hellcat HP through modifications. If your goal is to maximize Hellcat HP and you have the budget, the Redeye provides a more robust and upgrade-ready foundation. This isn’t to diminish the standard Hellcat’s capabilities, but rather to highlight the Redeye’s inherent advantages for enthusiasts aiming for ultimate Hellcat HP and a platform built to handle it from the start.
