Dodge has a rich history when it comes to muscle cars, and it trades on such lore now and again with special-edition models like the Charger SRT8 Super Bee and the Challenger Yellow Jacket. Entering 2014, however, Dodge is taking retro to a whole new level, and in a good way, with the re-introduction of its factory Scat packages. The Sinatra-like name comes from the original Dodge Scat Pack, a Dodge enthusiast club whose popularity led the factory to first introduce stage kits nearly 45 years ago. Dodge brought a trio of Scat-outfitted cars to the 2013 SEMA show, and here’s how the kits break down by model, sans pricing, which is forthcoming:
Challenger Scat Packages
Each Scat Pack–eligible Dodge offers three stage kits; the Challenger’s requires the 5.7-liter Hemi engine, naturally. Scat Package 1 brings a retuned engine calibration, a cold-air intake, cat-back exhaust, and a Scat Package 1 badge. Scat Package 2 adds a further retuned ECU, a Mopar camshaft, and a Scat Package 2 badge. Finally, Scat Package 3 mixes Mopar ported and polished heads, high-flow exhaust headers, and an ECU tune to suit its specific upgrades; of course, a Scat Package 3 badge is included. Dodge’s SEMA Challenger Scat Pack car further amps up things with a bunch of stuff from the Mopar catalog, including 20-inch “Classic II” wheels, a new electronically variable side-exhaust kit (which keeps the pipes going aft, but can reroute sounds and gasses to a pair of side-exit outlets), and an adjustable coil-over suspension.
Charger Scat Packages
Similar to the Challenger, the Charger’s Scat packages are only compatible with the 5.7-liter Hemi engine. In fact, Dodge points out that the Charger’s kits mirror the Challenger’s and bring identical performance gains. As for the SEMA Charger Scat Pack, Dodge fitted 20-inch lightweight wheels, a front splitter and rear spoiler, the variable side-exit exhaust system, front and rear strut bars, and an adjustable coil-over suspension. A note on the unique exhaust setup: Given the unit’s questionable noise and emissions standing, Dodge is making the system a dealer-installed accessory; buyers won’t be able to get it factory fitted through the Mopar Custom Shop.
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Dart Scat Packages
In lieu of the Dart SRT model we’re still waiting for, a fully Scat-packaged Dart might make for a fine alternative. Available only for 2.4-liter–equipped Darts, the stage kits bring a serious dose of mean to Dodge’s compact formerly known as Giulietta. Scat Package 1 nets owners a Mopar cold-air intake, a short-throw shifter, and performance brakes (slotted rotors and performance pads). Scat Package 2 tosses in unique ECU tuning and a cat-back exhaust, and Scat Package 3 ups the ante with a Mopar big brake kit with stainless steel lines; adjustable suspension; and performance-minded front and rear swaybars. The SEMA show car adds the sweet side-exit exhaust system, although befitting the Dart’s baby cylinder count, its setup gets just a single side outlet on the driver’s side. (The Challenger and Charger’s exhausts dump to both sides.) Again, Dodge threw the Mopar catalog at this specific Dart, adding a Katzkin leather interior, concept-stage 19-inch wheels, an aggressive body kit, and a vented aluminum hood that looks pretty sweet.