2017 Dodge Charger Daytona Engine: Specs & Performance

by Alex Braham 55 views

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the heart of a true American icon – the 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona and its roaring engine. If you're a gearhead like me, you probably already know that the Daytona trim is something special. It's not just about the looks (though that iconic styling definitely plays a huge part), it's about the raw power lurking under the hood. This article will cover everything you need to know about the engine that makes the 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona such a beast on the road.

Decoding the Daytona Legacy

Before we even pop the hood, let's take a quick trip down memory lane. The Daytona nameplate isn't just some random marketing gimmick; it's steeped in Mopar history. Back in the late '60s, Dodge unleashed the Charger Daytona, a winged warrior built for NASCAR domination. These cars were all about speed and performance, and they quickly became legends. The modern Daytona carries that same spirit, offering a blend of classic muscle car attitude with modern technology and comfort. When you see that Daytona badge, you know you're dealing with something serious. The 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona engine options continue this legacy, delivering impressive horsepower and torque that'll leave you grinning from ear to ear. We'll get into the specifics in just a bit, but trust me, the numbers speak for themselves. This car isn't just about straight-line speed either. The Daytona package also includes performance-tuned suspension, brakes, and other upgrades that make it a well-rounded machine on the road or track. It's the kind of car that makes you feel alive behind the wheel, a true testament to the American muscle car spirit. So, whether you're a long-time Mopar fan or just someone looking for a seriously fun car, the 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona deserves your attention. It's a blend of heritage, performance, and modern comfort that's hard to beat. And it all starts with what's under the hood – so let's get into the engine options!

Powertrain Options: Unleashing the Horses

Okay, so what kind of 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona engine options are we talking about? Well, you've got two main choices, and both of them are pretty awesome in their own right. First up, we have the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V8. This engine is a classic for a reason – it delivers a fantastic blend of power and responsiveness, making it a blast to drive in any situation. We're talking about around 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque here, which is more than enough to get your blood pumping. The 5.7L HEMI is known for its smooth power delivery and that signature V8 rumble that just sounds so damn good. It's an engine that's equally happy cruising on the highway or tearing up the backroads. But if you're a true power junkie, you're probably eyeing the second option: the mighty 6.4-liter HEMI V8. This is the big daddy of the Daytona engine lineup, and it's an absolute monster. We're talking about a whopping 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque – enough to launch this car from 0 to 60 mph in the low 4-second range. The 6.4L HEMI transforms the Daytona into a serious performance machine, with neck-snapping acceleration and seemingly endless power on tap. It's the kind of engine that makes you want to find an open stretch of road and just let it rip. Both engines are paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission, which helps to maximize both performance and fuel efficiency. And while fuel economy might not be the top priority for a muscle car like this, the eight-speed does a decent job of keeping things reasonable. Ultimately, the choice between the 5.7L and 6.4L HEMI comes down to your personal preference and how much power you really need (or want!). But either way, you're getting a seriously potent engine that's worthy of the Daytona name.

5.7L HEMI V8: The Sweet Spot

Let's zoom in a bit more on that 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona engine 5.7-liter HEMI V8. This is often considered the sweet spot for many drivers, offering a fantastic balance of power, performance, and everyday usability. It's not the most powerful engine in the lineup, but it's definitely no slouch, and it provides more than enough grunt for most driving situations. With around 370 horsepower on tap, the 5.7L HEMI delivers strong acceleration and plenty of passing power. It's an engine that feels responsive and eager, making the Daytona a fun car to drive whether you're commuting to work or hitting the open road. One of the things that makes the 5.7L HEMI so appealing is its smooth and linear power delivery. It doesn't feel peaky or high-strung; instead, it just pulls strong and consistently across the rev range. This makes it easy to modulate the throttle and control the car, whether you're trying to conserve fuel or lay down some serious rubber. Of course, no discussion of the 5.7L HEMI would be complete without mentioning its signature exhaust note. This engine sounds absolutely fantastic, with a deep, throaty rumble that lets everyone know you're driving a V8 muscle car. It's a sound that's both refined and aggressive, perfectly complementing the Daytona's overall character. The 5.7L HEMI is also a relatively reliable engine, with a proven track record of durability. It's been around for a while now, and Dodge has had plenty of time to refine and perfect it. This means you can enjoy the performance without having to worry too much about major mechanical issues. All in all, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 is a fantastic engine choice for the 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona. It offers a great blend of power, performance, sound, and reliability, making it a true all-around winner. If you're looking for a muscle car that's fun to drive every day, this engine should definitely be on your radar.

6.4L HEMI V8: Unleashing the Beast

Now, let's talk about the 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona engine that truly unleashes the beast – the 6.4-liter HEMI V8. If you're a serious performance enthusiast, this is the engine you've been waiting for. It's a true powerhouse, delivering a staggering 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. With this kind of power on tap, the Daytona transforms into a rocket ship on wheels. Acceleration is simply brutal, with the car capable of hitting 60 mph in the low 4-second range. Passing power is effortless, and the car just keeps pulling hard at any speed. The 6.4L HEMI is an engine that demands respect, and it rewards you with an adrenaline-pumping driving experience like no other. What makes the 6.4L HEMI so special? Well, it's not just about the raw horsepower numbers; it's also about the way the engine delivers that power. It's incredibly responsive, with virtually no lag, and it pulls like a freight train from just about any RPM. The engine feels strong and muscular, with a seemingly endless supply of torque. Of course, the 6.4L HEMI also sounds absolutely incredible. It has a deep, aggressive growl that's guaranteed to turn heads wherever you go. It's the kind of sound that makes your heart race and your palms sweat, a true symphony of American muscle. But the 6.4L HEMI isn't just about straight-line speed. It also makes the Daytona feel more confident and composed in the corners. The extra power allows you to accelerate out of turns with authority, and the engine's responsiveness makes it easy to maintain your desired speed and trajectory. If you're looking for the ultimate performance experience in your 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona, the 6.4-liter HEMI V8 is the way to go. It's an engine that's not for the faint of heart, but if you're a true gearhead, you'll absolutely love it. Just be prepared to burn through some tires!

Performance Specs: Numbers That Matter

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about the 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona engine performance specs. Numbers don't lie, and these figures will give you a clear picture of what each engine is capable of. As we mentioned earlier, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 churns out around 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. This translates to a 0-60 mph time in the mid-5-second range, which is plenty quick for most drivers. The quarter-mile time is also respectable, typically falling in the low 14-second range. But the real star of the show is the 6.4-liter HEMI V8. With its 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, this engine delivers truly mind-blowing performance. The 0-60 mph time drops to the low 4-second range, and the quarter-mile time is typically in the high 12-second range. These are serious numbers, putting the Daytona in the same league as many dedicated sports cars. It's worth noting that these performance figures can vary slightly depending on factors such as the car's weight, the tires, and the driving conditions. But in general, you can expect the 6.4L HEMI Daytona to be significantly faster than the 5.7L version. Beyond the raw acceleration numbers, it's also important to consider the overall driving experience. The 6.4L HEMI feels noticeably more powerful and responsive in all situations, from city driving to highway cruising. It's an engine that always feels ready to go, with seemingly endless reserves of power. Of course, all that extra power comes at a price. The 6.4L HEMI is less fuel-efficient than the 5.7L, so you'll be making more frequent trips to the gas station. But for many performance enthusiasts, the trade-off is well worth it. Ultimately, the performance specs of the 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona engines speak for themselves. Whether you choose the 5.7L or the 6.4L, you're getting a seriously potent engine that's capable of delivering thrilling performance.

Beyond the Engine: Other Performance Enhancements

The 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona engine is undoubtedly the heart of the car's performance, but it's not the whole story. The Daytona package also includes a number of other performance enhancements that contribute to its overall driving experience. One key upgrade is the performance-tuned suspension. This suspension is designed to provide a more controlled and responsive ride, with less body roll in the corners. It helps the Daytona feel more planted and confident on the road, whether you're carving up twisty roads or blasting down the highway. The Daytona also gets upgraded brakes, which are essential for stopping all that horsepower. The larger brakes provide more stopping power and better resistance to fade, allowing you to drive with confidence even in demanding situations. Another important performance enhancement is the performance-tuned steering. This steering system provides a more precise and responsive feel, making it easier to place the car exactly where you want it on the road. It gives you a greater sense of connection to the car and the road, enhancing the overall driving experience. In addition to these mechanical upgrades, the Daytona also includes a number of electronic performance features, such as launch control and performance pages. Launch control helps you achieve the quickest possible starts, while the performance pages provide real-time data on things like horsepower, torque, and G-forces. These features add another layer of excitement and engagement to the driving experience. The Daytona package also includes a number of cosmetic enhancements that set it apart from the standard Charger. These include unique wheels, a rear spoiler, and special badging. These visual cues let everyone know that you're driving something special, a true performance machine. All of these performance enhancements, combined with the powerful engine options, make the 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona a truly special car. It's a blend of classic muscle car attitude with modern technology and performance, a combination that's hard to beat.

Choosing the Right Daytona Engine for You

So, you're thinking about getting a 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona? Awesome! But now comes the big question: which 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona engine is right for you? The answer, as with most things in life, depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a great balance of power, performance, and everyday usability, the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 is an excellent choice. It provides plenty of grunt for most driving situations, and it's relatively fuel-efficient compared to the 6.4L. The 5.7L HEMI is also a more affordable option, so it's a good choice if you're on a budget. It's a fantastic engine for daily driving, long road trips, and the occasional burst of spirited performance. You'll still have that classic V8 rumble and plenty of power to pass other cars on the highway. On the other hand, if you're a serious performance enthusiast who wants the ultimate in power and acceleration, the 6.4-liter HEMI V8 is the way to go. This engine is an absolute beast, delivering mind-blowing performance that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. With 485 horsepower on tap, you'll be able to smoke just about anything on the road. The 6.4L HEMI is perfect for those who enjoy track days, drag racing, or just the thrill of raw power. It's an engine that demands respect, and it rewards you with an exhilarating driving experience. Of course, the 6.4L HEMI is more expensive and less fuel-efficient than the 5.7L. But if you're a true performance junkie, you probably won't mind the extra cost and gas consumption. Ultimately, the best way to decide which engine is right for you is to test drive both of them. Get behind the wheel of a Daytona with the 5.7L HEMI, and then try out one with the 6.4L HEMI. See which one feels better to you, and which one better suits your driving style and needs. No matter which engine you choose, you're getting a fantastic car in the 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona. It's a true American muscle car that's sure to provide years of driving enjoyment.

The 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona: A True Muscle Car

In conclusion, the 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona engine options offer a compelling choice for anyone seeking American muscle car performance. Whether you opt for the balanced power of the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 or the raw ferocity of the 6.4-liter HEMI V8, you're getting an engine that's designed to deliver thrills. The Daytona isn't just about straight-line speed, though. It's a well-rounded performance machine that also handles well and offers a comfortable ride. The performance-tuned suspension, brakes, and steering all contribute to a confident and engaging driving experience. And let's not forget the iconic Daytona styling. With its unique wheels, rear spoiler, and special badging, the Daytona stands out from the crowd. It's a car that looks as good as it performs, a true head-turner. The 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona is a modern muscle car that pays homage to its legendary predecessors. It's a car that's steeped in history and tradition, but it also offers the latest in technology and performance. It's a blend of classic and modern that's hard to resist. If you're looking for a car that's fun to drive, powerful, and stylish, the 2017 Dodge Charger Daytona should definitely be on your list. It's a true American icon that's sure to provide years of driving enjoyment. So, what are you waiting for? Go check one out and experience the thrill of the Daytona for yourself!