Technically, you can put a Hellcat engine in almost any car, but it is far from a simple "drop-in" procedure. The real answer is that the feasibility, cost, and safety of such a swap depend entirely on the recipient vehicle. It involves extensive custom fabrication, supporting system upgrades, and serious financial investment, often exceeding the value of the car itself. For most people, it's more practical to buy a factory-built performance car.
The core challenge is integration. The 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 is a massive engine, both in physical size and weight. You're not just dealing with engine mounts; you need to ensure the chassis and frame can handle the torque without twisting. The stock drivetrain—transmission, driveshaft, axles, and differential—in most cars is not built for the Hellcat's 700+ horsepower and will fail catastrophically. This necessitates a complete drivetrain swap, often from a donor vehicle like a Challenger or Charger.
Next, you must upgrade every supporting system. The stock brakes are completely inadequate for the new weight and speed, requiring a massive brake kit. The fuel system needs high-flow pumps and lines. The electrical system and ECU (Engine Control Unit) must be integrated, which is a complex task on modern, computer-laden vehicles. Cooling is another critical issue; the supercharger generates immense heat, so a large, custom radiator and intercooler setup are mandatory.
Finally, there are legal and safety considerations. The vehicle may not pass emissions testing in many states, and such a radical modification could void insurance coverage if not properly documented and certified. The table below compares the requirements for swapping a Hellcat engine into different types of vehicles.
| Vehicle Type | Feasibility | Key Challenges | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|
| Classic Muscle Car (e.g., 1970 Charger) | High | Frame reinforcement, custom headers, wiring integration | $40,000 - $80,000+ |
| Modern RWD Car (e.g., Nissan 370Z) | Moderate | Transmission tunnel modification, custom ECU tuning, brake upgrade | $50,000 - $90,000+ |
| Truck/SUV (e.g., Jeep Wrangler) | Moderate-High | Strengthening chassis, heavy-duty drivetrain, cooling system | $45,000 - $75,000+ |
| Front-Wheel Drive Car | Very Low | Completely new chassis design, custom AWD conversion, space constraints | $80,000 - $120,000+ |
| Small Import Car (e.g., Miata) | Low | Extreme space limitations, major chassis cutting, weight balance issues | $60,000 - $100,000+ |
In short, while an exciting idea, a Hellcat engine swap is a project for experienced fabricators with deep pockets, not a weekend DIY endeavor.
