A Complete History of SRT Cars

Car manufacturers have committed to producing higher-powered, faster vehicles for decades. The development of the well-known Street and Racing Technology (SRT) brand was a turning point for high-performance car engineering. What makes these supercars special is the innovative techniques engineers use to develop more powerful engines, ultimately creating vehicles that are equally at home in a drag race as they are on the city streets.

With their supercharged engines, incredible horsepower and unprecedented handling, SRT cars are innovators in automotive history. Dive into the origin story of the SRT automobile group and how these vehicles became some of the highest-powered cars in America. Plus, get answers to some of the most common questions about SRT cars. 

Origins of the SRT Brand

SRT is an automobile group within Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), an Italian-American corporation containing several car brands, from Dodge and Chrysler to Alfa Romeo and Maserati. SRT began as an initiative by Dodge to develop the Dodge Viper in 1989. Although the SRT brand has seen many changes over the years, it's still known for its commitment to designing the latest and greatest muscle cars with incredible speed and power.

Team Viper

The foundation for SRT cars was laid in 1989 when the then-president of Chrysler, Bob Lutz, decided the brand needed to create an iconic sports car to revive the Shelby Cobra. Experts set out to develop a car with a V-10 engine that would eventually become the Dodge Viper. To create this new sports car, Chrysler formed "Team Viper," a band of designers, engineers and mechanics to get the idea rolling.

A model of the Dodge Viper, the RT/10, was first displayed at the Detroit Auto Show in 1989 to resounding acclaim. This first-generation Viper had a 400-horsepower, 8-liter V-10 engine developed with Lamborghini, though the car lacked features like glass side windows, a roof, outer door handles and air conditioning. Still, high praise from sports car enthusiasts drove production in the early '90s.

Team Viper was a superstar crew of engineers and mechanics, many of whom had road racing experience. The team had the prototype ready for Lutz in December 1989, which served as the pace car at the Indianapolis 500 in 1991. Production began soon after, and the Viper quickly became the hottest sports car of the decade. The vehicle's impressive speed and specs soon became a threat to the popular Corvette.

Team Viper had created a sports car with more power and speed than other vehicles of its day — a new era of high-powered sports cars was beginning.

The Emergence of Specialty Vehicle Engineering  

After Team Viper created Dodge's super snake, Chrysler needed a show-stopping follow-up. Part of the solution was another Chrysler team working on a very different car. A group of mechanics and designers had recently banded together to design the Plymouth Prowler.

Called "Team Prowler," this group of engineers was working on a hotrod-inspired vehicle. The Prowler had features that made it more suitable for everyday driving than the Dodge Viper, including air conditioning, power windows, door locks and a stereo. The Prowler was released in 1997 and continued production until 2002.

To gain the creativity and insights of both teams, Chrysler merged Team Viper with Team Prowler to form a group called Specialty Vehicle Engineering (SVE). SVE was dedicated to increasing vehicle performance through engineering developments. This exclusive team was a hub of innovation at the height of its engineering game.

The First SRT Car

Interestingly, the first SRT car to wear the SRT badge wasn't a muscle car and didn't have an impressively large engine. The Dodge Neon SRT-4 was introduced in 2003 and had a turbocharged V-4 engine. The SVE team had heavily enhanced an earlier Dodge Neon, including modifying the chassis. The Dodge Neon SRT-4 was popular among motorsports enthusiasts, dominating its class and capturing the world speed record for V-4 cars in 2006. This car truly earned the Street and Racing Technology moniker.

That same year, Chrysler gave SVE a new name — Performance Vehicle Operations. Vehicle performance was the name of the game, with PVO charged to create the highest-powered American muscle cars. PVO's task was to experiment with the available technology to increase the intensity of different Chrysler vehicles. The elite group of engineers went to work enthusiastically, injecting adrenaline wherever possible.

All PVO vehicles wore the SRT badge to describe their agility and speed. Since PVO already used the name, the group renamed itself SRT in 2004. The brand was official.

Growth of the SRT Brand

SRT was now a symbol of cutting-edge vehicle engineering. The brand continued to grow in the coming years as SRT tuned and produced cars for Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep. Take a look at some of the most prominent SRT cars across brands:

Dodge SRT Vehicles

The home of the SRT brand, Dodge created several leading SRT vehicles that were influential as SRT grew.

One of the earliest SRT cars produced under the group's new name was the Dodge Viper SRT-10. The third-generation Dodge Viper replaced the RT/10 and generated 510 horsepower. SRT created more engine modifications until the 2017 SRT Viper GTS generated 645 horsepower. Although Dodge discontinued the Viper in 2017, the car's legacy of power continues as a symbol of the classic American supercar.

Another early SRT collaboration led to the reappearance of a concept that began in 1996 but never made it to production — a Dodge Ram using a Viper engine. The Dodge Ram SRT-10, which debuted at a 2002 auto show, was a performance pickup with incredible power. The Ram SRT-10 raced ahead of the competition on the Viper's V-10 engine. The regular cab model could go from 0-60 miles per hour in under five seconds, with the extended cab model trailing just behind at a bit over five seconds.

The last of the early generation Dodge SRT cars, the Dodge Magnum SRT-8 was first produced in 2005. This station wagon received the 6.1-liter Hemi V8 engine and could roar from 0-60 miles per hour in just over five seconds. 

Early SRT Chrysler Cars

SRT began releasing Chrysler cars in 2005 with the Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6 and the Chrysler 300C SRT-8. The Crossfire SRT-6 has the distinction of being the only SRT model with a V6 engine. The supercharged 3.2-liter engine generated 330 horsepower. In several ways, the car was a spinoff of the Mercedes SLK, using its brake and suspension components.

The Chrysler 300C SRT-8 was a major point in the development of muscle cars. The vehicle was a newer version of the 1955 Chrysler C-300, a racecar geared toward NASCAR. The 300C SRT-8 used a 6.1-liter Hemi V8 engine, the same type of engine the C-300 employed. The SRT model was far more powerful, producing 425 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. The 300C SRT-8 could go from 0-60 miles per hour in just over four and a half seconds.

SRT Jeep Cars

Jeep released an SRT version of its Grand Cherokee in 2006. The Grand Cherokee SRT-8 generated 420 horsepower with a 6.1-liter Hemi engine. Jeep has since developed newer and more powerful SRT vehicles, some of which make it on the list of highest-performing SRT cars.

Reunited With the Dodge Brand

Chrysler announced in 2014 that the SRT brand would be reabsorbed into the Dodge brand. Viper fans were glad to see the brand return to its roots. Dodge's lineup of impressive muscle cars has since grown with high-performing models like the Challenger, Charger and Hellcat. Newer models are even more advanced than the original SRT automobiles, giving speed enthusiasts a range of powerful cars to enjoy.

Then, in 2021, FCA became part of Stellantis NV, a conglomerate based in the Netherlands. Stellantis NV now makes FCA car brands like Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep. SRT and supercar enthusiasts were anxious to hear that Stellantis had disbanded SRT soon after the merger, but the engineers in the division have all been absorbed into the global engineering division at the conglomerate. Stellantis announced that SRT cars will continue to be engineered and produced, assuring fans that high-performance SRT supercars will continue into the future.

The Future of SRT

Although the SRT brand is moving into the future, it'll see significant changes. SRT seems to be going electric with the announcement of the all-electric Dodge Charger Daytona SRT planned to release in 2024. While an electric muscle car may be unthinkable to many supercar enthusiasts, the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT promises to be quite the innovation — which, after all, is what SRT is about.

The roar of the exhaust is one of the hallmark traits of muscle cars, and the exhaust note on the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT had to be just right. Dodge engineers created an exhaust system in the supercar to move the air through an amplifier and tuning chamber, creating the characteristic sound. The car is poised to break previous speed records thanks to its 800-volt Banshee electric powertrain and four-wheel drive.

As automakers experiment with electric muscle cars, plenty of discussion has occurred amongst car lovers who aren't quite ready to see the V-8 engine go. That said, Dodge has put a lot of effort into their electric vehicle concepts, especially on the exhaust. Wherever electric muscle cars go, it's sure to be interesting.

Highest Performance SRT Cars

While the earlier SRT cars were impressive for their time, more recent models have upped the ante. Supercharged engines, incredible horsepower, high-performing suspension and stunning design all make these SRT supercars some of the best of the best. Here's the list of the highest-performing SRT cars ever made:

Dodge Charger SRT 392 

The Dodge Charger SRT 392 dropped in 2015, following the end of the production of the Charger SRT-8. This car's 6.4-liter V-8 engine generates 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive provide excellent handling on and off the track.

The final model of the Charger SRT 392 came out in 2018. Dodge discontinued the Charger SRT 392 that year in favor of newer muscle cars. While it may not be as impressive as some of the SRT cars that followed it, the Charger SRT 392 still sits rightfully on the list of highest-performing SRT cars.

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat 

The SRT brand is most often associated with the Dodge Challenger and Charger Hellcat line. The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat was first produced in 2015, and this SRT car made such an impression on the rest of the supercar industry that it forced the 2014 Dodge Challenger SRT-8 into early retirement. The Challenger SRT Hellcat was an old-school drag car that roared power and changed the supercar game.

The 2017 model was one of the best SRT Hellcats, with a 6.2-liter Hemi V8 engine generating 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. Outstripping slower traffic is easy in this sleek car. The Challenger SRT Hellcat can go from 0-60 in around three seconds, making this car one of the fastest SRT models available. The newer 2022 model has the same high-powered engine, this time delivering 717 horsepower and 656 pound-feet of torque.

Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat

Not to be outdone by the Challenger Hellcat, the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat is a beast of a car. The 2019 edition can blast from 0-60 miles per hour in just over three seconds and tackle the quarter mile in a mere 11.4 seconds. The supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine and eight-speed transmission give this car all the power you could want.

Newer editions of the Charger Hellcat are just as impressive. The 2022 Charger SRT Hellcat comes as a widebody to help channel the vehicle's immense power going around curves. Increased stability and wheel traction give this supercharged V-8 impressive handling. With an impressive 717 horsepower, this Hellcat guarantees seriously fast track times.

Dodge Challenger SRT Demon

The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is a street-legal drag racing devil that lives up to its name. SRT released the SRT Demon in early 2017, but the 2018 version is possibly the best. This variant of the Challenger leaves it all on the track with a 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 that muscles out 808 horsepower. With an experienced driver, the SRT Demon can clock a top speed of 211 miles per hour. The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is the only factory-built car that can pop a wheelie.

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Trackhawk

While the best-known SRT cars are Dodge vehicles, the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Trackhawk is another of the highest-performing SRT cars. The SRT Trackhawk blows both the Grand Cherokee SRT-8 and SRT 392 out of the water.

This animal of an SUV boasts an incredible 60-mile-per-hour blastoff thanks to its 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V-8. The impressive specs continue with the Trackhawk's 707 horsepower and 645 pound-feet of torque. With a top speed of 180 miles per hour, the SRT Trackhawk is the fastest SUV.

FAQs About SRT Cars

Supercar enthusiasts may have even more questions about the SRT brand and specific SRT cars. Check out the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about SRT.

What Does SRT Mean?

The name encompasses five specific criteria that all SRT vehicles meet:

• High-powered engines paired with robust transmissions
• Phenomenal handling
• Exceptional braking performance
• Interiors inspired by racecars
• Sleek and aggressive exteriors

As for what the brand represents, the answer is a little more nuanced. SRT is dedicated to putting the best performance vehicles on American streets, whether it produces coupes, trucks or SUVs. Every SRT car promises high horsepower and jaw-dropping speed. The SRT badge is sure to satisfy all car enthusiasts looking for high performance.

What Was the First SRT Car?

The first SRT car was the Dodge Neon SRT-4. The idea for this car came about in 1998 when Tom Gale, Executive Vice President of Chrysler Product Development and Design, decided the Dodge Neon could use a few performance upgrades. The heavily tuned Neon was released in 2003, wearing the SRT name but produced by PVO. The Dodge Viper SRT-10 was also released in 2003.

The first SRT car made after PVO renamed itself after its brand was the Dodge Ram SRT-10. This performance pickup was released in 2004, soon after the name change. Some of the other vehicles first produced by the SRT team were the Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6 and Dodge Magnum SRT-8, both released in 2005.

When Did SRT Become a Thing? 

SRT became a brand in 2003, though the PVO didn't officially change its name until 2004. While SRT is no longer a separate engineering division within Stellantis NV, the SRT brand lives on in new muscle cars like the 2022 Dodge Challenger SRT, the Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye and the 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat.

How Many Different SRT Models Are There? 

There are currently three SRT models in production:

1. Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat
2. Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat
3. Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat

However, older versions of SRT cars are still out there, including Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep vehicles dating back to 2003. Car enthusiasts may be able to find older SRT models for sale on the resale market, even going back to some of the first generation Dodge Neon SRT-4 and Dodge Viper SRT-10 vehicles.

Which SRT Is Fastest?

The fastest SRT car is the 2022 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody, with a top speed of 203 miles per hour. This supercar clocked a 10.6-second quarter-mile. Although the Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye has the fastest top speed, another SRT car actually holds the fastest quarter-mile time. The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon hit the quarter-mile line within an incredible nine and a half seconds.

What Is the Strongest SRT? 

The strongest SRT car is the 2021 Challenger Dodge SRT Super Stock, grinding out a whopping 807 horsepower. Following close behind is the 2020 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye. The 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 engine can pump out a stunning 797 horsepower.

Find Your Dream SRT at Volo

If you're looking for your dream SRT car, you can find it at Volo Museum Auto Sales. At Volo Museum Auto Sales, our mission is to provide you with the top-quality service that comes with decades of experience. We've been family owned and operated since 1960, built by and for car enthusiasts.

Browse through our inventory of collector vehicles to find your dream car. You can also go through our collector car locator to be the first to know when we add SRT vehicles to our inventory. If you have any questions, contact us, and we'll be glad to assist you.