Chrysler’s 6.2-liter Hellcat crate engine, introduced in 2017, has become a popular choice for restomodders seeking a powerful supercharged V8. This high-performance engine has found its way into various Mopar models, both classic and modern.
Classic Mopars like the Dodge Charger and Challenger have been frequent recipients of the Hellcat engine, but Plymouth models haven’t been overlooked. Road Runners, Barracudas, and GTXs have all been seen with the 707-horsepower V8.
Mopar itself has embraced the Hellcat engine for classic cars. In 2019, they showcased a 1967 Belvedere with a Hellcat engine at the Woodward Dream Cruise. This stunning turquoise Belvedere, with its mostly stock appearance, is a standout example of a Hellcat conversion. Its choice of the often-overlooked Belvedere adds to its appeal.
Another 1967 Belvedere has recently been fitted with the Hellcat engine. Unlike Mopar’s original build, this Belvedere II is a fully-restored restomod with a custom paint job, modern wheels, and upgraded interior. This classic muscle car boasts a striking red exterior, enhanced by a massive hood scoop that evokes the legendary Super Stock race cars of its era.
The addition of a Hellcat engine under the hood is a modern twist on a timeless design, necessitating the practicality of the hood scoop to accommodate the powerful engine. The Belvedere’s rear end is now equipped with meaty tires, ensuring it can effortlessly conquer the quarter-mile in an impressive 11 seconds.
The car’s stance is further enhanced by modern, wider wheels wrapped in low-profile tires, effectively channeling the Hellcat’s substantial power to the road. Discrete “Hellcat” badges on the front fenders subtly hint at the vehicle’s hidden potential. Beyond these modifications, the Belvedere remains largely faithful to its original 1967 design.
Inside, the cabin has been modernized with modern bucket seats and a wide center console, replacing the original seats. The sports steering wheel and Alcantara/leather upholstery complete the transformation.
While the dashboard and door panels retain their original appearance, the interior now exudes a more contemporary feel. Under the hood, the Hellcat engine sits snugly, its 707 horsepower a significant upgrade from the original Belvedere’s engine options, which ranged from a 225-cubic-inch slant-six to the iconic 426-cubic-inch HEMI V8.
The Hellcat’s power output is truly remarkable, offering a thrilling driving experience that blends the nostalgia of a classic muscle car with the modern performance of a high-performance engine.
