Dodge has introduced the Hurricane engine, a twin-turbocharged inline-six, as a formidable challenger to its legendary HEMI V8. Available in both crate and long-block form, the Hurricane packs a potent punch.
The HurriCrate Cat 1, starting at $10,495, delivers 420 horsepower, while the long block offers a more affordable entry point at $7,995. While the Hurricane commands a slightly higher price tag than its V8 counterpart, it delivers its peak torque of 468 lb-ft significantly lower in the rev range, promising a different driving experience.
Beneath the hood, these engines diverge significantly. The Hurricane’s aluminum block and forged steel internals contrast the HEMI’s cast iron construction and powdered metal connecting rods. Both employ aluminum pistons and cylinder heads, but the Hurricane’s crankshaft is also forged alloy steel.
A key feature of the Hurricane is its water-to-air charge cooler, a technology borrowed from its Charger SIXPACK and Ram 1500 SST siblings. As Dodge expands its engine lineup, the Hurricane’s performance and efficiency are poised to fascinate enthusiasts seeking a departure from the traditional V8 formula.
The Hellephant C170, a crate engine derivative of the infamous Demon 170, shares its predecessor’s penchant for high-octane fuel but falls slightly behind in terms of boost pressure, reaching a maximum of 22 psi compared to the Demon’s 21.3 psi. Both engines incorporate advanced technologies, such as PTWA coatings within the cylinder bores, to enhance durability and performance.
However, the crate engines offer even more extreme power outputs. Direct Connection’s flagship offering, commanding a hefty price of $59,990, delivers an astonishing 1,500 horsepower and over 1,000 lb-ft of torque.
In stark contrast, the more budget-friendly HurriCrate Cat 3, priced at $13,745, generates a respectable 550 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque, surpassing the high-output Hurricane found in the Charger SIXPACK and Ram 1500 SST by a margin of 10 lb-ft. This performance-oriented variant also boasts an increased boost at 26 psi and a sophisticated dual-inlet cooling system.
While the Hellephant and Direct Connection powerplants undoubtedly occupy the pinnacle of crate engine performance, the HurriCrate Cat 3 offers a compelling balance of power and affordability for enthusiasts seeking a significant performance upgrade without breaking the bank.
