Whats the difference between a Charger R/T E48 and E49?

Aaron Lofts
Contributor
26 Jun 2018
2 min read

But getting your hands on a 'Six-Pack' Hemi isn't quite as straight forward as it seems. Just what's the difference between an E48 and E49 equipped Charger?

Chrysler Australia's E48 and E49 come with 4.3-litre Hemi engine fitted with triple Weber carburettors. The E48 is considered the mild-mannered street version, which pumped out a healthy 185kW, while the full-blown, King-Kong E49 version unleashed 225kW. Both were coupled to a four-speed BorgWarner gearbox, thus the designation of the '4' in the E48 and E49 codes.

The best source of info is the car's chassis plate. But only a 'real' car nerd can tell just by looking at the wheels.
The best source of info is the car's chassis plate. But only a 'real' car nerd can tell just by looking at the wheels.

Most E48 and E49 engine options were fitted to Chargers, however there were some oddballs such as one VH Pacer, and one VH Ranger sedan with the E49 option. There was also one VH Pacer, seven VJ Ranger XLs, and one VJ Regal sedan fitted with the E48 Six-Pack street engine. Talk about wolves in sheep's clothing!

If you're looking for a Charger that has racing pedigree - then the one to chase is the E49. But if you're looking for something a bit more affordable, but still packs a punch - then set your sights on the E48.

Both will give you that old-fashioned 'push you back in your seat' power surge, and each appears to be holding its own with collectors and enthusiasts.

Which car has the most complex options and chassis codes? Tell us in the comments.

Aaron Lofts
Contributor
From a very young age, Aaron was drawn to cars. Spotting chrome bumpered classics from the back seat of a 1978 Toyota Corolla as a child, his knowledge grew from basic brands and models to more details and specifications as a teen. He began buying and collecting magazines, reading them cover to cover absorbing as much information as possible. Primarily following local motor racing – and the cars they were built from, Aaron would watch the Bathurst 1000 coverage each year from start to finish. With a broad passion for all classic cars, his specialty is locally built and assembled muscle cars, whilst keeping an eye on the oddballs. Hunting for old cars and the stories surrounding them is a lifelong obsession, often finding them in the most unusual places or via the most unusual people. Fast talking and quick thinking, he’s always on the go. If you want to chat - you're going to have to try and keep up with him!
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