From Scat Pack to Hellcat: Charles Baker’s 2017 Dodge Challenger Journey

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Charles Baker

2017 Dodge Challenger Hellcat

Instagram: @heyItsstingsrt

Photographer: Julian Brown

Instagram: @datboiwithacamera

A Lifelong Love for Cars: From Hot Wheels to Hellcats

My love for cars began at a young age, just like many other car enthusiasts. As a kid, I was obsessed with Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars, always excited to visit stores that had them on display. Seeing all the different makes and models sparked something in me. My fascination only grew when I started gaming on the PlayStation 2, playing classics like Crash Bandicoot and NASCAR. However, it was 2005’s Need for Speed: Most Wanted that truly ignited my passion for cars. Unlocking the 2006 Dodge Viper SRT-10 in that game cemented my love for Dodge. And of course, the Transformers movies fueled my admiration for muscle cars, further deepening my connection to the automotive world.

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My first Dodge was a 2009 V6 Charger, and that set the stage for what would become a long-standing love affair with Dodge vehicles. From there, I upgraded to a 2009 R/T Challenger, then a 2017 Scat Pack Challenger, and now, my pride and joy—a 2017 Dodge Challenger Hellcat. Although I’m a Dodge guy at heart, I wouldn’t be opposed to adding a Nissan GT-R R35 to the lineup in the future!

The Need for Speed: From Scat Pack to Hellcat

A Friendly Race That Changed Everything

At the time, I was driving my Scat Pack Challenger, which I thought was plenty fast. That was until I lined up against my buddy Chris, who had a stunning widebody B5 Blue Redeye. When we raced, he absolutely obliterated me—the speed, the sound of that supercharger—it was awe-inspiring. From that moment, I knew my next car had to be a Hellcat.

Now, my Hellcat is mostly stock under the hood, except for a Carbon Fiber Legmaker intake. While the engine remains relatively untouched, I’ve focused on cosmetic upgrades that truly make the car stand out. Some highlights include a high-gloss Autoflex wrap, custom headlights, and an air suspension system.

Build List: Bringing the Hellcat Vision to Life

Performance Upgrades

• Engine: 6.2L HEMI V8 with a 2.4L supercharger

• Brakes: 6-piston Brembo fronts, 4-piston Brembo rears

• Intake: Carbon Fiber Legmaker intake

Suspension and Exterior Mods

• Suspension: 3P Airlift Performance system with a hydro-dipped 4-gallon air tank

• Wrap: Custom high-gloss wrap by ZBR

• Headlights: EVL BEE custom headlights

• Aero: DFS Wickerbill, Carbon Fiber side skirts, and Carbon Fiber 3rd brake light diffuser

Interior and Audio

• Audio: Harmon Kardon subwoofers

• Windows: Tinted

Future Plans and Shout Outs: What’s Next for the Hellcat?

Performance and Cosmetic Enhancements

Looking ahead, I plan to dive deeper into the performance side of the build. A cam and tune are at the top of my list to squeeze even more power out of the Hellcat. On the cosmetic side, I’m seriously considering adding a widebody kit—I just haven’t decided on the style yet. It’s all about making this car as unique and powerful as possible.

A Community Effort: The People Behind the Build

This build wouldn’t be what it is today without the help of an incredible community. I want to give a huge shout-out to @Prodipper for the amazing wrap on my car and to Mike B for his hydro-dipping skills. A special thanks goes to my childhood friend @86.novas, aka Rakem, for always inspiring me and for our late-night talks about cars while gaming. My brother-in-law Jason deserves recognition for the countless hours he’s put into working on my cars, and my girlfriend Alexus, for always pushing me to go further and joining me on this journey. Lastly, I have to thank my mom and grandma for their unwavering support and motivation, and of course, everyone else who’s been part of this journey—you know who you are!

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