Ford Mustang vs Dodge Challenger: Which Car Should You Buy?

Looking back, the Mustang’s journey, kick-started by Ford in ’64 and punctuated by numerous makeovers over time, echoes its enduring appeal as a quintessential American muscle car.

In ’64, Ford dropped the Mustang and, like a bat out of hell, it quickly became one of the world’s top sports cars. With its eye-catching design, strong engines, and wallet-friendly cost, the Mustang instantly won over auto fans from every walk of life. The Mustang has kept its muscle car DNA through many changes over the years.

The Dodge Challenger, however, entered the scene in 1970 with its sights set on rivaling the Mustang and other hot sports cars of that era. However, the Challenger sported muscular V8 engines and an eye-catching retro design reminiscent of 1960s muscle cars. The Challenger was produced until 1974 then it was discontinued, but it was reintroduced in 2008, and it has been in production ever since. Dodge is now bringing out the EV version of the Dodge Charger for future gearheads!!

Why Choose A Ford Mustang?

The Ford Mustang is a classic American sports car that offers a variety of features and benefits. Some of the key features and benefits of the Ford Mustang include:

• Because limited budgets demand strategic thinking. The Ford Mustang is known for its powerful engines and sporty handling. Based on the model and trim you pick, the Mustang offers various engine choices – from a V6 to a turbocharged 4-cylinder, even up to a beefy 5.0-liter V8. These power-packed engines promise an adrenaline rush, delivering ample horsepower and torque for impressive speed and acceleration.
• Styling: The Ford Mustang is an iconic car that is instantly recognizable, with its classic design and unmistakable pony logo. From the understated elegance of its base model, all the way to the fierce aesthetics of its GT and Shelby versions, Mustang gives you a whole spectrum of design choices.
• Technology: The Ford Mustang comes with a variety of advanced technology features, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, Ford’s SYNC 3 system, and a rearview camera. In the top-tier models, you might also find perks like a navigation setup, blind spot tracking and an epic 12-speaker audio system.

Why Choose A Dodge Challenger

The Dodge Challenger really stands out with its high-octane performance, timeless design, cutting-edge tech features, robust safety systems, ability to be customized to your liking and enduring legacy in American culture.

• Performance: The Challenger packs some seriously beefy engines under the hood. Depending on the model and trim you pick, your Challenger might pack a punch with an engine range from a 3.6-liter V6 to a supercharged 6.2-liter V8.
• Styling: The Dodge Challenger is an iconic car that is instantly recognizable, with its classic design and unmistakable crosshair grille. From the understated elegance of the base model to the bold fierceness of the R/T, SRT, and Hellcat versions, you’ll find a variety in style across Dodge Challenger’s lineup.
• Technology: The Dodge Challenger comes with a variety of advanced technology features, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, Dodge’s Uconnect system, and a rearview camera. On the higher-end models, you’ll also find features like a thumping Harmon Kardon audio system, built-in navigation for those road trips, and blind spot detection to keep you safe on busy streets.
• Safety: Loaded with safety features like stability control, traction control and a bunch of airbags, the Dodge Challenger really goes all in on protection.
• Customization: The Challenger lets you pick from different models with their own stuff. There are tons of ways to trick out your Challenger so it’s one-of-a-kind.

Challenger vs Mustang Horsepower

When comparing muscle cars like the Ford Mustang and the Dodge Challenger, the Dodge Challenger SXT is a strong contender in its own right. With its powerful 303 horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 engine, the Challenger SXT is ready for an epic battle. The base Mustang EcoBoost Fastback, on the other hand, has a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 310 horsepower.

There’s more, though! The R/T model in the Challenger lineup ups the power game with a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine that makes 375 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. The R/T Scat Pack takes things even further with a huge 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine that makes an amazing 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque.

Enter the Stallion: Mustang’s GT and Shelby!

In the blue corner, we have the iconic Ford Mustang, ready to counterpunch with its own arsenal of powertrains. The Mustang GT flexes its muscles with a 5.0-liter V-8 engine generating 450 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. Opt for the Mach 1 trim, and you’ll squeeze out even more power, with 470 horsepower on tap.

But the pièce de résistance of the Mustang lineup is none other than the Shelby GT500, a true beast of the asphalt. With a supercharged 5.2-liter V-8 engine roaring under the hood, the GT500 unleashes a jaw-dropping 760 horsepower and 625 pound-feet of torque, leaving competitors trembling in its wake.

Dodge Challenger Hellcat Has All The Horsepower

However, the showdown between Mustang and Challenger power levels reaches its peak with the Hellcat models. Dodge’s Hellcat variants, equipped with a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V-8 engine, boast an earth-shattering 717 horsepower and 656 pound-feet of torque.

Interior Benefits: Comfort and Convenience Clash!

When comparing the Dodge Challenger vs. Ford Mustang, it’s not just about what’s under the hood but also about the creature comforts within.

The Challenger takes the lead with a standard eight-way power driver’s seat, offering superior adjustability and comfort compared to the Mustang’s standard four-way manual driver’s seat. Additionally, the Challenger SXT boasts dual-zone automatic climate control, providing personalized comfort for both driver and passengers, while the Mustang EcoBoost Fastback settles for manual single-zone climate control.

Mustang vs Challenger Pricing

While horsepower and interior features are essential considerations, price often plays a decisive role in the Mustang vs. Challenger showdown. Despite the impressive features of the Challenger, the Mustang EcoBoost Fastback holds a slight edge with a lower starting price. However, as you ascend the performance ladder, the price gap narrows, with both manufacturers offering competitive pricing for their high-performance variants.

Final Thoughts: Ford Mustang for the track, Challenger for the streets

When it comes to the Mustang, it’s a whole different ball game with its array of engine selections, chic aesthetics and high-tech features. On the flip side, the Challenger is like a beefy time machine, boasting retro looks, room to stretch out in and gutsy V8 engines that come packed with tech.

At the end of the day, picking between these two rides really boils down to what you personally value in a whip. If you’re looking for a more practical, well-balanced sports car, the Mustang is the way to go. But, if you’re after a ride that’s both gutsy and roomy, the Challenger ticks all those boxes.

Common Questions About The Ford Mustangs & Dodge Challengers

Which is faster, Mustang GT or Challenger R/T?

The Ford Mustang GT boasts a quicker 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds, edging out the Dodge Challenger R/T, which completes the sprint in 4.8 seconds.

Is a Dodge Challenger more reliable than a Mustang?

According to J.D. Power’s Quality & Reliability ratings, the 2022 Dodge Challenger received a stellar score of 88 out of 100, indicating excellent reliability. While the 2022 Ford Mustang has not been rated, both vehicles are renowned for their durability and performance pedigree.

Which offers a more comfortable ride, Mustang or Challenger?

The Dodge Challenger takes the lead in ride comfort, thanks to its standard eight-way power driver’s seat and spacious interior dimensions.