2021 Dodge Challenger vs Ford Mustang
2021 Dodge Challenger vs Ford Mustang
The American muscle car class has been a fierce competition for many generations. While muscle cars may seem like a dying breed in the modern age, two models are still going strong after many years. The Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang have been icons in the muscle car segment for over 50 years. After advancing year after year, both models are still daring the other to level up. Choosing just one of these American icons can be challenging, so we’ve put them side-by-side with their best features on display. Keep reading below to see what happens when the 2021 Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang go head-to-head!
2021 Dodge Challenger Power & Handling
The 2021 Dodge Challenger is eligible for four potent engines. Standard under the hood of the SXT and GT trims is a 3.6L V6 that kicks out 303 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque. Not a bad start to the lineup! The R/T trim kicks it up a notch with a 372-horsepower 5.7L V8 with 400 lb-ft of torque. The R/T Scat Pack swaps out the 5.7L engine with a 6.4L V8 to crank it up to 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. The Hellcat trim kicks out an exciting 717 horsepower and 656 lb-ft of torque with a supercharged 6.2L V8. The Hellcat Redeye houses a high-output supercharged 6.2L V8 for 797 horsepower. Lastly, the supercharged 6.2L V8 output is raised even higher for the drag strip-ready Super Stock for an exhilarating 807 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful production car in the world! The base V6 engine is linked with a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission. Meanwhile, the V8 engines come with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic. Are you looking to drive the Challenger year-round? All-wheel drive is available for the SXT and GT trims, while rear-wheel drive is standard across the lineup.
2021 Ford Mustang Power & Handling
Like the Challenger, the 2021 Ford Mustang is available with four engine options. The base engine is a turbocharged 2.3L I4 engine offering 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up to the GT trim, you’ll find a 5.0L V8 that kicks out 460 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. The Mach 1 trim comes with a high-output 5.0L V8 that amplifies the horsepower to 480, while the torque stays at 420 lb-ft. The last available engine is exclusive to the GT500 and offers 760 horsepower and 625 lb-ft of torque from a 5.2L supercharged V8 engine. All of the Mustang trim levels come with rear-wheel drive without the option of all-wheel drive. The turbocharged I4 engine and 5.0L V8 GT engine come with a 6-speed manual transmission, while the Mach 1 V8 and supercharged V8 come with a 6-speed manual transmission while a 10-speed automatic is available. The GT500 features a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
2021 Dodge Challenger Features & Design
The 2021 Dodge Challenger pays homage to the original models with the forward-leaning grille and two round headlights. On the Scat Pack and Hellcat trims, the inner two headlights double as air catches for added engine cooling. Inside, you’ll find a driver-centric dash with the center stack slightly angled towards the driver’s seat. The SXT trim comes with a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, a backup camera, keyless entry/push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control, 18-inch alloy wheels, and heated side mirrors. The GT trim adds fog lights, a hood scoop, rear parking sensors, paddle shifters, and performance steering and suspension. The R/T Scat Pack upgrades to Brembo four-piston performance brakes, line lock, a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, Performance Pages, and is also available in a widebody platform. The supercharged Hellcat, Hellcat Redeye, and Super Stock trims are all eligible for a widebody kit and offer performance features like dual-snorkel hoods with cold air intake, illuminated Air Catcher headlights, Track Mode, competition-tuned suspension, six-piston Brembo high-performance brakes, and SRT Power Chiller.
2021 Ford Mustang Features & Design
The 2021 Mustangs design also holds its muscle car heritage close. The long nose and short tail remain while the front end has been upgraded for a more aggressive and contemporary look. The three verticle taillights on either side of the rear end also nod at the older models. The Mustang also features standard 17-inch alloy wheels. The interior features a 4.2-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard equipment on the entry-level EcoBoost trim, while a more desirable 8-inch touchscreen is available on higher trim levels. Other standard features include HID headlights, keyless entry/push-button start, cloth upholstery, a backup camera, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Higher-level trims offer more premium features like dual-zone automatic climate control, 18-inch or 19-inch wheels, heated/ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, leather upholstery, Brembo brakes, and more.
Conclusion:
Arguably two of the most legendary muscle cars in American history, the 2021 Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang certainly have a fierce competition going. If you’re interested in getting behind the wheel of the iconic Dodge Challenger in the Akron, Ohio area, come on down to Fred Martin Superstore to work with one of our friendly sales team members. Or you can start your search right now by perusing our full inventory right here online!
