Muscle cars are back, and simply put they’re better than ever. Not only do modern muscle cars look and perform like the ones from decades ago, but the level of competition and one-upmanship is back as well – which is great for all of us.
During a recent test by Motor Trend, the “usual suspects” were put to the test, including the 2011 Ford Mustang GT powered by a new 5.0-liter V8 pitted against the Chevrolet Camaro SS and the Dodge Challenger SRT8.
Why Muscle Cars?
For any life-long car enthusiast, today’s modern muscle cars may be a dream come true. Not only do they possess the attitude and allure of cars from the 1960s, but they’ve been reborn with the amenities and performance that meet the demands of car buyers in the new millennium.
Most muscle cars from the 60s and 70s lost steam over the years and eventually disappeared altogether. The only one that pushed on – for better or worse – was the Ford Mustang. But now that some of these cars have been resurrected, consumers can either relive their childhood or begin a new chapter in their quest for (relatively) cheap speed.
Perfect Time For A Test – 2011 Brings More Power
All-new for 2010, the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro in particular have seen tremendous success. And the Dodge Challenger SRT8, with its brute power and classic lines, has won plenty of fans and awards in its own right.
But perhaps the most notable challenger in this recent comparison is the 2011 Ford Mustang. While it looks the same as the 2010 model, the 2011 Mustang replaces its archaic V8 with an all-new 5.0-liter 4-valve Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) V8 engine delivering 412 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque.
Chevrolet Camaro SS
For 2010, Chevrolet brought back the Camaro after a long hiatus. And rather than simply bringing back a poorly executed version of something we all loved just to get consumers in the showrooms, GM actually did it right. From the pricing, to its engines, to its fuel economy, and even its interior quality, the 2010 Chevy Camaro is everything the Camaro should be and more.
“Inside this hulk of a two-door is a fine sports car clamoring to escape,” says Motor Trend editor-at-large Arthur St. Antoine, concluding “the Mustang feels like a scalpel; the Camaro a hammer.”
Styling is a departure from the last generation Camaro, and instead it takes on the current retro trend. Generally speaking we don’t mind it, but the odd proportions, thick A-pillars, and exaggerated interior pieces are not for everyone.
For those not entirely sold on the Camaro’s styling, don’t fret. Just listen to the V8’s snarl and you’ll for sure be sold.
Power is supplied by a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 offering 422 horsepower and 408 lb-ft. of torque. Helping to make this car a competitive all-around performer is a near perfect 52/48 weight distribution, massive Brembo brakes, and wide track. Not only is the Camaro a beast on the track, but it also delivers a controlled and rather refined ride for everyday driving.
Dodge Challenger SRT8
As the biggest car in the group, the Dodge Challenger SRT8 definitely makes its presence known. Add to that the incredible baritone note from its sultry V8 engine and the SRT8 simply cannot be ignored.
“Really special. Not the class or speed leader, but so full of character. Hemi note is just sublime as you’re gunning uphill,” notes St. Antoine.
Powering the Challenger SRT8 is the 6.1 liter HEMI V8 engine that produces 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Despite all that power, the SRT8 has the grip and the stopping power to match. Going into corners, the suspension is also firm enough to nearly eliminate body roll, but its also forgiving enough for daily driving.
Cruising around the the Challenger SRT8, bystanders cannot help but stare. From the rumbling Hemi, to the aggressive wheels, and even the available loud paint choices, the SRT8 looks the part of a real sports car. However, it’s disadvantages are its poor fuel economy, massive proportions, and curb weight that really limits its performance.
Ford Mustang GT
Armed with its new engine, not to mention having the lowest base price and highest EPA fuel economy of the pack, the 2011 Ford Mustang GT is a force to be reckoned with.
While not the most intimidating of the group, the latest Mustang GT seems to have achieved the right formula.
“The Mustang feels like a real car — mature, adult, grown up, but still fun and sexy.”
For 2010, the Mustang GT was powered by an engine that was 15 years old. This time around, the GT sports the “5.0″ badge once again and delivers 412 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque from its new engine. But perhaps what’s most impressive is that it also earns a class-leading 26 mpg highway and 17 mpg city. That’s not too bad for a car that can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
While the new engine is a substantial improvement over the previous generation, the 2011 Mustang isn’t perfect just yet as the brakes and the gearbox aren’t quite on par with the added power. That said, the 2011 Mustang offers what may be the best priced offering in the group.
The Verdict: 2011 Ford Mustang GT vs 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS vs 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8
Although each of these muscle cars have admirable qualities in their own right, the 2011 Ford Mustang GT was deemed to have the perfect balance. Its lightweight chassis, spirited V8 engine, and smart design, helped win over the editors at Motor Trend. With the lowest base price of the group, it also offers incredible bang for the buck, just as it always has. [via Motor Trend]
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