2021 Dodge Challenger vs 2020 Ford Mustang

The 2020 Ford Mustang Bullitt paid homage to its cinematic roots, drawing inspiration from the iconic 1968 Mustang GT fastback driven by Steve McQueen in the movie "Bullitt." This special edition Mustang was painted in Dark Highland Green, mirroring the original, and featured subtle chrome accents and retro Torque Thrust-style 19-inch aluminum wheels. The exterior design was clean and classic, with minimal ornamentation, giving it a timeless appeal. Inside, the Bullitt boasted unique green stitching in the leather upholstery, a white cue-ball shifter knob, and a serialized plaque on the dashboard, all contributing to its nostalgic charm.

In contrast, the 2021 Dodge Challenger SXT, even in its base form, exuded a cool, retro vibe with its squared-off fenders, round headlights, and twin hood scoops. The Challenger's design emphasized its width, with a double-nostril grille and matching rectangular taillights. The car's stocky and thick appearance was further accentuated by slim windows and a chopped roof. While the base model rode on 18-inch alloys, higher trims offered 20-inch wheels, hood stripes, and a variety of bold paint colors, enhancing its aggressive stance. The interior, largely unchanged since the 2015 refresh, featured analog gauges, a central display, and optional upgrades like Nappa leather seats and carbon fiber accents.

The 2020 Ford Mustang lineup offered a wide range of performance options, from the 310-horsepower EcoBoost Fastback to the 760-horsepower Shelby GT500. The popular Mustang GT featured a 460-horsepower 5.0-liter V8, while the track-focused Shelby GT350 and GT350R delivered 526 horsepower. The Mustang Bullitt, based on the GT with Premium and Performance packages, produced 480 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, thanks to components borrowed from the Shelby GT350. The Bullitt's six-speed manual transmission, structural bracing, Brembo brakes, and MagneRide adaptive dampers provided a thrilling driving experience, blending raw power with refined handling.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger offered an impressive range of powertrains, from the base 3.6-liter V6 in the SXT and GT trims to the monstrous supercharged 6.2-liter V8 in the Hellcat models. The Challenger's horsepower options ranged from 303 to 807, with the SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody achieving 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 203 mph. Performance features included line lock for burnouts, launch control, and adaptive dampers. The R/T Scat Pack and Hellcat models boasted advanced cooling systems and launch assist, ensuring optimal performance. However, the V6 models lacked excitement, making the V8-powered trims the preferred choice for enthusiasts.

The 2020 Ford Mustang prioritized style and performance over practicality. The rear seat was cramped, and storage space was limited. However, the Mustang Fastback provided comfortable seating for two adults and a 13.5 cubic-foot trunk, suitable for a week-long road trip. Standard black leather seats with power adjustment, heating, and ventilation offered comfort, while optional Recaro performance seats provided better bolstering for spirited driving. The Mustang's interior design, though stylish, had some usability issues with shiny trim on the switchgear.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger excelled in cargo space, offering 16 cubic feet in the trunk, surpassing both the Camaro and Mustang. While technically a five-seater, the Challenger was best enjoyed as a two-seater, with the rear seat delete option recommended. The driver's seat provided a moderately good view, though the side mirrors were small. The interior featured conventional controls, a user-friendly UConnect infotainment system, and a variety of seat materials and color combinations. The seats were comfortable, with power adjustments and options for heating and cooling.

The 2020 Ford Mustang shone in performance technology, offering adjustable steering effort, multiple driving modes, Line Lock, Launch Control, and Track Apps for monitoring performance metrics. The 12-inch digital instrumentation cluster and Sync 3 infotainment system, though aging, provided Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. Separate stereo and climate controls added convenience.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger's standard 7-inch touchscreen was small, but the 8.4-inch screen with navigation was a worthwhile upgrade. The UConnect system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Performance Pages for real-time performance data. Optional features included an Alpine audio system, power steering column, driver's seat memory, SiriusXM, HD radio, 4G WiFi hotspot, xenon headlights, auto high beams, and rain-sensing wipers. However, driver assists were limited, with adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring available as options.

The 2020 Ford Mustang Bullitt lacked advanced semi-autonomous safety features, appealing to purists. Standard safety equipment included a reversing camera, MyKey technology, and optional blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert. The Mustang received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but struggled with IIHS tests, receiving lower ratings for roof strength, head restraints, and small overlap front crash tests. Available safety features included forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, but the Challenger's aging structure limited its safety performance.