2021 Dodge Challenger vs 2021 Ford Mustang

The 2021 Dodge Challenger, even in its base SXT form, exuded a unique charm with its retro-inspired design. Its large, imposing presence was reminiscent of a mid-size SUV, with squared-off fenders and round headlights that commanded attention. The Challenger's style, once considered retro, had become a familiar sight, with its twin hood scoops and double-nostril grille emphasizing its width. The car's design choices, such as the hump in the body's shoulder line and slim windows, contributed to its stocky and thick appearance. While the base model on 18-inch wheels appeared sedate, the Challenger's true character emerged with larger 20-inch wheels and vibrant paint options. The interior, unchanged since the 2015 refresh, offered a nostalgic touch with analog gauges and a standard central display, though it lacked the modern flair to impress contemporary car buyers.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford Mustang boasted unmistakable curb appeal with its flowing lines and scowling front-end, blending retro elements with modern design. The cabin continued this theme, combining classic-style switches with digital screens, resulting in a well-finished interior with soft-touch surfaces and brightwork. The Mustang's trim levels ranged from the EcoBoost to the new Mach 1, each offering a unique set of features. The base EcoBoost came with 17-inch alloy wheels, manual seats, and a basic infotainment system, while the EcoBoost Premium added more comfort and tech features. The GT trim introduced a powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine, and the Mach 1 further enhanced performance with components from the GT350. The Mach 1's options, such as magnetic ride control and the Mach 1 Appearance Package, added to its appeal, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger offered a wide range of performance options, with horsepower figures ranging from 303 to 807. The base SXT and GT trims featured a V6 engine, which was adequate for highway cruising but lacked excitement. The R/T trim introduced a 375-hp, 5.7-liter V8 engine with a six-speed manual transmission, providing a more engaging driving experience. The R/T Scat Pack took it further with a 485-hp, 6.4-liter V8 and larger brakes. The Hellcat models, with their supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engines, delivered jaw-dropping performance, with the SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody achieving 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 203 mph. Despite their power, the Challenger's handling and steering were unremarkable, with V6 models lacking grip and V8 models relying on weight and traction control for stability.

The 2021 Ford Mustang, on the other hand, offered a more balanced performance experience. The EcoBoost trim featured a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 310 horsepower, with an optional High-Performance Package increasing output to 330 hp. The GT trim's 5.0-liter V8 engine delivered 460 hp, providing exhilarating straight-line performance. The new Mach 1 model added 20 hp to the GT's V8, resulting in 480 hp and an impressive exhaust note. The Mach 1's 10-speed automatic transmission kept the engine in the optimal rev range, while the drive-mode selector allowed for tailored driving experiences. The Mustang's handling was characterized by taut steering and active power, with the Mach 1's Brembo brakes and chassis components from the GT350 enhancing its performance capabilities.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger offered impressive cargo space, with 16 cubic feet in the trunk, surpassing many sedans and its competitors. While technically seating five, the rear seats were best left unused, as the Challenger was more suited for two occupants. The driver's seat provided a moderately good view, though the side mirrors were small. The interior featured conventional controls and a user-friendly UConnect infotainment system. The seats were comfortable, with various material and color options, and the steering wheels offered multiple designs and controls.

The 2021 Ford Mustang provided decent cargo space, with 13.5 cubic feet in the fastback coupe and 11.4 cubic feet in the convertible. The rear seats were cramped for adults, making them more suitable for small children or additional cargo. The front seats offered power adjustment options, though the lack of power adjustment for the seat-back was disappointing. Despite this, the seats were well-bolstered and supportive for long drives or spirited driving.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger's technology offerings were less impressive in the consumer electronics realm. The standard 7-inch touchscreen was small, but it included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 8.4-inch screen was a recommended upgrade, offering navigation and real-time performance data through the Performance Pages app. The UConnect system allowed for custom driving modes, and a proximity key was standard. Optional features included an Alpine audio system, driver's seat memory, and adaptive cruise control, though no semi-automated highway system was available.

The 2021 Ford Mustang's base model came with a 4.2-inch color display and voice controls, while the Premium trim offered the intuitive Sync 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen. Sync 3 supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the lack of a home button was a notable omission. The system's layout was user-friendly, with crisp graphics and large icons. While newer Ford models featured Sync 4 with larger touchscreens, the Mustang's technology was still competitive within its class.

The 2021 Dodge Challenger received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, but its old body structure revealed weaknesses in IIHS testing. It scored "good" in only two of six tests, with "marginal" ratings for the driver in the small overlap front test. The optional forward emergency braking was rated "basic," and available driver assists included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.

The 2021 Ford Mustang came standard with the CoPilot360 suite, which included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Rain-sensing wipers and automatic high beams were also standard, though adaptive cruise control and parking sensors were optional. The Mustang's visibility was better than its competitors, providing solid sight lines.