Summary

• The Chevrolet Camaro LT1 starts at $40,395 and comes with a 6.2-liter V8 engine that delivers 455 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. It has the fastest 0-60 time of the three at 4.0 seconds and is the lightest car weighing 3,619 lbs.
• The Dodge Challenger R/T has a base price of $40,900 and comes with a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine that produces 375 horsepower. It accelerates from 0-60 in 4.8 seconds and offers optional performance packages.
• The Ford Mustang GT Fastback starts at $44,735. It features a 5.0-liter V8 engine with 480 horsepower and a 6-speed manual transmission.

Gas-powered pony cars, like the Ford Mustang, Dodge Charger, and Chevrolet Camaro, are coming to an end. These iconic muscle cars have made their mark on the automotive industry and will soon be replaced by electric-powered versions. However, before they go, let’s take a look at the cheapest manual V-8 versions of these three legendary cars that can still be purchased in 2023.

Dodge has announced the last Challenger, the SRT Demon 170 “Last Call” edition, marking the end of its five-decade-long legacy. Chevrolet has also declared that 2024 will be the final year for the Camaro, with several Collector’s Edition trims planned to commemorate the farewell. Ford has already introduced the Mach E electric coupe under the Mustang name, and the 2024 Mustang will be the last with true muscle-car competition.

2024 Mustang GT Fastback

MSRP: $44,735

The 2024 Ford Mustang offers a variety of performance options and trims, with the Mustang GT Fastback being the most affordable V8-powered model starting at $44,735.

The updated 5.0-liter V8 engine under the hood produces 480 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, allowing the Mustang to accelerate from 0-60 in 4.3 seconds. It comes with a 6-speed manual transmission, but a 10-speed automatic is available as an option.

Standard features include a 3.55 limited-slip rear axle, 18″ Ebony Black Aluminum wheels, a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 13.2-inch center display. The driver enjoys a six-way power seat with lumbar support, while the passenger gets a four-way power seat. Additional interior upgrades are available with the Mustang GT Premium.

2023 Dodge Challenger R/T

MSRP: $40,900

The Dodge Challenger R/T is equipped with a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 engine generating 375 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. It can accelerate from 0-60 in 4.8 seconds and has a base price of $40,900.

The R/T variant comes with a standard 6-speed manual transmission and offers various optional packages to enhance performance and appearance. It features 20-inch machined wheels, an electronically controlled active exhaust system, upgraded brakes, and a limited-slip rear differential.

The R/T Scat Pack is the next variant in the lineup, featuring a more powerful V8 engine, larger four-piston Brembo brakes, heated steering wheel and seats, a premium audio system, and customizable driving modes.

2024 Chevrolet Camaro LT1

MSRP: $40,395

The Camaro LT1 is the entry-level variant in the Camaro lineup, starting at $40,395. It is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 engine with 455 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque, making it the most torquey option among the three cars. The Camaro LT1 has a 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds.

The Camaro is the lightest of the three cars, weighing 3,619 lbs. Standard features include a transmission oil cooler, dual exhaust, and optional Track Mode in the Drive Mode selector.

The Final Year Of Competition For These Models

These are the most affordable V-8-powered coupes with a manual transmission in 2023. The choice of the best one will ultimately come down to personal preference, but all three offer various packages to customize and enhance the driving experience.

As the era of gas-powered pony cars comes to a close, we bid farewell to the Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger, and Chevrolet Camaro. These vehicles symbolize American muscle and have left an indelible mark on the roads. While electric cars may be the future, we will forever cherish the memories and legacy of these iconic muscle cars.

Specifications And Performance

(Specifications sourced from automakers)

As we bid farewell to these gas-powered pony cars, we celebrate the memories they created. The Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger, and Chevrolet Camaro will always remind us of the joy and thrill of driving a powerful American muscle car. While electric cars mark the future, we will always remember these roaring beasts of the past.