The era of muscle cars may be coming to an end as automakers transition to electrification. While electrification is more accepted in everyday cars, pickup trucks, and SUVs, sports car and muscle car enthusiasts are less keen on the idea of abandoning fuel and exhaust for electric power. However, Dodge has unveiled the Charger EV Concept, giving us a glimpse of what the future of electric muscle cars could look like. Let’s explore everything we know about this groundbreaking vehicle.
Dodge has not released many details about the production version of the Charger electric muscle car. So far, we have only seen production-ready concepts and vague promises. However, when Dodge revealed the Charger Daytona SRT Concept Stryker Red, it shared some information about its plans for electrified performance.
The Charger EV will be available in two trim classes: Charger 340 and Charger 440. The base Charger EV will have 455 horsepower, and additional horsepower can be added through over-the-air updates with “eStage kits.” Dodge will provide a “DC Crystal Key” and fender badges to authenticate and unlock the power upgrade. With these upgrades, the base Charger 340 can be upgraded to produce 495 or 535 horsepower. Similarly, the Charger 440 can be upgraded to 630 or 670 horsepower. There is also a high-performance model called the Charger Daytona SRT Banshee, which will run on an 800-volt architecture and could potentially have 707 horsepower or more.
The 2024 Dodge Charger EV will be built on Stellantis’ new STLA platform, specifically the STLA Large version. This platform supports battery sizes ranging from 101-118 kWh, potentially enabling a range of up to 500 miles with the right weight optimization and battery configuration. While it may not be the longest-range EV on the market, even 450 miles per charge would be impressive. Additionally, the Charger EV will offer fast charging rates of up to 20 miles per minute.
To address the concerns of V-8 enthusiasts, Dodge will incorporate sound synthesizing technology into the Charger EV. The Fratzzonic Chambered Exhaust System will emit a roar similar to that of a Hemi V-8, providing a more traditional driving experience for enthusiasts transitioning to electric cars.
As of now, there is no official information on pricing or availability for the Charger EV. However, considering the potential demand for high-performance models like the Banshee, pricing is expected to be higher, starting around $50,000 or $60,000 for the Charger 340 EV and potentially reaching closer to $100,000 for the Banshee.
The sixth-gen Chevrolet Camaro, especially with the 1LE package, is one of the best-handling muscle cars in the world, thanks to its capable chassis and impressive driving capabilities.
The rumored Z/28 version of the Camaro could potentially be the final send-off for the model before it gets discontinued.
The potential engine for the Z/28 could be the 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V-8 from the Corvette C8 Z06, although it might not come with a manual transmission.
The sixth generation of the Chevrolet Camaro has become one of the best muscle cars on the American market. From the base Camaro to the range-topping ZL1, all variants are wonderful cars to own and drive. The current alpha platform is a highly capable chassis that enhances the vehicle’s capabilities. Adding the 1LE package transforms the Camaro into one of the best-handling muscle cars in the world.
The Camaro made a comeback in 2010 after being discontinued since 2002. This generation introduced the 1LE handling package, which significantly improved the Camaro’s driving experience. The package was available with the ZL1 and the track-focused Z/28 model. The Z/28 was the best fifth-gen Camaro, and there are hopes of seeing it return for the sixth generation.
The Chevrolet Camaro is rumored to be discontinued once again after its revival. However, rumors suggest that Chevy might produce a Z/28 version as the final send-off to the Camaro lineup. The last Z/28 was produced in 2014. While it wasn’t the fastest Camaro in a straight line, it was the most track-focused and the lightest at that time. If Chevy produces the new Z/28, it is expected to follow the same track-oriented philosophy as its predecessor, and the available information has enthusiasts excited.
Aggressive Design And Aero Package
Bring a Trailer
The previous generation Z/28 had minor design changes compared to the 2014 Camaro. It shared updates with the 2012 Camaro ZL1 but had some exterior differences. The wheel arches were slightly wider to accommodate wider tires, the fog lights were removed, and it sported a slightly larger spoiler.
The new Z/28 is expected to take design inspiration from the sixth generation, which received a facelift in 2019. It may combine elements from the ZL1 1LE trim, featuring new headlights and taillight designs with an aero package and flared body similar to the ZL1 1LE. This could include a larger front splitter, front dive planes/canards, a lighter carbon hood, new lightweight wheels, fog light deletion, a big rear wing, and more lightweight components. These aggressive design elements and aerodynamic enhancements would help the Z/28 achieve exceptional grip and handling capabilities, making it a formidable track car.
A Focus On Being Lightweight
Chevrolet
The previous generation Z/28 prioritized weight reduction by removing various standard features, making it one of the lightest Camaros. Weight savings were taken to the level of high-performance manufacturers like Porsche. The Z/28 achieved weight reduction by incorporating a lighter battery, radio deletion, Recaro racing seats, thinner rear glass, reduced sound deadening, AC deletion, fog light deletion, and new 19-inch lightweight wheels.
The new Z/28 may also focus on weight reduction, although it may not eliminate as many comfort features as its predecessor. The current ZL1 1LE is 60 pounds lighter than the regular ZL1, indicating that the Z/28 is expected to be lighter than the current ZL1 1LE. Similar race-oriented mechanical parts used in the Z/28’s development may be incorporated.
A V-8 Engine From The Corvette Z06
Chevrolet
Rumors suggest that the Z/28 might be equipped with the 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V-8 engine from the Corvette C8 Z06. This engine would be a powerhouse for a car like the Camaro, considering that track-focused Camaros have previously shared parts with their Corvette counterparts. The previous Z/28 featured a 7.0-liter naturally aspirated V-8 engine that generated 505 horsepower and 481 pound-feet of torque.
Engine Specifications
Vehicle
2015 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28
Engine
5.5-liter NA V8
Layout
Front-Engine Rear-Wheel Drive
Transmission
Six-speed Manual
Power
505 Horsepower
Torque
481 pound-feet
0-60 MPH
Four seconds
Top Speed
172 MPH
The most powerful Camaro engine currently available is the 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 with 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. However, the Z/28 might not receive this engine and could instead get the C8 Z06’s engine. There is a concern that the C8 Z06 engine is only available with a dual-clutch transmission, while the previous Z/28 was only offered with a manual transmission. If the Camaro receives the C8 Z06 engine, it might not come with a manual transmission and could have slightly less power compared to the C8 Z06. The Z/28 is expected to share many race-oriented mechanical parts with the ZL1 1LE, featuring manually adjustable Multimatic spool-valve shocks, carbon ceramic brakes, and wide Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar tires. With this engine combination, lightweight components, and high-performance mechanical setup, the Z/28 will be an exceptional track weapon.
Performance Benchmarks For The Camaro Z/28
Chevrolet
The previous Z/28 was highly capable on the track, earning MotorTrend’s Best Driver’s Car in 2014. It competed against top performance cars such as the Alfa Romeo 4C, BMW i8, BMW M4, Jaguar F-Type R Coupe, Nissan GT-R Nismo, Porsche 911 Turbo S, Subaru STI, and the Porsche 918 Spyder.
The sixth-gen Camaro has received high praise for its incredible handling, similar to the previous Z/28. The new Z/28 would combine the best features of the current Camaro lineup, the 1LE handling package, and the finely-tuned Alpha chassis. With these enhancements, the Z/28 would be a formidable competitor against newer versions of its previous rivals, which now include the Porsche 992 GT3, Lamborghini Huracan STO, Dodge Challengers, Ford Mustang Dark Horse, and the Porsche GT4RS.
Camaro Z/28: Expected Price And Release Date
Chevrolet
Unlike the confirmed upcoming Corvette, the Z/28 currently remains a rumor. Limited information is available, and no test cars have been spotted, suggesting a longer wait for its release, if it happens at all. However, producing a Z/28 for the send-off of the Camaro before pursuing electrification plans would be a logical move.
While there is no specific timeline, it is expected that a new Camaro, including the Z/28, could arrive in the latter part of 2024. The price for a new Z/28 could be around $80,000, with a limited production run of approximately 1000 units, or potentially more based on demand. Enthusiasts hope that Chevy will create the ultimate Camaro of this generation with the Z/28.
When it comes to drag races, American muscle cars excel. But what happens when two of the most iconic names in the industry go head-to-head in a drag race with a twist?
That’s exactly what Edmunds wanted to find out. They organized a shootout between the 2023 Dodge Challenger Black Ghost and their long-term 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. The entire event was filmed and uploaded to Edmunds’ YouTube channel (video embedded at the top of this page).
The black-only Challenger is a limited-edition model with only 300 units produced. It is powered by Dodge’s well-known 6.2-liter V8 engine, delivering 807 horsepower and 707 pound-feet of torque. This power is sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Challenger Black Ghost weighs a hefty 4,476 pounds.
On the other hand, the 2020 Mustang Shelby GT500 is equipped with a smaller 5.2-liter V8 engine producing 760 horsepower and 625 pound-feet of torque. The power is sent to the rear wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission. The Mustang is lighter than the Challenger, weighing 4,168 pounds.
Although the Challenger seems to have the advantage in terms of power, torque, and transmission gears, this drag race is not typical. It is a U-Drag race, which includes acceleration, top speed, braking power, and some handling aspects. Additionally, after the first run, the drivers switch cars and race again to ensure fairness.
In the end, the Mustang with its smaller and less powerful V8 engine accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds, while the more powerful Challenger Black Ghost achieved the same speed one full second slower.
Watch the video above and share your thoughts in the comments section below!
Muscle cars are loved all over the world because they represent power and speed. Some muscle cars are famous for their performance, while others have gained recognition through their appearances in movies. The golden era for muscle cars was from 1960 to 1990, during which manufacturers produced some of the most iconic models. Many of these classic cars can still be purchased today, either at a reasonable price or at a premium at auction houses.
The 10 most iconic muscle cars of all time are:
10. 1970 Oldsmobile Cutlass 4-4-2
The ’70 Oldsmobile Cutlass 4-4-2 is a well-known muscle car. It is equipped with a 5.4-liter V8 engine and comes with a BO9 Police Apprehender Pursuit package. With the W30 package, the 455 CID V-8 engine produces 370 horsepower. It is considered one of the pioneers in the muscle car horsepower race and was even chosen as the Indianapolis 500 pace car in 1970. The price for a ’70 Oldsmobile Cutlass 4-4-2 can range from $100,000 to more depending on the condition.
9. 1969 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
The ’69 Chevy Camaro ZL1 is a street car with excellent racing abilities. It is powered by a 7.0-liter aluminum block ZL1 V8 engine, producing 430 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. Unofficially, some reports claim it can reach up to 550 horsepower. It has a fast 0-60 mph time of under 5.1 seconds. The ’69 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is valued at around $500,000 in today’s market.
8. 1969 Dodge Charger R/T
The 1969 Dodge Charger R/T is easily one of the most recognizable muscle cars. It has gained fame through its appearances in TV shows and movies, especially the famous Fast and Furious franchise. The R/T models were an upgrade, featuring a standard 440 Magnum engine or an optional 426 Hemi engine with 425 horsepower. The ’69 Charger R/T is currently priced between $50,000 and $150,000, depending on its condition.
7. 1970 Chevy Chevelle SS 454
The 1970 Chevy Chevelle SS 454 is a powerful muscle car known for its speed. It is equipped with a 7.5-liter Chevy big block V8 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. It has a top speed of 130 mph and a quarter-mile lap time of 14 seconds. The cost of a 1970 Chevy Chevelle SS 454 can range from $150,000 to millions, depending on its condition.
6. 1965 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350
The 1965 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350 is the work of Carroll Shelby, a legendary race car driver and automotive designer. It was an upgrade to the 1965 Ford Mustang, designed to be more menacing and suitable for racetracks. It is powered by a 4.7-liter Windsor K-Code V8 4-barrel carb engine, producing 306 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. Only 562 models were produced in 1965, and it is now valued at over $500,000.
5. 1985 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z
The 1985 Chevy Camaro IROC-Z is a popular muscle car known for its racing abilities. It features a fuel-injected 5.0-liter V8 engine, producing 155 horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque. It has a 0-60 mph time of 7.3 seconds. The ‘85 Camaro IROC-Z is recognized for its racing-inspired design and door tag. It is priced at around $10,000 to $20,000.
4. 1969 Yenko Camaro
The 1969 Yenko Camaro is a rare and highly sought-after muscle car. Only 201 models were manufactured, specially ordered by race car driver Don Yenko. It is equipped with a powerful L72 engine, producing 425 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. The ’69 Yenko Camaro is priced at over $300,000.
3. 1969 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
The 1969 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am is a classic muscle car that is highly regarded. It features a 400 cubic-inch L74 Ram Air III engine, producing 335 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. It has a fast 0-60 mph time of 5 seconds. The Trans Am is known for its racing-inspired aesthetics and design. Auction prices for the ’69 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am can exceed $100,000.
2. 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda
The 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda is one of the rarest muscle cars in existence. It is powered by a 7.0-liter Hemi V8 engine, producing 425 horsepower and 490 pound-feet of torque. It has a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. The ’71 Hemi ‘Cuda is highly sought-after and sold for millions of dollars at auctions.
1. 1970 Plymouth Roadrunner Superbird
The 1970 Plymouth Roadrunner Superbird is the most iconic muscle car of all time. It features a distinctive aerodynamic design with a high rear wing and a cartoon roadrunner graphic. It is powered by a 7.0-liter Hemi V8 engine, producing 425 horsepower and 490 pound-feet of torque. It has a top speed of 185 mph and can go from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The ’70 Plymouth Roadrunner Superbird is extremely rare and valuable, with auction prices reaching millions of dollars.
When it comes to American muscle car owners, they usually have little respect for European sports cars because they believe that car manufacturers from the Old Continent rarely produce vehicles that can match the power and affordability of US-made muscle cars. However, the opinion of muscle car owners can change when they come across a well-maintained used car like a Porsche 911, as shown in the video above.
The video, posted on the Gearbox Geek YouTube channel, showcases a well-preserved 2008 Porsche 911 Targa 4S. This video channel is known for providing detailed reviews, such as a 40,000-mile review of a Jeep Wrangler.
This particular Porsche 911 is a 997-gen model, equipped with all-wheel drive and a 3.8-liter flat-six engine in the rear. It delivers 355 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The car features a Tiptronic automatic transmission, which the owner isn’t completely thrilled about. Nevertheless, considering that it’s a second-hand car in mint condition, he understands that he can’t be too picky about it.
When it was brand new in 2008, the car had a price tag of $114,035. It stands out from other 997 models due to its unique features, such as red tinted tail lights, the Sport Chrono package, and a full-leather Sand Beige interior.
In 2020, the car was sold to the current owner, who equipped it with reproduction Fuchs black wheels. He proudly states that in his three years of ownership, the car has never gotten dirty enough to require a wash. Additionally, the car has never been exposed to rain, further demonstrating how well it’s been taken care of.
When Gearbox Geek purchased the car in 2020, it had only 8,200 miles on the odometer. As of last month, it has only reached 9,700 miles. In other words, on average, this red 997 has traveled just 646.6 miles per year since it was first bought back in 2008.
But how does it compare to driving a muscle car? According to the video, the actual owner initially found it difficult to get excited about driving a Porsche. However, after spending some time behind the wheel of the German-made sports car, he realized that the experience was unlike anything else, even with the automatic gearbox.
The 997 generation of the Porsche 911 was launched in 2004, following the controversial 996-gen, which introduced water cooling for the first time in this iconic two-door coupe. Manufactured until 2013 at the company’s factory in Stuttgart, Germany, the 997 was available in various versions, including the base Carrera, Targa, Turbo, GT2, and GT3.
As always, the viewers of the video are encouraged to share their thoughts in the comments section.
Dodge has been making headlines with its gas-guzzling, big-power muscle cars. Even the Durango full-size SUV has received a Hellcat variant. But the Dodge lineup has been stale for a long time and only making updates to old vehicles that have been in production since 2011. But Dodge has recently introduced an all-new model called the Dodge Hornet. This new vehicle inserts Dodge into the competitive compact crossover segment and aims to introduce a lot of new buyers to the brand.
On the other spectrum, Alfa Romeo has seen a resurgence in their brand with the introduction of the Giulia sedan and Stelvio SUV which are great vehicles. A third vehicle has joined the lineup which shares a lot of similarities with the Dodge Hornet. The Alfa Romeo Tonale was first previewed in 2019 so we knew it was coming, and it’s finally here. This is Alfa’s answer for a compact Italian crossover, and we expect it to be a good vehicle.
Is The Alfa Romeo Tonale Just A Better-Looking Dodge Hornet?
Alfa Romeo
Front three-quarter shot of the Alfa Romeo Tonale in motion
This would be right except the Tonale came first, it was first shown as a concept car at the Geneva Auto Show in 2019. It was a good-looking SUV with the Alfa Romeo design language, and to Alfa’s credit, the production vehicle looks just like the concept. The front has the iconic V Scudetto Grille and large bottom which has been a trademark of Alfa Romeo cars since the ‘50s. Its adaptive LED Trilobo headlight design looks interesting and gives the vehicle a sporty look.
The side profile of the Tonale is normal with black body cladding and the familiar five-hole which date back to the 1960s. The back end mimics the front with the Trilobo taillights but with a full-width light bar and no visible exhaust. Alfa Romeo has always drawn design inspiration from its history and the Tonale wears the modern interpretation well.
The Dodge Hornet has been teased before in 2006 but was pitched as a mini MPV and not a crossover. The new Hornet has no resemblance to that concept and Dodge has gone for an imposing look for this vehicle. Dodge has designed the upper and lower grilles with a honeycomb pattern to mimic a hornet’s hive with the Dodge Rhombi logo in front. A noticeable difference is the hood vents on the hood which are not present on the Tonale.
Dodge
Front three-quarter shot of the Dodge Hornet
The Hornet logo is also seen on the front quarter panel similar to a Hellcat logo on the other models. The side profile looks very similar to the Tonale with the black body cladding but the wheels are less interesting. At the back, the styling is similar to the Tonale but the LED light bar design looks like a smaller version of the one found on the Dodge Durango. A neat feature is the first-ever illuminated Rhombi logo.
Dimensions
Alfa Romeo Tonale
Dodge Hornet
Length
178.3 inches
178 inches
Width
72.4 inches
82 inches
Wheelbase
103.8 inches
103.8 inches
Height
63.2 inches
63 inches
Wheel size (inches)
18-20
17-18
Weight
4,133 pounds
4,140 pounds
Towing Capacity
2,000 pounds
2,000 pounds
Both car brands are owned by the Stellantis group and share the same small wide 4×4 LWB architecture. This means both cars also have similar dimensions but the Hornet is a bit wider and the non-hybrid trim is a bit lighter at 3,715 pounds. The Tonale is named after one of Italy’s highest mountain passes and takes shapes from nature. Meanwhile, the Hornet gets its name from a deadly wasp, and Dodge knows how to come up with cool names.
There are a lot of similarities in the design and layout of the interior of both vehicles. The steering wheel design and button locations are identical. Physical climate controls are found just beneath the center screen and the center console layout is the same. They also have similar features and technology which include:
12.3-inch digital instrument display.
10.3-inch center touchscreen.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Amazon Alexa.
4G LTE Wi-fi Hotspot.
14-speaker Harmon Kardon Premium Audio System (optional).
Power adjustable and memory seats.
Sunroof and many more.
There are a few differences like the start-stop button on the steering wheel of the Tonale but the Hornet has it on the center console. The side air vents have different designs, and the Tonale uses better materials compared to the Hornet. Interior room is similar in both vehicles since they have the same wheelbase. But the Hornet has more cargo space at 27 cubic-feet while the Tonale has just 22.9 cubic feet. This is because of the underfloor storage in non-hybrid Hornet GT models.
The Dodge Hornet Offers More Powertrain Options
Dodge
Yellow and Red Dodge Hornets in motion
Alfa Romeo Tonale Vs Dodge Hornet PHEV And Dodge Hornet GT
Alfa Romeo Tonale
Dodge Hornet RT
Dodge Hornet GT
Engine
I-4 Turbo hybrid
I-4 Turbo hybrid
I-4 Turbo
Displacement
1.3 liters
1.3 liters
2.0 liters
Power
285 horsepower
288 horsepower
268 horsepower
Torque
350 pound-feet
383 pound-feet
295 pound-feet
Transmission
Six-speed automatic
Six-speed automatic
Nine-speed automatic
Drivetrain
All-wheel drive
All-wheel drive
All-wheel drive
Fuel economy (MPG)
23/29 City/Highway
NA
21/29 City/Highway
EV Range
30 miles
30 miles
None
Battery
15.5 kWh
15.5 kWh
None
Fuel tank (gallons)
11.2
11.2
13.5
0-60 MPH
6 seconds
5.6 seconds
NA
The Alfa Romeo Tonale and Dodge Hornet share a similar four-wheel drive hybrid powertrain with a slight power bump in the Hornet. While the Tonale has only one powertrain, the Hornet also gets a slightly bigger non-hybrid engine option. Performance numbers are also similar at 6 seconds but the Hornet is a bit faster, and both cars have a range of over 300 miles. There are different drive modes available for each car which changes its character depending on your choice:
The Tonale has four modes which are: Dynamic, Natural Mode, Advanced E, and ESC Off.
The Hornet has three modes which are: Hybrid, Electric, and eSave mode.
There are a lot of safety features equipped in these vehicles to keep you safeorn. They include:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Roll Stability Control (RSC)
Traction Control
Blind Spot Monitoring Blind Spot
Forward Collision Warning
Lane Keep Assist
Lane Departure Warning
Collision Mitigation-Front
360 Camera
Brembo brakes and many more.
Reliability hasn’t been the strongest aspect for either brand but they do provide acceptable warranty:
Alfa Romeo Tonale Vs Dodge Hornet Warranty
Duration
Alfa Romeo
Dodge Hornet
Basic Years
4
3
Basic Miles
50,000
36,000
Drivetrain Years
4
5
Drivetrain Miles
50,000
60,000
Corrosion Years
5
5
Corrosion Miles
Unlimited
Unlimited
Roadside Assistance Years
4
5
Roadside Assistance Miles
Unlimited
60,000
The Alfa Romeo Tonale Is More Expensive
Alfa Romeo
Front shot of a blue Alfa Romeo Tonale
Alfa Romeo has a more upscale brand recognition compared to Dodge. Although they may be similar in a lot of ways the Alfa Romeo Tonale has a higher MSRP when compared to the Dodge Hornet. The Alfa Romeo Tonale is a big premium over the Dodge Hornet but the badge and design do deserve an extra charge. Prices for the Tonale Start at $44,590 while the Hornet starts at $32,330 with more expensive trim levels.
The competition between Detroit muscle cars for sales dominance is coming to an end, but the Camaro is determined to go out with a bang. While it will be discontinued at the end of the year without a clear successor, the Camaro has made significant strides in narrowing the gap with its rivals. For years, it has lagged behind the Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang in sales, but now the margin is surprisingly close.
Just how close are we talking? In the period from April to June, Chevrolet sold 9,557 new Camaros. Although it remains in third place, it’s worth noting that Ford sold just 10,760 Mustangs during the same period. This is the smallest gap we’ve seen between these two rivals in a long time, and the sales trends are favoring the Camaro. Compared to the previous quarter, the Chevy has seen a remarkable 110% increase in sales, while the Mustang has dipped by 2.2%. If this pattern continues, Chevrolet may surpass Ford before bidding farewell to its beloved Camaro.
Even the Dodge Challenger, which has dominated the pony car segment as Detroit’s best-selling car for the last two years, is not performing as well as the Camaro. Dodge technically outsold Ford and Chevrolet with 12,904 Challengers, but that still represents an 11% decrease from the previous year. Overall, Challenger sales are down 5% compared to last year and it’s currently narrowly trailing the Mustang for the top spot.
Vehicle
Q2 2023 Sales
Q2 YoY Change
YTD 2023 Sales
YoY Change %
Ford Mustang
10,760
-2.2 percent
25,471
-2.9 percent
Dodge Challenger
12,904
-11 percent
24,275
-5 percent
Chevrolet Camaro
9,957
+ 110.3 percent
17,337
+ 54 percent
Granted, the Camaro had a poor sales year in 2022, but so did the Mustang. 2022 was Ford’s worst year for pony car sales ever, but the introduction of a new generation could reverse this trend. The 2024 Mustang, unveiled last September, will be available for sale later this year with more power from its standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder and 5.0-liter V8 engines.
Meanwhile, Chevrolet is offering a Collector’s Edition package for various Camaro trims as production winds down. The Dodge Challenger is also available in multiple special edition trims to commemorate the end of its production.
For more discussions on the history of Ford and other brands, check out this special episode of Motor1.com’s Rambling About Cars podcast, available below.
Jay Leno’s Garage features the latest off-road-capable machine, the Ford F-150 Raptor R, with Tony Greco, the muscle truck’s program manager and engineer. This video showcases a detailed discussion about the truck’s specifications and development. The Raptor R is equipped with a modified version of the 5.2-liter supercharged V8 found in the Mustang Shelby GT500, developing an impressive 700 horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque, providing an excellent rev range.
The ’80s were not one of the best times in the car industry for muscle cars, but it sure left things open for sports cars. Small cars with big engines that could push out more horsepower than any of the big displacement engines could have ever dreamed of, which is where the idea of a supercar comes in. The label of a supercar is as debated then as it is now, with some saying that the Ford GT1 was the first, others claiming that the original supercar was the Ferrari Miura, while others say you need to go back even further to the 1954 Mercedes-Benz.
No matter how you feel about the subject, the one thing that most experts can agree upon today is that a supercar is a high-performance car (usually a sports car) that can pump out over 400 horses and reach speeds of over 200 MPH. Of course, that is by today’s standards which the vehicles in the ’80s could not meet, at least not the top speeds anyway.
NOTE: Since this list could be organized in many different ways, please note that it was designed to go from the supercars that produce the lowest horsepower to the ones that top out at the highest power numbers for the decade. It considers the amount of torque each can pound out, but it has no deciding factor on the list’s placement.
Even though the base-level Ferrari Testarossa back in the 80s does not fall under the definition of a supercar today, back in the day, it was one of the premier supercars on the planet. If you were riding around in a Ferrari (or a Lamborghini), you were on top of the world. The mid-mounted 380 horsepower 4.9L flat-12 engine pushed the torque to the rear drive tires through a five-speed manual gearbox, pushing the car from 0 to 60 in a mere five seconds.
Ferrari Testerossa Pros
Easy handling due to sensitive controls
Full of luxury for the decade
Aerodynamic without spoilers
Ferrari Testerossa Cons
Noisy when driving over 95
Upholstery comes apart at the seams
Issues starting when the engine is warmed up
91985 Lamborghini Countach: 455 Horsepower
Mecum
Front and side view of a 1985 Lamborghini Countach
The 1985 to 1988 Lamborghini Countach LP5000S QV was the most powerful version throughout the ’80s, only giving way to the Lamborghini Diablo in 1990. For the end of the decade, the company stuck with the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V-12 engine behind the cockpit in the middle of the car. The 455 horsepower could accelerate the car from 0 to 60 in 5.1 seconds, rocketing it down the quarter-mile track in right around 14 seconds.
Lamborghini Countach Pros
Superb handling
Craftsmanship is top-of-the-line inside and out
Carburetors have been replaced with fuel injectors
Lamborghini Countach Cons
Very warm in the cockpit when driving
No power assist anything
The pedals are too far to the right
81987 Porsche 959: 450 Horsepower
Mecum
Front and side view of a 1987 Porsche 959
Pure excitement is what you get when climbing behind the wheel of a 1987 Porsche 959. It only takes 3.6 seconds to reach 60 mph from a dead stop on its way to the top speed of 199 mph due to the 450 horsepower twin-turbocharged 2.8L flat-six Boxer engine. Mated to the engine is a six-speed manual transmission that sends the 368 pound-feet of torque to all four wheels. Under the car, you will find all kinds of innovative technology for the time period, such as active suspension and an all-wheel drive system that can send the power and torque to the drive tires that need it.
Porsche 959 Pros
Adjustable ride height adjustments
Automatic transfer of power to drive tires needing it the most
The 1987 Ruf CTR may look like a basic Porsche Carrera on the outside, but you would be wrong. The Ruf CTR is a version of the car that has been stripped, updated, improved, and put back together. The supercar has been bored out to a 3.4L that can push out 463 horses that is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. The 408 foot-pounds of torque is sent to the rear tires through the drivetrain, pushing the car from 0 to 60 in 3.7 seconds, with a registered top speed of up to 213 mph.
Ruf CTR Pros
Steel body panels were all replaced with aluminum to reduce the weight
Intake ducts were added to rear flares to help cool the engine
Ruf CTR has a full roll cage inside for added safety
Ruf CTR Cons
The manual gears are hard to shift unless you are paying full attention to the task
Can skid sideways when under power very easily
Steering jerks sideways
61987 Ferrari F40: 471 Horsepower
Ferrari
Front and side view of a 1987 Ferrari F40
When you take a car engineered for a rally race, converted over for road racing, and produced for the street, you get a beast of a supercar. In this case, that specific car is the 1987 Ferrari F40 with a 471 horsepower twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V-8 that shoots the car from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. The 426 pound-feet of torque is sent to the rear-wheel drive tires through the five-speed manual transmission, helping the car achieve its top speed of 201 mph.
Ferrari F40 Pros
Simple and to the point: build to perform, not to impress
The actual power output of the engine may well be over 500 bhp
Three-pipe exhaust system (one specifically to remove gases from the twin turbos)
Ferrari F40 Cons
Extremely low ground clearance caused issues on uneven roads
The Interior had no creature comforts, including no radio, door panels, or door handles
Distorted and blocked view in all directions
51986 Ford RS200 Revolution: 600 Horsepower
Another car initially designed to compete in the Group B rally races that quickly became known as a supercar was the 1986 Ford RS200 Revolution. It was powered by a 600 horsepower 2.1L turbocharged Cosworth BDT-E inline four-cylinder stashed in the middle of the Ford. The 400 pound-feet of torque is pushed out to the all-wheel drive tires through a five-speed manual transmission mounted in the front of the car, helping push the car from 0 to 60 in just over 3 seconds (a world record that stood for over 10 years.)
Ford RS200 Revolution Pros
Front drive tires always engage first, producing better traction
Double wishbone suspension helps with handling on all types of road surfaces
Exceptional ride quality on and off the beaten path
The 1989 Vector W8 may not have been designed and produced by one of the more familiar car companies. However, it still tops the list of one of the most powerful supercars of the 80s. It was a mid-engined design offered a 625 horsepower twin-turbocharged 6L eight-cylinder that could help the car from 0 to 60 in 3.8 seconds. The three-speed automatic transmission moved the 649 pound-feet of torque to the rear-wheel drive tires to help it reach its claimed top speed of 242 mph.
Vector W8 Pros
High-quality interior construction made from aircraft-grade materials
GM engine and transmission, so easy to find parts for
GM parts make it easy to work on and modify even further
Vector W8 Cons
No anti-lock brakes were ever included in the design
Power steering was not thought to be a necessity, so it was cut out to reduce the weight
Three-speed transmission limits high revs
31980 Aston Martin Bulldog; 700 Horsepower
edvvc via Wikimedia Commons
Front and side view of a 1980 Aston Martin Bulldog
One of the most futuristic-looking cars on this list is the 1980 Aston Martin Bulldog, but in the ’80s, it did not look all that out of place. Under the hood was a 700 horsepower 5.3-liter twin-turbocharged eight-cylinder engine that could push out up to 499 pound-feet of torque. The Bulldog makes use of a five-speed manual transmission to get from 0 to 60 in 5.1 seconds, and as of 2023, it finally reached its mark of reaching its top speed of 200 mph.
Aston Martin Bulldog Pros
The wheels have integrated cooling fans to keep the brakes from overheating
Lights were hidden in the hood to help improve aerodynamics
The gullwing doors come up to allow ease of entrance and exit
Aston Martin Bulldog Cons
The fuel injection system has been removed and replaced with dual Weber carbs
Front and side view of a 1988 Callaway Corvette Sledgehammer
A supercar with all of the creature comforts still in the cockpit was hard to find in the ’80s, which may be one of the biggest draws towards the 1988 Callaway Corvette Sledgehammer. For others, it may be the 880 horsepower 5.7L eight-cylinder engine with twin turbochargers. From 0 to 60, the car can accelerate in 3.9 seconds, and overall, the Sledgehammer can top out at an incredible 254.76 mph. It uses a six-speed manual transmission and has been lowered by an inch compared to the average 1988 Corvette to offer better handling and performance.
Callaway Corvette Sledgehammer Pros
Block is up to NASCAR specifications with forged pistons and connecting rods
Heads are aluminum made by Brodix
Stainless steel exhaust with four mufflers for perfect combustion
Callaway Corvette Sledgehammer Cons
The electrical systems are known for shorting out on the 1988 Corvettes
The original brake master cylinder can malfunction and cause the brakes to stop working
If you think the 1988 Koenig Competition looks a bit like a Ferrari, you would be right on the nose because it is based on the Ferrari Testarossa. The Competition offers a mid-engine 1,000 horsepower twin-turbocharged V-12 that can push out up to 737 pound-feet of torque. If that is not enough to raise the hair on the back of your neck, imagine going 0 to 60 in 3.5 seconds on your way to its top speed of 229 mph. The five-speed manual transmission is smooth and easy to shift, making this car the rightful top dog of the 1980s supercars.
Koenig Competition Pros
The racing suspension was added for better handling and performance
Racing brakes were added for better stopping power
The chassis is stiffened to account for the added power and torque
Koenig Competition Cons
1000 bhp car was a special order, the base level was only 800 bhp
Takes both hands on the wheel when launching to keep control
Too powerful for everyday traffic
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
