In the heady world of American muscle cars, two names have stood out from the crowd since the 1960s — the Dodge Charger and the Ford Mustang. They’ve both been updated many times over the years but have carried forward iconic styling reminiscent of their past designs. The vehicles are very similar and are great options for sports car enthusiasts.
For 2024, the Mustang has been fully redesigned with a new more modern interior, larger displays, and revised exterior styling. Dodge has announced details of the all-new Charger lineup, which includes the first all-electric muscle car alongside gasoline-powered models. Here at Huffines CJDR Lewisville, we’ve put together a comparison of the 2024 Dodge Charger vs. Ford Mustang to see how they stack up against each other.
Charger vs. Mustang Exterior Design
In a radical move, the next-generation Dodge Charger will be available as a two-door fastback coupe and a four-door sedan, each with a power rear hatch. You’ll be able to choose from Daytona R/T, Daytona Scat Pack, Sixpack S.O., and Sixpack H.O. trim levels. Two-door electric models will hit the streets in late 2024, while four-door and gas-powered models will arrive in early 2025.
The Charger has a low and wide stance for optimum performance, handling, and stability. Its sleek and aerodynamic retro design has some unique features. The exclusive front R-Wing has a pass-through that increases air flow for enhanced downforce. Distinctive full-width LED front lighting and rear LED “ring of fire” lights make the car stand out day or night, and you can choose from a range of striking 18- and 20-inch wheel designs.
Despite its full redesign, the Mustang’s muscular fenders, distinctive profile, and unique design cues are unmistakable. It has a low-slung road presence, a wide grille, and signature LED tri-bar headlights and taillights. The 2024 Mustang is offered in EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, and GT Premium trims with either fastback or convertible body styles, and, new for 2024, the fastback-only Dark Horse and Dark Horse Premium trims.
Powertrain Options and Performance
All electric Charger models feature all-wheel drive with powerful front and rear motors and a high-voltage battery pack that provide V-8 performance with instant torque and zero emissions. The Charger Daytona R/T trim delivers 496 horsepower for a zero to 60 mph time of 4.7 seconds. The Scat Pack pumps out a staggering 670 horsepower and an estimated 627 lb-ft of torque. Dodge claims it will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds and complete a quarter mile in 11.5 seconds.
When you hit the track, a rear limited-slip differential maximizes traction, while line lock and launch control give you a perfect start off the line. A PowerShot button gives the Charger a 40-horsepower boost for 15 seconds to reach maximum output. In a world first, a Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust gives the Charger a V-8 style roar to enhance your high-performance driving experience.
If you prefer gasoline power, the Charger Sixpack S.O. has a standard output 3.0-liter twin-turbo Hurricane in-line six-cylinder engine under the hood delivering 420 horsepower to the all-wheel-drive system. The Charger Sixpack H.O. features a high-output version of the twin-turbo Hurricane that makes 550 horsepower.
The new Mustang EcoBoost models feature a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. These trims are only available with a 10-speed automatic transmission. With the GT trims, you get a 5.0-liter V-8 delivering 480 horsepower and 415 lb-ft. For the Dark Horse trims, the V-8 is boosted to deliver 500 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque. The V-8 can be paired with a six-speed manual transmission or a 10-speed auto.
For your track days, Mustangs with the manual transmission feature rev-matching for smooth shifting however fast you go. Electronic line-lock enables you to warm up the rear tires for better grip at take-off, and the available drift brake helps enhance the adrenaline rush through the corners.
Eye-Catching Interiors
Inside the Charger, there’s a new driver-centric cabin with a minimal design that echoes the 1968 model and puts you at the heart of the action. On the center console, you’ll find a start button alongside the unique pistol grip shifter. The flat top and bottom steering wheel helps you guide the car accurately into the turns.
Cloth and faux leather seating is standard, or you can choose from red or black nappa leather upholstery. The highly bolstered seats hold you in place, even under hard cornering. Newly available 64-color Attitude Adjustment lighting reacts to driving and vehicle events for a totally immersive experience.
In the two-door Charger, the roomy trunk gives you 23 cubic feet of luggage space. With the rear seats folded flat, you get a class-leading 38.5 cubic foot cargo area. Electric models have a small front trunk for an extra 1.5 cubic feet of storage.
The Mustang’s stylish cabin offers six interior themes to suit your style. The EcoBoost trim features cloth upholstery, while other models have synthetic leather seats. Available RECARO seats provide the ultimate support. On all but the base model, multi-color ambient lighting helps you set the mood. The Mustang coupe’s trunk offers 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, while the convertible has 11.4 cubic feet for your gear.
Dodge Charger vs. Ford Mustang Technology
Depending on the trim, the Charger offers a customizable 10.25-inch or 16-inch digital instrument cluster that puts vehicle information just where you need it, and you can also opt for a head-up display. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system features a 12.3-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone integration, and access to Dodge Connected Services.
The Mustang now comes standard with an elegant 12.4-inch digital instrument display combined with a 13.2-inch central infotainment touch screen. Both the Charger and Mustang come with a suite of advanced safety and driver assistance technologies.
Which Muscle Car is for You?
This sports car comparison shows that the new Charger and Mustang are both great vehicles with superb features. However, with its Charger Daytona electric vehicles, Dodge is breaking away from the traditional. While you’re eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new Charger, check out our inventory of amazing high-performance Dodge vehicles at Huffines Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Lewisville and see the incentives we offer.