Best Muscle Cars of 2025 and 2026
The Edmunds experts test drive muscle contenders on our test track and in the real world. Our ratings assess performance, comfort, technology, utility, value and more. How we rank muscles
Best Muscle cars
As American as triple cheeseburgers, muscle cars are brawny coupes based on the age-old belief that there's no problem a bigger engine can't fix.
1st
Redesigned in 2024
Read full review about2025 Ford Mustang Dark Horse
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.0/10
- MSRP
- $63,080
- Combined MPG
- 17
2nd
Redesigned in 2024
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.9/10
About Ford MustangRead Summary Close Summary
The Ford Mustang is a thrilling yet practical muscle car, with enough civility in any trim for daily use. The V8-powered models deliver pulse-quickening performance and sound.
- MSRP
- $31,920 - $63,080
- Combined MPG
- 17 - 26
3rd
Redesigned in 2024
- Edmunds Rating
- 6.9/10
About Dodge Charger DaytonaRead Summary Close Summary
In many ways, the new Dodge Charger represents a massive improvement over the previous Charger. The car's handling and interior are far superior to the old model, and the available 670 horsepower and all-wheel drive make it a potent performer on the street. However, the Charger's high cost, love-it-or-hate-it soundtrack, and lack of sophistication give it an uphill battle against more established EV rivals.
- MSRP
- $57,995 - $64,995
Selected 0 vehicles for comparison
FAQ
Which is the best muscle car to buy?
There are only a few muscle cars on the market, and each offers its own benefits. The Dodge Challenger is big and brash, with distinctly retro styling and a choice of several powerful V8s. The Chevrolet Camaro is the athlete of the bunch, delivering razor-sharp handling and punchy engines no matter your budget. But our favorite is the Ford Mustang, which offers a sublime balance of comfort and performance. For our money, there isn't a better muscle car at its price point. Learn more
What is the best muscle car for 2020?
The Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro have their charms, but they can't beat the Ford Mustang's overall excellence. The Mustang gets even better for the 2020 model year, with the introduction of a performance package for models with the base turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The mighty Shelby GT500 also returns for 2020, powered by a supercharged V8 producing a massive 760 horsepower. Learn more
What is the best muscle car for 2019?
The best muscle car on the market is the Ford Mustang. The Mustang lineup expanded in 2019 with the release of the Bullitt trim, named after the 1968 film starring Steve McQueen, whose character notably drives a uniquely configured Mustang through the streets of San Francisco. The modern Bullitt is an homage to the coupe in the iconic movie and features similar styling as well as increased power from the V8 and performance upgrades. Learn more