Best Muscle Cars of 2024 and 2025

muscle

The Edmunds experts test muscle contenders on our test track and in the real world. Our ratings assess performance, comfort, technology, utility, value and more. How we rank

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
2024 Ford Mustang
Redesigned in 2024

Ford Mustang Dark Horse

Edmunds Rating
8.0/10
When properly equipped, the Dark Horse is capable of remarkable handling and impressive braking. The 500-hp V8 isn't too shabby either. While we think the biggest detriment to the Dark Horse is its steep asking price, we don't think you could build a better-performing and well-rounded Mustang for the same price. It already feels like a classic for the Blue Oval. Read full review
MSRP
$57,970
Combined MPG
17
2nd
2024 Ford Mustang
Redesigned in 2024

Ford Mustang

Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
About Ford Mustang

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. Read full review

MSRP
$30,920 - $57,970
Combined MPG
17 - 26
3rd
2023 Dodge Challenger
Redesigned in 2008

Dodge Challenger

Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
About Dodge Challenger

People typically overlook convenience in two-door cars, but the Dodge Challenger bucks that trend with a spacious trunk and roomy rear quarters. If it's performance you're after, the Challenger also offers some genuinely gonzo engines that don't stop till they pass 800 horsepower. Read full review

MSRP
$31,100 - $76,590
Combined MPG
15 - 23
4th
2024 Chevrolet Camaro
Redesigned in 2016

Chevrolet Camaro

Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
About Chevrolet Camaro

There's plenty of performance to be had in the Chevrolet Camaro, yet it also features precision handling. You expect the tire-smoking V8 acceleration, but even more striking are this Camaro's agility and poise around corners. Read full review

MSRP
$30,900 - $72,100
Combined MPG
16 - 20

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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

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