Looking for a car that's fast, loud, and fun to drive? The Ford Mustang has held its iconic position in culture since the mid-60s. But how does it do against old-school muscle competitors? Let's take a look at their features below in this 2026 Ford Mustang vs 2026 Dodge Charger sports car comparison.
Key Takeaways
Changes and Pricing in the Ford Mustang vs. Dodge Charger
Ford adds the FX package to the GT Premium trim to channel the Fox-body era, with design cues that defined Mustangs from back in the day. The optional Performance Package offers Oxford White fan-style wheels that nod to classic Cobra designs (other FX-equipped trims feature a white split five-spoke wheel instead). Ford's exterior retro look is complete with white grille nostrils, white-out taillights, and heritage-style badging.
Inside, leather seats with plaid inserts and blue-and-silver stitching continue the theme. A carbon-fiber trim from the Dark Horse gives the cabin both vintage and modern flair. Finally, Ford updates the color palette, with Adriatic Blue Metallic and the return of Orange Fury.
Ford gives buyers of all stripes plenty of trims to choose from. As of June 4, 2026, its pricing is:
- EcoBoost: $34,635
- EcoBoost Premium: $38,340
- EcoBoost Convertible: $42,115
- EcoBoost Premium Convertible: $43,840
- GT: $48,555
- GT Premium: $53,075
- GT Premium Convertible: $58,575
- Dark Horse: $66,075
- Dark Horse Premium Coupe: $71,070
- Dark Horse SC: $108,485
- Dark Horse SC Track Pack: $144,985
- Dark Horse SC Track Pack Special Edition: $175,965
- Raptor / Raptor R: $90,000 to $110,000
The automaker took a couple of years off before bringing the Charger to market to revamp it from head to toe. Its trim pricing is:
- R/T Coupe: $51,990
- R/T Sedan: $53,990
- R/T Plus Coupe: $56,985
- Scat Pack Coupe: $56,990
- R/T Plus Sedan: $58,985
- Scat Pack Sedan: $58,990
- Scat Pack Plus Coupe: $61,985
- Scat Pack Plus Sedan: $63,985
Performance and Power in the Mustang and Charger
The Mustang lineup features a standard 315-hp 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivering 350 lb-ft via a 10-speed automatic. Its optional 480-hp 5.0-liter V8 generates 415 lb-ft. The performance exhaust makes those numbers climb even more, to 486 horses and 418 lb-ft. With this engine, you also have the option of a six-speed manual.
But that's not all! The Dark Horse really pushes the envelope on the 5.0-liter up with 500 ponies and adds redesigned dampers. Finally, the Handling Package replaces the 'Stang's standard tires with Pirelli Trofeo RS tires for more track-focused driving.
The Dodge Charger now features a twin-turbocharged inline-six (aka, the "Hurricane"). In R/T form, the Sixpack S.O. delivers 420 horsepower; the Scat Pack and Sixpack H.O. raise that number to 550 hp. All engines mate with an eight-speed automatic and AWD, but the system includes a mode that switches your drivetrain to RWD.
Top Tech in the Mustang and Charger
The Mustang offers a dual-screen layout with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and digital gauge cluster. It runs the latest Sync 4 software with wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Also included are Alexa Voice integration, Ford Streaming, and the ability to receive over-the-air updates.
All Charger models come with a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Dodge's Uconnect 5 and a standard 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster that you can upgrade to 16.0 inches. Navigation, SiriusXM, Alexa, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are all included. Multiple Alpine audio systems are available, depending on trim choice.
Tech
| 2026 Ford Mustang |
2026 Dodge Charger |
| Dual-screen layout: 13.2-inch touchscreen and digital gauge cluster. |
12.3-inch touchscreen; 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster (upgradeable to 16.0 inches) |
| Sync 4 software |
Uconnect 5 software |
| Alexa Voice integration, Ford Streaming, and over-the-air updates. |
Multiple Alpine systems available |
Why Should You Pick the Ford Mustang?
Sure, the Charger is serious about performance, but the Mustang gives you more ways to enjoy it. If you're looking for a car that's more engaging behind the wheel, the Mustang is the one to beat! Contact Jarrett Scott today for a test drive!