2011 Dodge Challenger vs. Its Competition

By Bengt Halvorson

Bengt Halvorson

Deputy Editor BIO

Bengt Halvorson is Deputy Editor of High Gear Media's portfolio of car sites, overseeing the production of reviews, evaluating vehicles firsthand... More

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Jun 11, 2011

With all three Detroit automakers now offering different models, the muscle-car wars are back on—at least for a few more years.

Horsepower ratings continue to rise a each year these cars seem to get not only more powerful but more practical and livable.

Among the three (Camaro, Mustang, and Challenger), the Dodge is arguably the most comfortable inside, thanks to a roomier, airier feel from the front seats as well as a very nicely damped, forgiving ride.

And the SRT8 adds just enough extras for true enthusiasts to spot the difference, but with its bold nose and strong bodylines, there's no mistaking a Challenger for any other car.

However the tradeoff is that the Challenger feels neither as responsive and nimble as the Mustang nor as downright athletic as the Camaro.

Each of the base V-6 models have received upgrades in recent years, and the new 305-hp 3.6-liter should now have satisfying performance for all but those who really must have a V-8.

At the top of the range, the Camaro SS and Mustang GT match up nicely with the Challenger SRT8, but the powerful Shelby GT500 Mustang holds a huge horsepower advantage over the SRT8.

And each of the Challenger models spans a wide price range, from about $25k for a base SE to nearly $50k for a loaded SR8.

One other new model to consider is the Hyundai Genesis Coupe, an all-new rear-wheel-drive, track-capable coupe that's a tough rival for the V-6 Mustang and Camaro, if not the Challenger itself.