Despite refreshed offerings from Ford as of last year, the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro comes out swinging for 2012 with the new ZL1, an up-rated V-6 that packs as much economy as it does power, and a still-strong SS model.
Nonetheless, the 2012 Ford Mustang, with the 302 Boss, Laguna Seca, and equally thrifty/fun V-6 models is a legitimate, worthwhile alternative.
The Mustang also has the advantage when it comes to practicality, being roomier inside, with a larger trunk and more outward visibility.
The Mustang is also lighter, and therefore feels a bit nimbler than the bulky Camaro.
The Challenger is bigger than both, but its HEMI-soundtracked top models and exceptional ride quality might make it a good choice.
For those willing to look to import marques, the Nissan 370Z is an enticing alternative to either muscle car, giving up the back seat for yet more nimble handling while still packing a strong performance punch.
Those looking to reserve their budgets might find an answer in the Hyundai Genesis Coupe.
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 2012 Chevrolet CamaroBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Dodge ChallengerBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Ford MustangBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Hyundai Genesis CoupeBrowse Used Listings |  2012 Nissan 370ZBrowse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | ||||
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The 2012 Chevy Camaro isn't practical, but it's stunning to look at and offers scorching performance--even without the ZL1 package. |
A comfortable touring coupe most of the time, the retro-themed 2012 Dodge Challenger can turn in blistering musclecar performance when it's got a HEMI. |
The 2012 Ford Mustang doles out all the tire-smoking pony-car thrills, but it's also grown to become quite a sophisticated car. |
The 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe is one of the best performance-car values, with several models fitting the needs of either daily commuters of track-day enthusiasts. |
Performance per dollar, the 2012 Nissan 370Z is a bargain, and it's quick enough in absolute terms to reach toward the domain of much more expensive sports cars. |
| MSRP From | ||||
| $23,280 | $25,195 | $22,310 | $22,250 | $32,280 |
| Gas Mileage | ||||
| 14 MPG City / 29 MPG Hwy | 14 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy | 15 MPG City / 29 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 30 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 26 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | ||||
| Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Gas V6 | Turbocharged Gas I4 | Gas V6 |
| EPA Class | ||||
| Compact | Midsize | Compact | Subcompact | Two-Seater |
| Style Name | ||||
| 2-Door Coupe 1LS | 2-Door Coupe Rallye Redline | 2-Door Coupe V6 | 2-Door I4 2.0T Manual | 2-Door Coupe Manual |
| Drivetrain | ||||
| Rear wheel drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel Drive | Rear Wheel drive | Rear Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 2 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||||
| Coupe | 2 Door Coupe | 2 Door Coupe | 2 Door Coupe | 2 Door Coupe |
| Transmission | ||||
| Manual | Automatic | Manual | Manual | Manual w/OD |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
| 2012 Chevrolet Camaro vs. 2012 Dodge Challenger | 2012 Chevrolet Camaro vs. 2012 Ford Mustang | 2012 Chevrolet Camaro vs. 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe | 2012 Chevrolet Camaro vs. 2012 Nissan 370Z | |
