2014 Ford Mustang vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

So far, this decade has looked a bit like the late-1960s muscle-car era all over again--at least if you look at these cars from a distance.

Yet from the driver's seat, each of these models are quite modern, comfortable, and capable.

The 2014 Ford Mustang remains in direct rivalry with the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger, yet while they have those muscle-car roots, they're each very different vehicles.

The V-8 Mustang GT feels like a serious performance car now, and it's just as quick as the Chevrolet Camaro SS, and we like its rev-happy feel a little better.

On the other hand, the Chevrolet Camaro is almost cartoonish, and it makes some seemingly severe sacrifices in seating comfort and cabin layout for its chunky good looks.

You might feel that you sit 'on' (rather than 'in') the Camaro, and the headroom is so limited.

The Dodge Challenger models, on the other hand, are a full size larger and feel much heavier--although they do deliver satisfying Hemi V-8 performance.

Looking at the Mustang V-6 separately, it's a strong competitor to models like the Hyundai Genesis Coupe and Nissan 370Z.

The Z is lighter, more nimble and more like an all-out sports car than the Mustang.

Also, last year the Hyundai Genesis Coupe was refreshed, with stronger new direct-injection engines.

It still lacks the Z's sharp-edged responsiveness, but it's nimble and track-worthy.