2026 Dodge Charger vs. 2025 Ford Mustang

The muscle car war has entered a new phase. With the Camaro gone, only two titans remain: the 2026 Dodge Charger and the 2025 Ford Mustang. But this isn't the rivalry of the 1960s. Dodge has reinvented the game with twin-turbo capability and electric fury, while Ford has doubled down on traditional naturally aspirated V8s.

If you are in Gulfport cross-shopping these two legends, the choice comes down to one question: Do you want the nostalgia of the past, or the performance of the future?

The Matchup: Sixpack vs. Dark Horse

For the purists who demand gas power, the closest battle is between the Dodge Charger Sixpack H.O. and the Ford Mustang Dark Horse.

Power & Torque

Dodge Charger Sixpack H.O.: The new 3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-6 produces 550 horsepower and 531 lb-ft of torque.

Ford Mustang Dark Horse: The 5.0L Coyote V8 tops out at 500 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque.

Winner: Dodge. The twin turbos generate significantly more torque (over 100 lb-ft more!) lower in the RPM range, giving you immediate launch power that the Mustang’s naturally aspirated V8 can’t match without revving high.

Drivetrain & Handling

Dodge: Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on all trims. This is a game-changer for daily drivability in Gulfport’s rainy weather.

Ford: Strictly Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD). While fun on a dry track, it can be a handful on wet pavement.

Winner: Dodge for real-world usability; Mustang for drift purists (though the Charger has a "Drift Mode" too).

Practicality

Dodge: Available as a 2-door coupe or 4-door sedan (with a hatchback rear). It offers class-leading cargo space (up to 38 cu. ft. with seats down).

Ford: Only available as a 2-door coupe with a traditional small trunk.

Winner: Dodge. You can actually fit a family and groceries in the Charger.

Charger Daytona Scat Pack vs. Mustang GT

Here is where Dodge leaves Ford in the dust. Ford currently has no answer for the Charger Daytona Scat Pack EV.

0-60 MPH: The Daytona hits 60 mph in 3.3 seconds. The Mustang GT takes roughly 4.2 seconds.

Technology: The Charger features 400V architecture and the "Fratzonic" exhaust. The Mustang relies on legacy tech.

Head-to-Head Spec Table

Why the Charger Wins in Gulfport

The Mustang is a fantastic tribute to the past. But the 2026 Dodge Charger is superior engineering for the present. With standard AWD, more horsepower, and the option for a 4-door configuration, it’s the only muscle car that can truly serve as your daily driver on the Gulf Coast.

Experience the difference yourself.