The muscle car rivalry is alive and well in 2026, even if the formula has changed. The Ford Mustang offers buyers everything from a turbocharged four-cylinder to a naturally aspirated V8, while the all-new Dodge Charger takes a different approach with twin-turbo inline-six power and standard all-wheel drive. If you're deciding between these two icons, here's how they compare.
Key Takeaways:
- The Mustang adds a retro-inspired FX Package that celebrates the Fox-body era.
- As of July 2026, the highly anticipated Mustang Raptor has yet to arrive.
- Dodge replaces the Charger's legendary Hemi V8 with a twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six.
Upgrades and Pricing for the 2026 Ford Mustang and Dodge Charger
Ford introduces the new FX Package to the Mustang GT Premium. It honors the Fox-body era, adding white wheels, vintage-inspired exterior badges, white grille accents, and clear taillamps. Buyers who pair it with the Performance Package get Oxford White fan-style wheels (as you may remember from classic Mustang Cobras), while the standard FX Package includes white split five-spoke wheels.
The retro theme continues inside with leather sport seats featuring black-and-white plaid inserts, blue and silver contrast stitching, and carbon-fiber trim borrowed from the Dark Horse. Ford also refreshes the color palette by introducing Adriatic Blue Metallic and bringing back Orange Fury.
Mustang trim 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: $106,490
- Dark Horse SC Track Pack: $139,990
- Dark Horse SC Track Pack Special Edition: $170,970
- Mustang Raptor/Raptor R (estimated): $90,000-$110,000
The Charger returns on an entirely new platform with fresh styling, new tech, and an all-new powertrain lineup. Its current 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
Mustang vs. Charger Performance Comparison
The Ford EcoBoost model uses a 315-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder producing 350 lb-ft through a 10-speed automatic. Drivers longing for classic V8 performance can choose the 480-hp 5.0-liter Coyote, cranking out 415 lb-ft. Adding the active exhaust system raises output to 486 horsepower and 418 lb-ft while keeping the six-speed manual transmission.
The Dark Horse, however, outdoes them all, thanks to a 500-hp naturally aspirated V8 paired with a MagneRide adaptive suspension. Buyers can also add the Handling Package, which includes Pirelli Trofeo RS tires designed for maximum grip.
Dodge retired the Charger's Hemi V8 in favor of the twin-turbo "Hurricane" inline-six. The R/T produces 420 horsepower, while Scat Pack and Sixpack H.O. models raise that figure to 550 horsepower. Every Charger mates with an eight-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive, but a front-axle disconnect system allows the car to send power exclusively to the rear wheels when conditions call for a more traditional experience.
Powertrains
| 2026 Ford Mustang |
2026 Dodge Charger |
| 2.3L turbo four-cylinder or 5.0L V8 |
Twin-turbo "Hurricane" inline-6 |
| Standard 10-speed automatic or optional 6-speed manual transmission |
8-speed automatic transmission |
| RWD |
AWD with RWD disconnect |
Which Modern Muscle Car Comes Out Ahead?
The Mustang stays true to its heritage with an available naturally aspirated V8 and the option of a six-speed manual, making it the clear choice for drivers who want a traditional muscle car experience. If you'd like to see it firsthand, we'd love to show it to you. Stop by today at Banner Ford of Mandeville today to get behind the wheel!