The 2023 Ford Mustang and Chevy Camaro are two of the great all-American rivals. These pony cars have been turning up the heat with their rip-roaring V8 engines for generations. Because they’ve always been such close competitors, it can be tough to choose the best option! But our comparison guide is here to clear up any confusion.
Key Takeaways
- Choose the Mustang to spend less on more power!
- You can increase any Mustang model’s speed or agility with available performance packages!
- Inside, the Mustang offers a slightly bigger cargo hold and roomier front seats.
- Although the Mustang comes standard with more power, the Camaro’s base model delivers the (slightly) lower MSRP.
Standard Power: 2023 Ford Mustang
Ford’s famous pony car gives you more speed from its entry-level EcoBoost trim models! Their turbocharged powertrains tear up the pavement with 310 horses. Naturally, if you crave classic V8 performance, you can turn to the Mustang GT models. They provide 450 horses and that telltale V8 roar.
The Mustang offers two engine options:
- Turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine (310 horsepower, 350 lb-ft of torque)
- 5.0L V8 (450 hp, 410 lb-ft)
- Six-speed manual transmission
- Optional 10-speed automatic
The Camaro’s turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with 275 horses, isn’t as impressive. But you can always climb the Camaro’s trim levels for more power. By spending extra cash to get the 6.2-liter V8, you can compete with the Mustang’s V8.
Unlike the Mustang, the Camaro offers a high-performance trim model, the ZL1, which gives you a taste of high-end performance with its supercharged V8 (and a price tag to match).
- Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (275 hp, 295 lb-ft)
- 3.6L V6 (335 hp, 284 lb-ft)
- 6.2L V8 (455 hp, 455 lb-ft)
- Supercharged 6.2L V8 (650 hp, 650 lb-ft)
- Six-speed manual transmission
- Optional 10-speed automatic
Performance Upgrades: 2023 Ford Mustang
We’re big fans of the fact that you can make either Mustang powertrain go a little faster. The 2.3L High Performance Package, available for Mustangs with the EcoBoost engine, increases output to 332 horsepower! The package also creates a swifter performance, with performance tires, a sport-tuned suspension, and upgraded brakes and engine cooling, among other upgrades.
For Mustang GT drivers, there’s the GT Performance package. It transforms your ride with performance tires, Brembo brakes, a sport-tuned suspension, a Torsen limited-slip differential, and upgraded engine cooling!
The Camaro offers performance packages for all of its trim models, but really reserves the good stuff for its more expensive models. The entry-level 1LT, 2LT, and 3LT trims are available with the Heavy-Duty Cooling and Brake package, which includes Brembo brakes and engine cooling upgrades.
The more expensive SS models are available with the SS 1LE Track Performance package, which treats you to the high-performance ZL1 upgrades and a head-up display.
Available for the ZL1 only, the ZL1 1LE Extreme Performance package contributes to this model’s breathtaking speed with an upgraded suspension, wider tires, a carbon-fiber spoiler, and aerodynamic bodywork.
Cabin Space and Comfort: 2023 Ford Mustang
Not only does the Mustang give you more front-seat legroom and shoulder room, but it’s also known for its substantial bigger cargo hold! Behind the rear seats, this hatchback serves up 13.5 cubic feet for your belongings. You won’t be able to fit nearly as much in the Camaro cargo hold, which only offers 9.1 cubes.
Besides its roomier ride, the Mustang also treats you a better road trip. The Mustang’s front seats deliver endless comfort, thanks to their supportive contours and generous cushioning. Frankly, the Camaro’s front seats could use a little extra cushioning in their seat bottoms! That said, both pony cars are surprisingly supple and smooth considering their performance aspirations.
Price: 2023 Chevy Camaro
The one thing the 2023 Camaro can do is come in with a lower price tag. Chevy’s pony car starts at $26,100. However, the 2023 Mustang isn’t too much more expensive, with an MSRP of $27,770.
Your New Ride
The Chevy Camaro might be able to undercut the Mustang’s price a little bit, but it’s the Mustang that will change your daily drive for the better. When you select Ford’s iconic pony car, you can expect gushing power, insane agility, and surprising comfort!