The Dodge Challenger has a cult following that it has earned. This sports sedan has been around since 1969 and it’s held true to its classic design since then. But, it’s not without competition. The Challenger and the new Ford Mustang both offer powerful engines, incredible track times, and heart-pounding acceleration. These models are two of the most iconic American muscle cars. If you’re trying to decide between a 2022 Dodge Challenger and a 2022 Ford Mustang, read on for four reasons why the Challenger comes out on top.

The new Dodge Challenger has better acceleration than the Ford Mustang

Neither of these sports cars is a slouch, but only one can be the fastest. Entry-level models are similar in power and speed. The base 2022 Dodge Challenger offers 303 horsepower, while the 2022 Ford Mustang makes 310 horsepower. However, for the best acceleration, you’ll want to look up the line. 

The top Challenger makes 797 horsepower from a 6.2-liter V8 engine. The 2022 Challenger Super Stock has a 0-60 time of just 3.25 seconds. In comparison, the top Mustang, the Shelby GT500, makes 760 horsepower from a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine. The 2022 Mustang GT500 has a 0-60 time of 3.3 seconds—just a hair less than the Challenger.

The 2022 Dodge Challenger has a better interior than the 2022 Ford Mustang

Let’s be real—power isn’t everything. (Gasp.) If you’ll be driving your muscle car on more than just track days, you’ll want something that keeps you comfortable and connected. The 2022 Dodge Challenger offers more standard features than the 2022 Ford Mustang. Standard features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7.0-inch touchscreen, and a 6-speaker sound system.

The base Ford Mustang is relatively bare inside. You can get a 2022 Mustang with all the bells and whistles, but you’ll need to upgrade to a higher trim level than you would in the Challenger.

The newest Challenger is more comfortable to drive than the new Ford Mustang

The 2022 Dodge Challenger is large and in charge in more ways than one. It offers better seat comfort and interior space than the 2022 Ford Mustang. Dodge’s muscle car is more supportive and can actually fit real adults inside. 

The Dodge Challenger is the largest in its class, with big, comfortable seats for the driver and all of its passengers. In comparison, the Ford Mustang is smaller and snugger, and the seating can feel cramped. This may not be an issue for a short drive, but if you’re planning a cross-country trip with a Mustang, you’ll start to feel it.

The 2022 Dodge Challenger is more reliable than the 2022 Ford Mustang

According to U.S. News, the 2022 Dodge Challenger offers better predicted reliability ratings than many other sports sedans. It’s one of the most reliable muscle cars, scoring an 88 out of 100. The 2022 Ford Mustang hasn’t received a reliability rating yet, but it doesn’t have a great reputation. This isn’t the only category where the Challenger kills the competition.

Both the 2022 Dodge Challenger and the 2022 Ford Mustang are covered by a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a three-year/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty.

With all this in mind: choose the Challenger over the Mustang

The 2022 Ford Mustang has some cool flash and flair, but if you’re looking for power with attitude, you can’t do better than the 2022 Dodge Challenger. This muscle car doesn’t compromise on performance with some wimpy four-cylinder—it comes out the gate screaming with a V6 engine.

There’s one more reason to choose the Challenger—this iconic muscle car will be discontinued by 2024. Production has largely stopped for this model, so if you want one, get it now.

Note that specific U.S. News scores are changing, but the information in this article was accurate at the time of writing.