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three Mustang GT350s. A red one and dark blue with a candy blue 2017 Ford Mustang in the foreground
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The Ford Mustang Beat the Dodge Challenger and the Chevy Camaro

These three American muscle cars have an iconic rivalry. There are large fanbases for the Ford Mustang, the Dodge Challenger and the Chevrolet Camaro. But which mid-size sports car dominates? In at least this one category, the Mustang beats out the Challenger and the Camaro. In fact––depending on how much dependability means to you––the Ford …
by Jordan Almond
Published on
2 min read

These three American muscle cars have an iconic rivalry. There are large fanbases for the Ford Mustang, the Dodge Challenger and the Chevrolet Camaro. But which mid-size sports car dominates?

In at least this one category, the Mustang beats out the Challenger and the Camaro. In fact––depending on how much dependability means to you––the Ford sports car won an important race. The J.D. Power 2020 US Vehicle Dependability Study named the Ford Mustang the highest-ranked mid-size sporty car.

Is the Ford Mustang reliable?

If we glance at the Consumer Reports reliability page for the Ford Mustang, reliability isn’t exactly rock solid. But, according to CR, the 2017 redesign for the Ford Mustang was a big deal. 2017 was the 50th anniversary for this iconic American muscle car. This meant a full spread of updates and improvements.

“Unlike many sporty cars and coupes, the Mustang can serve as a daily driver without severely compromising visibility, ease of access, or drivability. The front seats are superbly supportive, but they lack a power recline feature. As for the rear seats, there’s room for groceries but little else. It is, after all, a coupe…So how does the Mustang look as it turns 50? Better than most of us.”

Consumer Reports

The 2017 Ford Mustang

Additionally, US News and World Report gave positive reviews for the 2017 model year of this Ford sports car. The 2017 Mustang earned the number one spot for both the Affordable Sports Car and Affordable Convertible categories. That means US News deemed this one the best over the other two American muscle cars.

Grabber Blue ford mustang is a modified American
Ashton Stander’s Highly Modified Ford Mustang in Grabber Blue

This Mustang model year gleaned high praise. US News appreciates the 2017 Ford Mustang’s “potent” engine options, “athletic handling,” and “handsome interior.” US News also notes that the Mustang offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for the first time in 2017.

“The 2017 Ford Mustang ranks in the top half of the sports car class. It has precise handling, brawny engine performance, great safety scores, and below-average ownership costs.”

US News and World Report
The driver of a white Dodge Challenger performs a burnout
The driver of a Dodge Challenger performs a burnout | HAIDAR MOHAMMED ALI/AFP via Getty Images

J.D. Power dependability award

Ford edged its way into J.D. Power’s top 10 most dependable brands. According to this 2020 US vehicle dependability study, both the 2017 Ford Mustang and the 2017 Ford F-150(which tied with the 2017 Toyota Tundra) are class leaders for dependability. This is a prestigious award for the Mustang 2017 model year. Both the Dodge Challenger and the Chevrolet Camaro model years fell behind.

J.D. Power‘s review of the 2017 model year of the Ford Mustang two-door coupe Shelby GT350 V8 is very positive. Though the Chevy midsize sports car is ranked #1 overall, the 2017 Mustang reigns supreme in terms of dependability. So if you’re seeking a powerful punch plus reliability, the 2017 Mustang is on your radar as a top choice. J.D. Power rated the Ford sports car “great” for quality & reliability, driving experience, resale value, and dealership experience.

It may be much more affordable to buy a three year old mustang, like this candy blue ford gt350 Shelby from 2017. This muscle car competes with others like the Chevy Camaro and Dodge Challenger
2017 Mustang GT350 Shelby | Ford

Is the Mustang better than the Challenger and the Camaro?

A red Camaro with a black hood parked on pristine concrete flooring.
Chevy Camaro | Chevrolet

These three American sports cars will most likely always be locked in battle for the top spot in their class. In 2017, the Ford Mustang is the class leader for dependability––according to the J.D. Power 2020 US Vehicle Dependability Study. The Ford Mustang’s 2017 model year is considered by the pros to be a reliable used car. In terms of dependability, the 2017 Mustang beats the Dodge Challenger and the Chevy Camaro.

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Section Editor - Pickup Trucks

Jordan Almond

Jordan Almond grew up Texan, hauling goosenecks and bumper pulls with her family’s dually. A former competitive equestrian, her experience driving trucks and towing horse trailers has provided a foundation for her pickup coverage and former weekly Toyota Tacoma installation. Jordan now serves as our Trucks, SUVs, & Crossovers Section Editor.

Jordan has a Bachelor’s in Rhetoric and Writing from the University of North Texas, and she wrote short fiction and poetry until joining MotorBiscuit in 2020. A lifelong adventurer, she can be found crafting pieces on RVs, camper vans, and overland conversions, although her library of automotive media covers a wide range of topics. Jordan credits motherhood and family life (chasing two boys) for providing her with more personal insights on new car reviews and informative pieces on consumer favorites.