The Ford Mustang is the last muscle car standing, and it’s set to reign supreme in the muscle car world for the rest of the decade. While competitors like the Dodge Charger, Challenger, and Chevy Camaro have faded away, the Mustang continues to dominate with Ford’s commitment to V-8 engines.
In the past, the Charger and Challenger were top-selling models, but they were discontinued after the 2023 model year due to the federal government’s regulations on fuel economy standards. Dodge’s lineup of V-8 engines meant they couldn’t comply with the regulations, leading to the demise of the Mopar muscle cars.
Chevy also discontinued the Camaro after the 2024 model year due to declining sales. The iconic pony car had seen a significant drop in sales, forcing Chevy to send it to the muscle car graveyard. This left the Mustang as the only American muscle car being produced and the king of the streets for 2025 and beyond.
Ford’s commitment to the Mustang’s future is evident in their plans for the Mustang Dark Horse, a top-of-the-line performance model. The Dark Horse features a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter Coyote V-8 engine that delivers an impressive 500 horsepower, showcasing Ford’s dedication to V-8 power in the Mustang lineup.
Looking ahead, Ford has even grander plans for the Mustang, with the introduction of the 2025 Mustang GTD, an 800-horsepower supercar version designed for racing. While the GTD may be a street-legal racing machine, its performance highlights will trickle down to other Mustang models, ensuring that the Mustang remains at the forefront of American muscle cars.
While potential challengers like the Dodge Charger Daytona SIXPACK and the Camaro EV may emerge, the Mustang’s traditional muscle car traits and Ford’s commitment to V-8 engines position it as the frontrunner in the muscle car segment for the foreseeable future. With a long-standing legacy and a dedicated fan base, the Mustang is poised to hold off the competition and continue its reign as the most important muscle car of the decade.
