When perusing the library of used muscle cars, two names play a significant role among later models: the Chevrolet Camaro and the Ford Mustang. However, a new model might not be in the cards for fans who want a budget-friendly blacktop bully. Still, both popular nameplates have been in contemporary competition since the retro fifth-generation Camaro rolled off the line in 2010. So, how do the 2010 Camaro SS and Mustang GT fare in a V8-powered showdown?

Is the 2010 Camaro SS an LS3?

The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS packs a 426-horsepower 6.2L LS3 as its standard V8 engine option. However, the fifth-generation Camaro SS with the six-speed automatic transmission had a 400-horsepower L99 engine instead. 

Still, GM Authority reports that the L99 is a variant of the small-block LS3 engine. However, while the L99 is a derivative of the LS3, the L99 features cylinder deactivation, unlike the LS3. Of course, fans who want to row their own gears will enjoy the more powerful LS3 and six-speed manual transmission. 

Alternatively, the pre-Coyote 2010 Ford Mustang GT features a SOHC 4.6L V8, producing 315 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. That’s a sizable disparity compared to the 2010 Camaro SS, and the power gulf is evident in the models’ acceleration figures. Fortunately, the Mustang GT also offers a manual transmission, albeit a five-speed instead of the Camaro’s six-speed.   

How fast is the 2010 Ford Mustang GT?

The 2010 Ford Mustang GT manages a sprint to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, 0.1 seconds slower than the similarly potent 2008 Ford Mustang Bullitt. Further, the 2010 pony car’s 0 to 60 mph run will match one of its closest competitors, the 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T. 

However, the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS, with its surplus of V8 power, outsprints both of its closest competitors. Impressively, the Camaro will manage a dash to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds with the manual and 4.6 with the automatic gearbox. 

How much is a 2010 Camaro V8 worth?

A 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS has a fair value of around $14,591 for the V8-powered 1SS Coupe. As a result, the 1SS is closely comparable with the facelifted Mustang GT. However, KBB says a posher 2SS package bumps the price to around $15,132.

That said, it’s also important to note that these values reflect models with average mileages of over 100,000. Lower mileage models will likely cost more. Additionally, drop-top variants of the Camaro and the Mustang will demand more of a premium. 

Which is the better used muscle car, the 2010 Camaro SS or the Ford Mustang GT?

On paper, the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS is a much more capable used muscle car. In fact, the better rival for the Camaro SS is the heavier, pricier Dodge Challenger SRT8. However, the Mustang GT is woefully underpowered and slower than the similarly-priced Chevy.

Follow MotorBiscuit on your favorite social media sites for the latest Camaro and Mustang content!