Ford Mustang vs. Chevy Camaro: Which $25,000 Used Muscle Car Wins?
Buying a used muscle car can be wise. You’ll get thrilling performance and driving dynamics without the hefty price tag of a new model. Two of the most popular are the Ford Mustang and the Chevy Camaro. Consider these 5-year-old models, and you’re in for a tight race. Both deliver muscle car vibes for roughly $25,000. Here’s a 2018 Ford Mustang vs. 2018 Chevy Camaro comparison to help you decide.
| 2018 Ford Mustang | 2018 Chevy Camaro | |
| Average Used Price | $25,700 | $25,900 |
| Base Engine | 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-4 | 2.0-liter turbo inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 310 hp + 350 lb-ft | 275 hp + 295 lb-ft |
| Transmission + Drivetrain | 6-speed manual, optional 10-speed automatic, RWD | 6-speed manual, optional 8-speed paddle shift automatic, RWD |
| 0–60 Acceleration + Top Speed | 5.1 seconds + 154 mph | 5.4 seconds + 175 mph |
| Fuel efficiency | 21/31 mpg city/hwy | 20/30 mpg city/hwy |
| NHTSA Safety Rating | 5 stars | 5 stars |
These Mustang and Camaro model years also have more potent engine options, but for this $25,000 comparison, we’re pitting the two four-cylinder versions.
2018 Mustang pros and cons
Pros:
The 2018 Ford Mustang brings everything you’d expect in acceleration and agile handling. It’s also pretty safe, earning an NHTSA five-star rating.
Cons:
As expected for a pony car, the 2018 Mustang has cramped back seats. It also has below-average predicted reliability.
2018 Camaro pros and cons
Pros:
The 2018 Chevy Camaro boasts engine options that command respect. It also has impressively balanced handling and a user-friendly infotainment system.
Cons:
However, like its rival, the 2018 Camaro has confining back seats and very little trunk space.
Explore these other categories to see which used muscle car comes out ahead.
2018 Ford Mustang vs. 2018 Chevy Camaro: Driving and performance
The 2018 Ford Mustang brought a 10-speed automatic transmission as an option, which, as Car and Driver cited, made it a “quicker pony.” On paper and in every other aspect, the Mustang and Camaro are evenly matched. Both have rev-matching technology with their manual transmissions, multiple manually selectable drive modes, and adjustable exhausts. They’re both fast, with the Mustang quicker off the line and the Camaro inching ahead in top-speed trials.
2018 Ford Mustang vs. 2018 Chevy Camaro: Interior and tech
The 2018 Mustang base model has a 4.2-inch center display screen, Bluetooth capability, two USB ports, and a six-speaker sound system.
The standard 2018 Camaro has Chevy’s MyLink infotainment system and a 7.0-inch touchscreen. It also has a six-speaker stereo, Bluetooth, and 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity.
Both models come with standard smart-device integration, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2018 Ford Mustang vs. 2cobo018 Chevy Camaro: Trim levels and features
The 2018 Ford Mustang offers various trims, engine variations, and coupe or convertible body styles. Trims include EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, and GT Premium. Standard features include 17-inch wheels, manually adjustable cloth-upholstered seats, keyless entry and ignition, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
The 2018 Chevy Camaro brings a broad selection of trims, engine sizes, transmissions, and coupe or convertible styles. Trims include 1LS, 1LT, 2LT, 1SS, 2SS and ZL1. The standard Camaro comes with LED daytime running lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a limited-slip differential with the manual transmission.
Which used muscle car is the right fit for you?
Ultimately, only you can decide which features, pros, and cons of these two used muscle cars will sway your decision. Regardless of which used car you choose, obtain a vehicle history report and have a trusted mechanic perform an inspection to uncover potential problems before purchasing. Also, prices may vary depending on trim level, mileage, overall condition, and location. But chances are, if you’re considering a 2018 Ford Mustang and a 2018 Chevy Camaro, neither will disappoint.
