2026 Dodge Charger R/T vs. Ford Mustang GT: Modern Muscle Car Comparison

The 2026 Dodge Charger R/T and the 2026 Ford Mustang GT both come from a well-known muscle car nameplate, and cars that draw attention wherever they go. At Cable Dahmer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Kansas City, we want to provide you with helpful information if you're comparing these two vehicles. This comparison covers what separates these two trims and what each one does better. If you would like to schedule a time to see the new Dodge Charger or take a test drive, contact us to get started.

Engine and Power Output

The Charger R/T uses Dodge's new 3.0L SIXPACK SO Twin-Turbo Straight-Six engine, producing 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque. The Mustang GT includes a 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 generating 480 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. On peak horsepower, the Mustang GT holds the edge. On torque, the Charger R/T delivers more, which translates to stronger low-end pull and a more assertive response coming off a stop or accelerating through mid-range speeds.

Dodge targets a 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds and a 12.9-second quarter mile for the Charger R/T. Ford does not publish an official 0-60 time for the Mustang GT, but estimates put it around 3.9 - 4.3 seconds with the 10-speed automatic. You can estimate an additional 0.5 seconds to those times for the 6-speed manual. Both are fast by any reasonable measure, and the real-world performance gap between them is narrower than the horsepower numbers alone suggest.

What the Mustang GT brings to the engine comparison is a naturally aspirated V8 with a mechanical character that many performance car buyers specifically seek out. What the Charger R/T brings is a modern forced-induction setup with more torque and an AWD advantage that carries through the entire driving experience.

Body Style and Passenger Space

2026 Dodge Charger R/T

2026 Ford Mustang GT

The Charger R/T is available in both two-door and four-door configurations. Both body styles use the same engine and powertrain. The four-door model adds rear-seat access without changing the car's performance character or exterior presence. Both versions seat five passengers.

The Mustang GT is available only as a fastback coupe at this trim level, seating four. Its rear seats are functional but tight, and they are better suited for occasional use than for regular adult passengers.

If you routinely carry passengers or want the option of a four-door without moving down to a less powerful engine, the Charger R/T is the only vehicle in this comparison that gives you that choice. At approximately 206.6 inches in overall length compared to the Mustang GT's 189.4 inches, it occupies a different size category and offers meaningfully more cabin space as a result. For those looking for a fun, yet practical muscle car, the four-door Dodge Charger is the clear winner between the two.

Interior Comparison

2026 Dodge Charger R/T Interior

2026 Ford Mustang GT Interior

Safety Features

Both cars arrive with a solid standard safety suite. The Charger R/T includes Drowsy Driver Detection as a standard feature and offers the option for a 360-degree Surround View Camera. The Mustang GT includes rear parking sensors as standard and pairs well with the available Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology package.

Trim-Level Pricing

*MSRP subject to change. Dealer sets the final price.

The Mustang GT starts at a lower price point than the Charger R/T. The Charger R/T, however, includes standard AWD, which is not available on the Mustang GT at any configuration or price. The R/T Plus adds Sport Suspension, LED headlights with a DRL Signature Light Bar, and 20-inch Diamond Cut Baltic wheels, with optional upgrades available for the Alpine audio package and a Fixed Panoramic Glass Roof.

New Charger R/T purchases at Cable Dahmer Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Kansas City include a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which is a substantial ownership benefit worth factoring into any pricing comparison.