Matt Bowers Ford · Metairie, Louisiana
Mustang vs. Charger.
Find the drive that moves you.
Compare the 2026 Ford Mustang and Dodge Charger for engine character, transmission and everyday fit. Explore available Mustangs in Metairie, near New Orleans and Kenner.
Inventory may include multiple model years. Confirm the engine, transmission, equipment and availability of the vehicle you choose.
Start with what you want from the drive.
A V8 or a manual on your list?
Explore Mustang GT and 5.0L Dark Horse configurations. Try the seating position, controls and transmission you plan to live with before choosing your car.
More doors or electric power?
Charger offers different body and powertrain choices. Compare a specific SIXPACK gas model or Daytona EV, then consider passenger access and the ownership routine that suits you.
2026 Mustang vs. Charger at a glance
| Compare | Ford Mustang | Dodge Charger |
|---|---|---|
| Gas engine choices | 2.3L EcoBoost; 5.0L V8 in GT and Dark Horse | 3.0L twin-turbo SIXPACK inline-six in R/T and Scat Pack |
| Published gas horsepower* | EcoBoost: 315 hp; GT: 480 hp, or 486 hp with available active exhaust; Dark Horse: 500 hp | R/T: 420 hp; Scat Pack: 550 hp |
| Manual choice | 6-speed manual in GT and Dark Horse; automatic options vary by model | Scat Pack SIXPACK uses an 8-speed automatic |
| Body choices | Two-door fastback; convertible on select models | Two-door or four-door configurations |
| Electric distinction | This page covers Mustang gas models; Mustang Mach-E is a separate model | Charger Daytona uses electric power; separate from SIXPACK gas models |
*Manufacturer-rated engine output, not a prediction of acceleration. Ford horsepower figures shown are based on 93-octane fuel; results may vary. Ratings apply to the named engines and equipment. Charger Daytona electric output is not included in the gas horsepower row. Review the window sticker and manufacturer specifications for the exact vehicle.
Choose the character, then compare the car.
Mustang gives you a choice between EcoBoost turbo power and a naturally aspirated V8 in GT or 5.0L Dark Horse. The gas-powered Charger SIXPACK uses a twin-turbo inline-six, while Charger Daytona takes an electric approach.
Those choices feel different from the driver's seat. Compare response, sound, ride and controls on a normal test drive. Match the actual trim, transmission and installed packages instead of comparing one model's headline number with another model's base configuration.
Want to shift for yourself?
Mustang GT and 5.0L Dark Horse offer a 6-speed manual, while EcoBoost uses a 10-speed automatic. Ford also offers a 10-speed automatic in GT and 5.0L Dark Horse. The Charger SIXPACK Scat Pack uses an 8-speed automatic.
If a manual is essential, tell us before your visit so we can confirm a suitable Mustang is available. Try the clutch, shifter and driving position together. If an automatic is your preference, compare its response during the kind of driving you do most.
Ask About a Mustang ConfigurationTwo doors, four doors or open air?
Mustang fastback or convertible
Select Mustang models offer a convertible for shoppers who want open-air driving. Bring your usual bags and check rear-seat access and usable luggage room in the body style you prefer.
Charger two-door or four-door
The newer Charger comes in both configurations. If rear passengers are a priority, compare access and seating in person rather than relying on a badge or a photo.
For Metairie errands, New Orleans commutes and weekend trips, check parking visibility, cabin comfort and the controls you will use every day. Confirm the features on the actual car before deciding.
Find your kind of Mustang.
EcoBoost
Start with the turbocharged engine and automatic transmission. Compare available comfort, appearance and handling equipment on the actual vehicle.
GT
Explore V8 character with a manual or available automatic. Ask about the installed exhaust and performance packages rather than assuming every GT is equipped alike.
5.0L Dark Horse
Consider its performance focus alongside your everyday needs. Compare the actual equipment, transmission and availability; specialty Dark Horse SC and GTD are outside this overview.
A better experience before, during & after the sale.
Before your visit
Tell us your priorities. Request equipment details, photos or a walkaround video and confirm the Mustang is available before you make the trip.
When you buy
Compare the actual vehicle, take a test drive and ask about pricing, your trade and financing. Take time to understand the equipment and paperwork. Financing is subject to credit approval.
Through ownership
Our Metairie Ford service team can help with maintenance and ownership questions. Qualifying vehicles include our Lifetime Powertrain Warranty, subject to its terms and required maintenance.
Lifetime Powertrain Warranty: Applies to qualifying vehicles for as long as the original purchaser owns the vehicle. Eligibility, coverage, limitations and exclusions apply. Commercial-use vehicles are excluded. All lube, oil and filter changes must be performed at a Matt Bowers dealership or service center to maintain coverage. See dealer for actual warranty terms.
Mustang vs. Charger FAQs
Is the new Dodge Charger only electric?
No. For the 2026 U.S. lineup, Charger R/T and Scat Pack offer gas-powered SIXPACK engines. Charger Daytona is electric. Match the exact powertrain and trim before comparing performance, ownership costs or equipment.
Can I get a V8 and manual transmission in a Mustang?
Yes. The 2026 Mustang GT and 5.0L Dark Horse offer a 6-speed manual. Automatic choices also exist, depending on model. Ask us to confirm the transmission and installed equipment on the Mustang you want to drive.
How much horsepower does the 2026 Mustang GT make?
Ford rates the GT at 480 horsepower, or 486 horsepower with the available active valve performance exhaust. These ratings are based on 93-octane fuel. Output depends on the engine and equipment; results may vary.
Does Mustang offer a convertible?
Yes. Convertible body styles are offered on select 2026 Mustang models. Confirm the trim and configuration in current inventory. Compare roof operation, rear-seat access and luggage space in person.
Is the 2026 Charger a two-door or four-door car?
Dodge offers the 2026 Charger in both two-door and four-door configurations. That makes door count and rear-seat access useful starting points when comparing it with a two-door Mustang.
Which car is better for everyday driving?
Use a test drive to compare the things you notice every day: seating position, ride, visibility, parking, controls, passenger access and room for your regular bags. Check insurance and ownership costs for the exact vehicle. A peak horsepower figure cannot answer those questions for you.
What maintenance does the Lifetime Powertrain Warranty require?
All lube, oil and filter changes must be performed at a Matt Bowers dealership or service center to maintain coverage. Eligibility, coverage terms, limitations and exclusions apply; commercial-use vehicles are excluded. Ask us to confirm that your vehicle qualifies and explain the actual terms before purchase.
Where can I test drive a Mustang near New Orleans?
Request an appointment with Matt Bowers Ford at 3724 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Metairie, LA 70002. Share the model or vehicle you want to see and your preferred time. Appointments and vehicle availability require confirmation.
Experience Mustang in Metairie.
Shop available Mustangs at Matt Bowers Ford, then request a test drive. We welcome shoppers from New Orleans, Kenner and across Greater New Orleans.
Appointments are subject to confirmation and vehicle availability.
3724 Veterans Memorial Blvd · Metairie, LA 70002Call 504-293-1100
Sources & comparison notes
2026 U.S. model information checked November 11, 2026. This overview focuses on Mustang EcoBoost, GT and 5.0L Dark Horse, alongside Charger SIXPACK gas models, with Daytona identified separately. Equipment varies by model and package. Confirm details on the actual vehicle. No price, incentive or acceleration result is promised.
