Halloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsClean PCRecommendedOne scan can reveal what keeps slowing WindowsLook for cleanup and repair opportunities.Run ScanHalloween DealsAmazon USOctober picks are moving - compare before checkoutAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
CarCodyAdvertise
Service recordThe Garage

15 Modern Muscle Cars You Shouldn’t Ignore: Current and Recent Picks

A model-year-specific guide to modern muscle cars: current Mustang, Charger, and Blackwing directions alongside discontinued Camaro and Challenger variants for used shoppers.
Entry412 Date Time7 min MechanicCarCody Team

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

For 2025–2026, “modern muscle car” is best treated as an enthusiast umbrella, not a strict engineering category. The field includes new V8 coupes, a high-output luxury sedan, Dodge’s gas and electric Charger range, and recently discontinued Camaro and Challenger models worth considering used. This guide identifies the model years and powertrains so a used-market icon is not mistaken for a current new-car option.

What counts as a modern muscle car now?

There is no single required body style or engine that defines the term. Here, “modern” covers current 2025–2026 offerings and recent final-era models, primarily from the 2010s through the 2026 model year. The selection emphasizes performance-focused American cars with V8 or other high-output powertrains; the electric Charger is included because it carries the nameplate into a new powertrain era.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The market has changed: the Camaro and Challenger are departed nameplates, while the Mustang and redesigned Charger represent prominent new-car directions. Availability varies by market and dealer inventory, so confirm whether a specific model year and trim can still be ordered where you live. Road & Track’s recent overview and MotorTrend’s coverage provide broader context.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Current new-car directions

1. 2025 Ford Mustang GT

The GT is the straightforward V8 choice in the current Mustang range. Ford lists its 5.0-liter V8 at 480 hp for the 2025 model year. It makes sense for drivers who want a traditional two-door, naturally aspirated V8 rather than a supercharged or electric powertrain. The cited specification page does not establish a price or transmission detail for this comparison, so check Ford’s current local configurator for those details. Ford’s 2025 Mustang specifications

#1 Best Overall
Sale
MPC: 1:25 Scale Model Kit - 1967 Pontiac GTO - Blue, 85+ Parts - Skill Level 2, Authentic Vehicle Building Kit, Replica Classic Car, Age 14+
  • V8 POWER: The model features a 400 cubic inch V8 engine, reflecting the muscle and power that defined the GTO's reputation.
  • DETAILED SUSPENSION & EXHAUST: The kit incorporates separate rear suspension and exhaust detailing, adding to the realism of the model.
  • BUCKET SEATS & CONSOLE: The model's interior features bucket seats and a floor shifter with a console, capturing the iconic look and feel of the GTO.
  • OPTIONAL SUPERCHARGER: For those seeking more power, the kit offers an optional supercharger, allowing you to customize your model.
  • CLEAR & COMPREHENSIVE INSTRUCTIONS: The included instructions are clear and user-friendly, making the kit accessible to modelers of different skill levels, from beginners to experienced hobbyists.

2. 2025 Ford Mustang Dark Horse

The Dark Horse turns the Mustang V8 formula toward more focused performance. Ford lists a modified 5.0-liter V8 rated at 500 hp for 2025. That 20-hp step over the cited GT figure is a manufacturer specification, not a guarantee of a particular track-time advantage; tires, setup, and driver skill matter. Choose it if the more performance-oriented character matters more than simply having a V8 Mustang. Ford’s 2025 Mustang specifications

3. 2026 Dodge Charger R/T SIXPACK

The R/T is the standard-output gas-powered entry in Dodge’s redesigned Charger lineup. Dodge lists its SIXPACK engine at 420 hp and 468 lb-ft, with manufacturer-claimed 0–60 mph acceleration of 4.6 seconds and a 12.9-second quarter mile. Dodge’s U.S. starting MSRP is $49,995 for the 2026 model year, before tax, title, and fees; pricing and availability can change. Those acceleration figures are Dodge claims, not independent instrumented test results. The new Charger family spans two- and four-door bodies, but check the exact R/T configuration in your market rather than assuming every body style and powertrain pairs with every trim. Dodge’s 2026 Charger R/T specifications and pricing

4. 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack SIXPACK

The Scat Pack is the higher-performance gas Charger direction for buyers who want a turbocharged inline-six rather than the R/T’s standard-output SIXPACK setup. Dodge now positions the Charger as a multi-energy lineup, pairing gas SIXPACK variants with electric Daytona versions in two- and four-door body styles. Power, transmission, drive layout, and price vary by exact trim and configuration; consult Dodge’s current listing before comparing a Scat Pack directly with a V8 Mustang. Dodge Charger lineup FAQ

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

5. 2026 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack

The Daytona Scat Pack is the all-electric branch of the new Charger family. It challenges the old assumption that a modern muscle car must have a combustion V8, while retaining the Charger name and performance positioning. Its electric character makes it a different ownership proposition from a gas SIXPACK: consider charging access and your preference for electric driving before treating the two as interchangeable. The cited Dodge lineup information establishes the gas/electric and body-style breadth, but does not provide a single comparable output or price for every configuration. Dodge Charger lineup FAQ

Rank #3
AMT 1968 Chevy Camaro Z/28 1:25 Scale Model Kit
  • Accurate Scale Model Kit
  • Paints and Glue Required
  • Easy to Build
  • Detailed Instructions Included
  • This is the 1: 25 Scale 68 Camaro Z/28 Plastic Model Building Kit by AMT, Item No 868, This is not a toy

6. 2026 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing

The Blackwing is the sedan option for buyers who want serious power with four doors and a luxury-car setting. Cadillac specifies a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing 668 hp and 659 lb-ft for the 2026 CT5-V Blackwing, with a six-speed manual or available ten-speed automatic. It is the strongest output figure among the currently specified combustion models in this list, but horsepower alone does not decide whether it fits: its sedan format and premium positioning set it apart from pony-car coupes. Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing specifications

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Recent models to shop for used

The Camaro and Challenger remain relevant choices on the used market, but they should not be presented as current new-car lineups. Their exact availability depends on year, condition, and local inventory. The entries below name model families and variants rather than suggesting one specification applies across every year.

Rank #4
AMT 1970 Chevy Chevelle John Wick 1:25 Scale Model Kit
  • 1:25 scale, skill level 2, paint & glue required
  • 82 parts
  • Molded in white, clear, transparent red, and some chrome-plated parts
  • Black vinyl tires
  • Metal axle

7. Chevrolet Camaro SS

The recent Camaro SS is a V8-powered coupe choice for shoppers seeking a discontinued nameplate. It is a natural cross-shop for late-model Mustang buyers who prioritize a traditional two-door performance car. Because output, transmission, and equipment changed across model years, verify the specific year and trim on the vehicle listing and factory documentation; no single output figure is established here. Road & Track’s recent overview

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

8. Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

The Camaro ZL1 is the more extreme recent Camaro variant to seek out used, with a performance-first identity above the SS. It belongs on a shortlist for a buyer whose priority is a high-performance Camaro rather than a currently orderable new car. Since this roundup does not establish one model year’s exact specifications, check the year-specific Chevrolet documentation and the car’s options before comparing it with a Mustang Dark Horse or CT5-V Blackwing. MotorTrend’s coverage

Best Value
Revell 1968 Pontiact Firebird 2N1 Plastic Car Model Building Kit 1:25 Scale
  • Revell Model Kit #14545, Skill Level 4, Contains 122-Parts, Recommended for ages 12 and up
  • Pontiac 400 c.i. Ram Air engine plus optional race engine parts and interior.
  • Stock or Torque Thrust wheels and optional racing seat and roll bar.
  • Authentic stock and drag racing decals.
  • Molded in white and clear with chrome plated parts and soft black tires. Requires paint and glue.(not included)

9. Dodge Challenger R/T

A recent Challenger R/T offers the classic long-hood, two-door muscle-car shape in a discontinued line. The R/T name spans multiple years and configurations, so the badge alone is not enough to establish engine output or equipment. Confirm the model year, engine, transmission, and service history on the individual car rather than applying current Charger R/T specifications to an older Challenger. Road & Track’s recent overview

10. Dodge Challenger Scat Pack

The Challenger Scat Pack is a used-market alternative for shoppers who want a more performance-oriented Challenger than the R/T. As with other discontinued variants, details depend on model year and configuration. Check for the exact powertrain and equipment on the car being considered; the Scat Pack badge does not make it equivalent to the redesigned Charger Scat Pack SIXPACK. MotorTrend’s coverage

11. Dodge Challenger Hellcat

The Challenger Hellcat is the supercharged V8 branch of the recent Challenger family and a standout for buyers drawn to the nameplate’s high-output reputation. Specific output, transmissions, and body or package details vary across Hellcat model years and versions. Treat it as a used performance-car purchase: establish the precise variant and inspect condition and maintenance records instead of relying on the Hellcat name alone. Road & Track’s recent overview

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

12. Dodge Challenger SRT Demon

The Demon is a specialized, limited-run high-performance Challenger variant, not a normal substitute for a current Charger or Mustang. Its appeal is strongest for collectors and enthusiasts seeking an unusually focused straight-line car. The specific Demon year and edition matter; this guide does not assign a universal output or price, and used-car condition and provenance warrant close verification. MotorTrend’s coverage

13. Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170

The Demon 170 is a distinct late-era Challenger variant and should not be conflated with the earlier Demon. It is a used-market choice for a buyer specifically interested in the most specialized end of the Challenger family, rather than a general-purpose daily driver by default. Confirm the precise model year and specification from the vehicle documentation, since the cited overview does not provide a comparable specification set for this entry. MotorTrend’s coverage

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 3
AMT 1968 Chevy Camaro Z/28 1:25 Scale Model Kit
AMT 1968 Chevy Camaro Z/28 1:25 Scale Model Kit
Accurate Scale Model Kit; Paints and Glue Required; Easy to Build; Detailed Instructions Included
$28.99
Bestseller No. 4
AMT 1970 Chevy Chevelle John Wick 1:25 Scale Model Kit
AMT 1970 Chevy Chevelle John Wick 1:25 Scale Model Kit
1:25 scale, skill level 2, paint & glue required; 82 parts; Molded in white, clear, transparent red, and some chrome-plated parts
$32.49
Bestseller No. 5
Revell 1968 Pontiact Firebird 2N1 Plastic Car Model Building Kit 1:25 Scale
Revell 1968 Pontiact Firebird 2N1 Plastic Car Model Building Kit 1:25 Scale
Revell Model Kit #14545, Skill Level 4, Contains 122-Parts, Recommended for ages 12 and up
$33.33

How to choose among them

  • For a new naturally aspirated V8 coupe: Start with the 2025 Mustang GT; the Dark Horse is the higher-output, more performance-oriented Mustang V8 choice.
  • For a new gas-powered Charger: Compare the 2026 R/T and Scat Pack by exact configuration, not just badge. The R/T’s published figures provide a useful baseline, while Scat Pack specifications should be checked for the car and market being considered.
  • For an electric muscle-car direction: Consider the Charger Daytona Scat Pack if electric operation suits your charging access and driving needs.
  • For four-door power: The 2026 CT5-V Blackwing combines a supercharged V8 with sedan practicality; the Charger’s four-door forms provide another route into the nameplate.
  • For discontinued models: Shop the Camaro SS/ZL1 or Challenger variants as used cars, confirming year-specific equipment and condition. Do not rely on new-car trim descriptions to identify a used example.

Specification snapshot

Model and year Powertrain and stated output Status in this guide
Ford Mustang GT, 2025 5.0-liter V8, 480 hp (Ford specification) Current-generation model; confirm local new-car availability
Ford Mustang Dark Horse, 2025 Modified 5.0-liter V8, 500 hp (Ford specification) Current-generation model; confirm local new-car availability
Dodge Charger R/T, 2026 SIXPACK, 420 hp and 468 lb-ft (Dodge specification) New gas-powered Charger direction; U.S. starting MSRP $49,995 before tax, title, and fees
Dodge Charger Scat Pack, 2026 Gas SIXPACK; exact output not stated in the cited lineup FAQ New gas-powered Charger direction
Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack, 2026 Electric; exact output not stated in the cited lineup FAQ New electric Charger direction
Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, 2026 Supercharged 6.2-liter V8, 668 hp and 659 lb-ft (Cadillac specification) Current model; sedan
Chevrolet Camaro SS and ZL1, recent final-era models Year-specific output not stated in the cited overviews Discontinued; used market
Dodge Challenger R/T, Scat Pack, Hellcat, Demon, and Demon 170, recent models Year- and variant-specific output not stated in the cited overviews Discontinued; used market

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

More from the Garage

  1. Entry001Date09 OCT 26Time3 minWhich Brake Pad Should You Buy From RockAuto or Elsewhere?Section: Blog
  2. Entry002Date09 OCT 26Time5 minThe Pros and Cons of Touchless Car Wash SystemsSection: Blog
  3. Entry003Date09 OCT 26Time3 minCan a Trickle Charger or Battery Tender Properly Charge a Car Battery?Section: Blog

Thanks for visiting Carcody

Carcody.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.co

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.