NASCAR Dodge Charger vs. Ford Mustang: An Unexpected Drag Race Duel

A NASCAR Dodge Charger narrowly beat a Ford Mustang in a drag race.

In a surprising twist of American muscle versus British engineering, a NASCAR-spec Dodge Charger faced off against a UK-spec Ford Mustang in an exhilarating drag race on a British track. The Charger, a former Penske Racing South competitor and driven by Kurt Busch, showcased its 5.9-liter V8 engine with a potent 690 horsepower. The Mustang, on the other hand, featured a 5.0-liter V8 producing a respectable 445 horsepower.

Despite the Charger’s clear power advantage, the outcome of this showdown was anything but predictable. The NASCAR Dodge Charger, with its engine tuned down from its maximum output of 888 horsepower, initially surged ahead, displaying impressive acceleration and top-end speed. Its NASCAR pedigree was evident, giving it a significant edge in raw power.

However, the Ford Mustang wasn’t to be underestimated. The UK-spec S550 Mustang, while down on power, benefitted from its lighter weight and nimble handling. As the race progressed, the Mustang managed to close the gap, making for an incredibly close finish. The final moments were a nail-biter, with the Charger narrowly crossing the finish line first.

The Mustang’s performance was notable, especially considering its previous victories, where it had clocked in at 13 seconds flat compared to the Charger’s 13.4 seconds. This time, however, it was the Charger’s sheer power that clinched the victory.

In an unexpected development, the Cupra Formentor VZ3 ABT, a Spanish family SUV, also joined the fray. Despite its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and 365 hp, it was a formidable opponent. After a series of four races, each car had two wins, culminating in a thrilling final where the Cupra VZ3 narrowly edged out the Mustang by 0.2 seconds, showcasing the surprising agility and performance of this European contender.