2020 Dodge Challenger vs 2021 Chevrolet Corvette

The 2020 Dodge Challenger, a third-generation model, was a tribute to the 1970s classic. Updated in 2015, it retained its muscular silhouette while incorporating modern design elements like vents, wings, and scoops. The recessed headlights and grille gave it a menacing look, hinting at its performance capabilities. Inside, the Challenger featured a driver-focused cockpit with a blend of modern and vintage elements, including a semi-digital instrument panel and a modern infotainment screen. Despite its retro charm, some might have found the design a bit dated.

In contrast, the 2021 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible, with its flying buttresses and power retractable hardtop, offered a more open feel and amplified the engine's sound. The Corvette Coupe, with its targa roof panel, provided a different experience. The convertible's top-down travel had some drawbacks, such as limited rear visibility and the inoperability of the rear camera mirror. However, the Corvette's performance and exotic proportions made it a standout. The interior, though lacking some premium finishes in the 2LT trim, remained futuristic and highly functional.

The 2020 Dodge Challenger offered a range of engines across its trims. The SXT and GT trims came with a 3.6-liter V6 producing 305 horsepower and 268 pound-feet of torque, available with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The R/T trim featured a 5.7-liter Hemi V8, delivering 475 hp and 410 lb-ft with a 6-speed manual, or 372 hp and 400 lb-ft with an 8-speed automatic. The R/T Scat Pack upgraded to a 6.4-liter Hemi V8, making 485 hp and 475 lb-ft. The Hellcat models boasted a supercharged 6.2-liter V8, producing 717 hp and 656 lb-ft, while the Hellcat Redeye cranked it up to 797 hp and 707 lb-ft. The Hellcat variants also included adaptive suspension and performance pages for detailed customization.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette, equipped with the optional Z51 Performance Package, delivered 495 horsepower at 6,450 rpm and 470 pound-feet of torque at 5,150 rpm from its 6.2-liter V8 engine. The Corvette's 8-speed dual-clutch transmission provided a smooth and engaging driving experience. Multiple driving modes, including My Mode and Z Mode, allowed for custom configurations. The Z51 Package added performance-tuned Magnetic Ride Control adaptive dampers, performance brakes, and a performance rear-axle ratio. The Corvette's mid-engine layout and excellent forward visibility contributed to its dynamic character, making it a delight to drive.

The 2020 Dodge Challenger stood out with its spacious cabin, offering ample legroom and decent headroom for a coupe. The rear seats provided impressive legroom, though the retro styling and large rear pillars limited visibility. The Challenger's 16.2 cubic feet of cargo space surpassed the Camaro's 9.1 cubic feet and the Mustang's 13.5 cubic feet. The traditional rear-wheel-drive setup resulted in a large center console, while the all-wheel-drive version had a hump in the front passenger footwell.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette's interior was characterized by its digital instrumentation panel and unique design elements. The climate controls ran along a dramatic strip atop the dividing wall, and the transmission buttons were exclusive to the Corvette. The GT2 seats in the test car featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, heating, and ventilation. Storage space was more generous than expected, with a total of 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space split between the rear trunk and the front well. However, getting in and out of the car could be challenging, especially in tight parking situations.

The 2020 Dodge Challenger came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring the Uconnect interface, known for its intuitive layout. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available 8.4-inch screen offering Garmin-based navigation. Higher trims like the R/T Scat Pack and Hellcat included an Alpine premium stereo system. The digital display in the instrument panel provided logical menu layouts, ensuring ease of use.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display that changed based on driving modes. The 2LT trim added a head-up display. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the ability to pair two smartphones simultaneously. An upgraded version offered navigation and a 14-speaker Bose Performance Series audio system. The Performance Data Recorder acted as an embedded GoPro, recording 1080p video with performance data overlay.

The 2020 Dodge Challenger included standard safety features like front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, and brake assist. Optional features included forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path alert, and ParkSense reverse sensing system. The Challenger earned four out of five stars in front driver’s side crash testing by the NHTSA and five stars for front passenger side testing. It received a "Good" rating in many IIHS crash tests but earned a "Marginal" overall score.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette offered Teen Driver technology, providing a report card on young drivers' behavior. Chevrolet Connected Services, available with a subscription, included automatic collision notification and emergency calling. Visibility enhancements like a front-facing camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert were available on the 2LT and 3LT trims. However, the Corvette lacked modern advanced driving assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking.