2020 Ford Mustang vs 2020 Chevrolet Camaro

The 2020 Ford Mustang Bullitt paid homage to its cinematic roots, drawing inspiration from the iconic 1968 Mustang GT fastback driven by Steve McQueen in the movie "Bullitt." This special edition, painted in Dark Highland Green or Shadow Black, featured minimal ornamentation, subtle chrome accents, and retro Torque Thrust-style 19-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, unique touches like green stitching on the leather upholstery, a white cue-ball shifter knob, and a serialized plaque on the dashboard added to its nostalgic appeal. Despite its high price tag, the Mustang Bullitt was considered a bargain compared to the original movie car, which sold for $3.74 million at auction in early 2020.

In contrast, the 2020 Chevrolet Camaro LT1 took a more understated approach. With hood vents signaling a 455-horsepower V8, Brembo front brake calipers, and LT1 badges, it hinted at its performance capabilities without being overly flashy. The Satin Steel Gray paint, plain gray cloth seats, and sparkly silver 20-inch wheels gave it a sleeper look. The Camaro LT1's design was more about blending in while still delivering a thrilling driving experience, appealing to those who preferred not to advertise their car's muscle.

The 2020 Ford Mustang offered a wide range of performance options, from the 310-horsepower EcoBoost Fastback to the 760-horsepower Shelby GT500. The Mustang Bullitt, based on the Mustang GT with Premium and Performance packages, delivered 480 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 420 lb-ft of torque at 4,600 rpm, thanks to components borrowed from the Shelby GT350. It featured a six-speed manual transmission with downshift rev-matching, structural bracing, improved engine cooling, a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, and Brembo brakes. The Mustang Bullitt's fuel economy was 14 mpg city, 23 highway, and 17 combined. Its performance and handling were enhanced by the GT Performance Package, making it a refined yet raw American muscle car.

The 2020 Chevrolet Camaro LT1, on the other hand, was equipped with a 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 455 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 4 seconds and complete the quarter-mile in approximately 12.5 seconds. The Camaro's Alpha platform, shared with Cadillac's luxury sport sedans, provided excellent handling and dynamic performance. The Camaro LT1's fuel economy was 16 mpg city, 27 highway, and 20 combined. The optional 10-speed automatic transmission performed flawlessly, and the dual-mode exhaust system added to the driving experience. However, the lack of Magnetic Ride Control suspension meant the LT1 had more body motions on uneven pavement.

The 2020 Ford Mustang prioritized style and performance over practicality. The rear seat was cramped, and storage space was limited. However, the Mustang Fastback was comfortable for two adults and offered a 13.5 cubic-foot trunk. Standard black leather seats with six-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation provided comfort, while optional Recaro performance sport seats offered better bolstering for spirited driving. Starting the car in second gear made city driving smoother.

The 2020 Chevrolet Camaro's smaller dimensions improved its agility but compromised practicality. The front seats offered 8-way power adjustment for the driver and 6-way for the passenger, but getting in and out was challenging. The backseat was even more cramped, suitable only for small children. The Camaro's retro-themed interior featured unique climate controls and a minimalist design. Storage space was minimal, and the trunk offered just 9.1 cubic feet of space. The Camaro's interior materials were also criticized for being cheap.

The 2020 Ford Mustang excelled in performance-related technology. It offered adjustable steering effort, multiple active exhaust modes, various driving modes, Line Lock, Launch Control, and Track Apps. The 12-inch digital instrumentation cluster provided access to these features. The Sync 3 infotainment system, while aging, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. Separate stereo and climate controls were also provided.

The 2020 Chevrolet Camaro LT1 came with the standard Chevrolet Infotainment System 3, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen, reversing camera, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, OnStar services, and a 6-speaker Bose sound system. Optional upgrades included an 8-inch display, additional stereo speakers, and a connected navigation system. Higher trims offered more advanced technology, such as a head-up display, rear camera mirror, and Performance Data Recorder. The LT1's lack of advanced driving-assistance systems made it appealing to those who preferred a more traditional driving experience.

The 2020 Ford Mustang Bullitt lacked many modern safety features, appealing to purists. It included recalibrated antilock braking, traction control, and stability control systems, a reversing camera, MyKey technology, and optional blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert. The Mustang received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA.

The 2020 Chevrolet Camaro LT1 also lacked advanced safety features. It included stability control, a reversing camera, and OnStar services. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were not available on the LT1. Higher trims offered additional safety features, but adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist were not available on any Camaro. The Camaro received a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and good ratings from the IIHS, except for an Acceptable rating for roof crush strength.