2020 Ford Mustang vs 2021 Chevrolet Corvette

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 film "Bullitt." This special edition Mustang was painted in the same Dark Highland Green as the movie car, with an option for Shadow Black. Its design was clean and classic, featuring subtle chrome accents and retro Torque Thrust-style 19-inch aluminum wheels. Inside, the Bullitt boasted unique green stitching in the leather upholstery, a white cue-ball shifter knob, and a serialized plaque on the dashboard. Despite its nostalgic appeal, the Mustang Bullitt came with a hefty price tag, starting at $47,705 and reaching $54,290 with additional packages. However, considering the original movie car sold for $3.74 million, the Bullitt seemed like a bargain for enthusiasts.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible, with its striking flying buttresses and retractable hardtop, offered a different kind of allure. The convertible top could be lowered in 18 seconds and raised in 22 seconds, providing an open-air experience that amplified the engine's roar. While the convertible added $7,500 to the price compared to the coupe, it eliminated concerns about handling the targa roof panel. However, the convertible's design did compromise rear visibility, and the engine was not visible under glass as in the coupe. Despite these trade-offs, the Corvette's performance and exotic mid-engine proportions made it a standout choice. The base 1LT trim started at $66,400, with the 2LT and 3LT trims offering additional features and higher price points.

The 2020 Ford Mustang offered a range of performance options, from the 310-horsepower EcoBoost Fastback to the 760-horsepower Shelby GT500. The Mustang Bullitt, based on the Mustang GT, delivered 480 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, thanks to enhancements like an intake manifold from the Shelby GT350. It featured a six-speed manual transmission, structural bracing, Brembo brakes, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The Bullitt's performance was a blend of raw power and refined handling, with driving modes that allowed for a customizable experience. Fuel economy varied across the lineup, with the Bullitt achieving 14/23/17 mpg.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette, equipped with the optional Z51 Performance Package, produced 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque from its 6.2-liter V8 engine. The Corvette's eight-speed dual-clutch transmission provided smooth gear changes, and the car's multiple driving modes allowed for tailored performance. The Z51 Package included performance-tuned Magnetic Ride Control, performance brakes, and an electronic limited-slip rear differential. The Corvette's mid-engine layout contributed to its dynamic handling, and its forward visibility was a notable advantage. While the Corvette's limits were best explored on a track, it remained a delight to drive on public roads.

The 2020 Ford Mustang prioritized style and performance over practicality. Its rear seat was cramped, and storage space was limited. However, the Mustang Fastback offered a comfortable ride for two adults and a 13.5 cubic-foot trunk. Standard black leather seats provided power adjustment, heating, and ventilation, while optional Recaro seats offered better bolstering for spirited driving. The Mustang's interior was functional but lacked some refinement.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette's interior was characterized by its digital instrumentation panel, unique switchgear, and quality materials. The GT2 seats in the test car featured Nappa leather, heating, and ventilation. While getting in and out of the car could be challenging, the interior offered a bespoke feel. The Corvette provided 12.6 cubic feet of cargo space, split between the rear trunk and front storage area. Despite its sporty design, the Corvette's interior was practical for a sports car.

The 2020 Ford Mustang excelled in performance technology, offering features like adjustable steering effort, active exhaust modes, and Track Apps for monitoring performance. The 12-inch digital instrumentation cluster was sophisticated, but the Sync 3 infotainment system showed its age. It included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, but the interface was less responsive than newer systems.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation display and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2LT trim added a head-up display and a Performance Data Recorder for capturing driving data and video. The Corvette's infotainment system was intuitive, and the available 14-speaker Bose audio system delivered excellent sound quality. The Corvette's technology was user-friendly and enhanced the driving experience.

The 2020 Ford Mustang Bullitt lacked advanced safety features, appealing to purists who preferred a more traditional driving experience. It included a reversing camera, MyKey technology, and optional blind-spot monitoring. The Mustang received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, providing reassurance in the event of an accident.

The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette offered Teen Driver technology, Chevrolet Connected Services, and visibility enhancements like a rearview camera mirror and blind-spot monitoring. However, it lacked modern ADAS features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. The Corvette was designed for driving enjoyment, with safety features that supported responsible use.