Dodge Charger Daytona EV Beats Mustang Dark Horse in U-Drag Test

Dodge Charger Daytona EV outperforms the Ford Mustang Dark Horse in Edmunds' U-Drag race, showcasing the EV’s power, acceleration, and all-wheel drive advantage.

The latest round of Edmunds' U-Drag brought together two muscle car icons from different eras — the electric Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack Stage 2 and the gasoline-powered Ford Mustang Dark Horse. On paper, the Mustang looked promising, with its V8 engine, rear-wheel drive, and significantly lighter weight. But the race told a different story.

The Ford Mustang Dark Horse stands as one of the most powerful versions in the lineup, producing 500 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. Agile and responsive, the Mustang showcased its handling strengths on the track.

Yet, the Dodge Charger proved to be a formidable rival. The Scat Pack Stage 2 variant delivers up to 670 horsepower and 626 lb-ft of torque, thanks to its PowerShot system that provides a temporary power boost. Its all-wheel drive and instant electric torque gave it a powerful launch, despite weighing 2,648 kg — nearly a ton heavier than the Mustang.

During the U-Drag, the Charger pulled ahead quickly on the straights. The Mustang attempted to claw back ground in the corners, benefiting from its lower weight and sportier tuning. Still, the final result was clear: even after swapping drivers and lanes, the Dodge emerged victorious, its acceleration simply too much for the classic muscle car.

Notably, the Charger Daytona EV rides on Stellantis' STLA Large platform and houses a 100.5 kWh battery. While its weight challenges its cornering agility, Dodge’s suspension tuning helps offset some of those limitations. Fast charging from 5% to 80% takes just over 50 minutes, making it practical for everyday driving.

This comparison test underscored a major shift in the muscle car world. The electric Charger is not just keeping pace — it’s taking the lead. Dodge’s EV redefines expectations, proving that even in this traditionally V8-dominated segment, electric power is ready to take over.

Source: edmunds.com