1969 Dodge Challenger vs. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500
To start off, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 (550 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 394 more horse power than 1969 Dodge Challenger. (156 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 should accelerate faster than 1969 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1969 Dodge Challenger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 (691 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Dodge Challenger. (352 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Dodge Challenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Dodge Challenger | 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Challenger | Shelby GT500 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5208 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 550 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 352 Nm | 691 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1800 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 61 L |
