1972 Dodge Challenger vs. 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500
To start off, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 5,562 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1972 Dodge Challenger. (241 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1972 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 289 kg more than 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500.
Because 1972 Dodge Challenger is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 Dodge Challenger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 (651 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Dodge Challenger. (401 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Dodge Challenger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Dodge Challenger | 2008 Ford Shelby GT 500 | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Challenger | Shelby GT 500 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5562 cc | 5409 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 651 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2730 mm |
