The last ICE muscle car standing is king again.
In the high-stakes arena of American muscle cars, the Ford Mustang has galloped back into the lead, reclaiming its title as the best-selling sports car in the United States for 2023. This achievement comes in the wake of the Mustang's sales totaling an impressive 48,605 units over the past year, a notable triumph over its long-time rival, the now-discontinued Dodge Challenger.
See horrifying vintage crash test videos here.
Ford's resurgence to the top is largely attributed to the strong performance in the fourth quarter, credited to the arrival of the seventh-generation S650 model. This new iteration brought a fresh wave of enthusiasm with its revamped exterior, enhanced powertrains, and a tech-laden, substantially upgraded interior. Additionally, the introduction of the all-new Dark Horse performance trim injected an extra dose of excitement, further invigorating Mustang's appeal.
The Mustang's journey to the pinnacle in 2023 marks a significant rebound from 2022 when the Dodge Challenger briefly overtook Ford's star performer in sales. Although Dodge managed to sell a commendable 44,960 Challengers in its final year, it fell short of Mustang's revitalized push. Interestingly, the Dodge Charger, though not a traditional sports car, outdid both the Mustang and Challenger, clocking in sales of 75,920 units for 2023.
This sales milestone is more than just a number; it symbolizes the enduring allure and evolving legacy of the Ford Mustang. As it continues to blend classic muscle with modern innovation, the Mustang remains a pivotal figure in the American automotive landscape, resonating with both long-time enthusiasts and a new generation of drivers.