Displacement figures, horsepower, and torque are great all-around numbers to gauge the performance of a muscle car. However, power-to-weight ratios are equally important. The power available to shift the car’s weight is just as important, with the example below being the top players in the market.
In other words, the lightest vehicle with the most power usually wins. This is determined by dividing the horsepower by the car’s weight, with the lowest number being the winner. On paper, this would mean strapping a rocket to the back of a go-kart to obtain the best power-to-weight ratio (PWR). But, in the real world fashion, history, expectations of the car, and materials all play a part.
2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
Power-To-Weight Ratio: 4.72 lbs/hp
A supercar more than a muscle car, the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 can deliver 755HP, with 715 pound-feet of torque, a 0-60 time of 3.0 seconds and a top speed of 212mph. The 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine and seven-speed transmission have turned the long-standing classic into a modern powerhouse, but still with the bowtie attributes.
2022 Ford GT
Power-To-Weight Ratio: 4.62 lbs/hp
In reality, the Ford GT was made as a long-distance sports car to compete in the 24 Hours of LeMans race, winning 4 times. The Ford GT has a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 660 horsepower, 550 pound-feet of torque, a top speed of 216mph and a 0-60 time of 3.0 seconds.
2023 Dodge Challenger Demon 170
Power-To-Weight Ratio: 4.17 lbs/hp
Finally, a full-fat muscle car and probably the most potent ever made. The 2023 Dodge Challenger Demon 170 could be the last hurrah of the ICE muscle cars, but what a way to go out if that is the case. The 6.2-liter Supercharged Hemi V8 produces 1,025 horsepower, 945 pound-feet of torque, weighs 4,275 lbs, with a 0-60 time of 1.66 seconds, and a top speed of 2215 mph.
These stats have won the Dodge Challenger Demon 170 accolades as the Fastest Pony car, and the fastest factory Dodge muscle car ever produced. The PWR rivals lighter-weight European supercars to give you an idea.
Other notable mentions include the 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 with 5.5 lbs/hp PWR, The 2023 Dodge Charger SRT Redeye Jailbreak Widebody with 5.69 lbs/hp, The 1969 Dodge Dart GTS with 7.26 lbs/hp, and the 1969 Plymouth Road Runner with 8.08 lbs/hp.
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