[68gtoMN]

Muscle cars have traditionally been defined by brutal acceleration, mixing in a modicum of handling and braking. Today's cars, even in the most subdued configuration, are infinitely better in suspension and braking than with our beloved "vintage" muscle cars. That said, the Chevy was designed from the Holden Platform, with rigidity and independent rear suspension. Chevy's offering is impressive in the twisties and between stop lights too. They bet the farm on creating a road car that is an overall performer (ala Porsche 911 turbo) vs. a stoplight-to-stoplight brute. I believe the Mustang is more focused on acceleration than handling, even though this Shelby is arguably one of Ford's best handling Mustangs ever. No matter what, neither of these cars will be a slouch in the corners by anyone's standards and the Mustang fails only to measure to the leading numbers of the Chevy and likely leads the Challenger by equal or greater difference.

The first test focused more heavily on the road course/driving dynamics measure. This is the first test. Others will soon follow. Then we'll have more than one data point by which to measure the impression of the cars.

But let's look at this from a practical matter - nobody runs their mouth about how their car can lap the Nurburgring faster than another car. The Street is where these two will fight for supremacy. Most talk about stoplight-to-stoplight, top speed, sound, sex appeal, etc. From those measures, the Mustang will likely be crowned the winner.

Two great cars! Choose your poison (no snake reference intended).