Dodge Challenger

The look may be old school, yet the Challenger is a modern, thrilling barnstormer. It's too heavy and wide for pinpoint handling on narrow roads, but it's balanced and enjoyable on an open track. Its V8 sound is heartwarming. Ride comfort, noise isolation, and the stiff shifter and clutch detract, and the view out to any direction is dreadful. The rear seat is relatively roomy, but getting in and out is awkward. Performance packages include a 485-hp, 6.4-liter V8; a 707-hp, 6.2-liter supercharged V8 in the Hellcat; and a 808-hp, 6.2-liter V8 in the Demon. A six-speed manual and an eight-speed automatic are available. We prefer the 5.7-liter V8 over the base V6. Safety tech includes blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and forward-collision warning. A GT trim, with all-wheel drive and a V6 engine, is also available.

The Challenger was updated for 2011 with suspension tweaks that bring more responsive handling with but a slight loss in ride quality. This makes the big muscle car feel more controlled and responsive, while retaining its easy-going cruiser personality. Ride and overall noise levels are civilized for this class and the Challenger retains its throaty exhaust note from its powerful 5.7-liter V8. However, at 19 mpg, fuel economy is nothing to brag about and outward visibility is limited.

This large retro-look coupe was reborn in 2008, derived from the Chrysler 300/Dodge Charger siblings with styling inspired by the original 1960s muscle car. While superficially resembling its namesake, this is a larger and heavier car that comes up a bit short on sporty credentials. It's very quick in a straight line, but handling lacks agility -- though the car is quite comfortable on the highway. The brawny 375-hp V8 emits an invigorating growl, and a larger V8 and smaller V6 are also available. It's a fairly comfortable and effortless cruiser. Good controls, decent interior quality and the ability to seat five are pluses.