2022 Porsche 911 vs 2023 Dodge Challenger

The 2022 Porsche 911 was instantly recognizable, maintaining its rear-engine layout and iconic styling since its debut in 1963. Porsche had chosen to evolve the 911 gradually, making it one of the best sports cars available, though somewhat limited in how much it could change. The 911 was designed as a "driver's car," intended for those who valued performance and were willing to make some sacrifices for athleticism. Despite this, most 911 models were relatively comfortable and suitable for daily driving. The 911's sturdy build quality and refined interior helped justify its high price, and with the push toward an all-electric future, it was uncertain how long the 911 would remain in its internal-combustion state.

The 2023 Dodge Challenger Black Ghost was based on the SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody, with a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 807 horsepower. Inspired by a legendary 1970 Challenger RT SE, the Black Ghost featured Pitch Black paint, white rear fender graphics, and retro touches like chrome Dodge lettering and Mopar-sourced hood pins. The 20-inch wheels had a Satin Carbon finish, and the car's old-school detailing contrasted sharply with the paint. The interior boasted luxury touches such as premium Laguna leather upholstery and genuine carbon fiber trim, though modern technology was largely absent. The Challenger lineup ranged in price from $34,395 to $103,010, with the Black Ghost carrying a suggested MSRP of $103,010.

The 2022 Porsche 911's engine was as iconic as the car itself, powered by a horizontally-opposed six-cylinder "boxer" engine mounted behind the rear axle. This weight distribution favored high-performance driving, making the vehicle more responsive and capable of rotating its tail into turns. The base Carrera's 3.0-liter turbocharged boxer-six produced 379 horsepower, while the Carrera S increased output to 443 hp. The GTS variant offered 473 hp, representing a middle ground between the Carreras and higher-performing models like the Turbo and GT3. The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK) was available on almost all models, with a seven-speed manual gearbox offered on S and GTS models. The Carrera GTS Cabriolet, with the PDK transmission, could reach 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and had a top speed of 192 mph. The 911 cornered with thrilling confidence, and its brakes were effective and smooth in everyday driving conditions.

The 2023 Dodge Challenger Black Ghost's acceleration was stupefying, with the supercharged Hemi engine producing 807 horsepower and 707 lb-ft of torque. The car's rear end could get greasy if the accelerator pedal was pressed too hard, but the traction and stability control systems helped manage the power. The Challenger featured an adaptive damping suspension, stout Brembo performance brakes, and sticky Pirellis, making it ride and handle better than expected. However, it felt large and less nimble on narrow, twisty roads. The SRT models offered Auto, Sport, and Track driving modes, with Sport mode making the steering heavier and the suspension firmer. Fuel economy was poor, with an EPA rating of 15 mpg in combined driving, though the test vehicle averaged 15.7 mpg.

The 2022 Porsche 911's interior design blended historic personality with modern sensibilities. The large analog tachometer was flanked by smaller digital gauges, and a 10.9-inch infotainment touchscreen was centrally located. The standard seats were comfortable and supportive, with sport seats offering improved lateral support. The rear seats were small and better suited for cargo overflow, with the front trunk offering only 4.6 cubic feet of space. Interior storage was limited, but the convertible's fabric top could be stowed or deployed in 12 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph. The 911's interior featured excellent materials and sturdy construction, with options to add color and customization.

The 2023 Dodge Challenger Black Ghost's size paid dividends in comfort and practicality. The sport-bolstered, heated, and ventilated front seats were wide and comfortable, with the driver's seat offering six-way power adjustment. The interior's driver-centric instrumentation and center console contributed to the sensation of driving a modern classic, though in-cabin storage was limited. The Challenger's larger size allowed it to comfortably carry people in the back seat, and the 16.2 cubic-foot trunk was larger than some family sedans. However, the high loading lift-over height made packing light advisable.

The 2022 Porsche 911 prioritized driving experience over technology. The infotainment system's touchscreen was mounted lower on the dash, requiring drivers to take their eyes off the road. Apple CarPlay was wireless, but Android Auto required a USB cable. The base audio system was underwhelming, with the optional Bose system recommended. The Premium package added Remote Park Assist and other features. The Sport Chrono package included performance-related features like a lap timer.

The 2023 Dodge Challenger featured the Uconnect touchscreen infotainment system and driver information display. The SRT-tuned variants offered Performance Pages for data and configurable settings, accessible via dashboard buttons. The 8.4-inch Uconnect 4 touchscreen included wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth streaming audio, and a six-month trial of SiriusXM satellite radio. The Black Ghost included a navigation system and a Harman Kardon premium sound system, though the sound quality traded clarity for bass. The Challenger's age meant it had knobs and buttons for volume and climate control, minimizing driver distraction.

The 2022 Porsche 911 had not been evaluated by NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. The optional Premium package added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and blind-spot monitoring. Other options included night vision and an integrated dashcam feature.

The 2023 Dodge Challenger Black Ghost had limited safety features, including a low-resolution reversing camera, rear parking sensors, automatic high-beam headlights, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control were unavailable. The Challenger received high marks from NHTSA but less favorable ratings from IIHS.