The roar of a powerful V8, the intoxicating scent of high-octane fuel, and the sheer, unbridled force under the hood – these are the hallmarks of the American muscle car. In an era increasingly dominated by hybrids and electric vehicles that promise a future of 50 miles per gallon or more, some automotive legends steadfastly refuse to conform. They are the defiant outliers, the unapologetic fuel-guzzlers that prioritize raw performance and visceral driving experiences above all else. For a true automotive enthusiast, the appeal isn’t just about speed; it’s about the very essence of power, a symphony of internal combustion that speaks to the soul.
Indeed, while the world turns its attention to greener pastures and more economical commutes, a distinct segment of the market continues to celebrate the glorious inefficiency of high-horsepower machines. These are not mistakes or missteps in design; rather, their significant fuel consumption is a direct consequence of the immense power they generate. We’re talking about vehicles engineered for adrenaline, for quarter-mile times that defy belief, and for a presence on the road that simply cannot be ignored. Their thirst for gasoline is, in many ways, an integral part of their formidable character, a necessary trade-off for the astonishing performance they deliver.
At MotorTrend, we believe in providing comprehensive evaluations, rich with specifications and performance data, to truly understand what makes these vehicles tick. We delve beyond the marketing hype to offer an objective and comparative analysis, highlighting both their strengths and, in this case, their inherent “weaknesses” when it comes to fuel economy. This in-depth look focuses on some of the most prominent modern muscle cars that stand farthest from the fuel-efficient mainstream in 2023 and beyond, offering a precise, expert-driven perspective on their gluttonous habits and the extraordinary power that defines them. Prepare to discover the top contenders in the category of modern muscle cars with the most demanding appetites for fuel.
1. **Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170**The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170 is a name that instantly evokes images of unparalleled power and aggressive performance, and its fuel economy figures certainly reflect its extreme nature. This beast earns its distinctive name from the 170-proof ethanol cocktail it can consume to unleash a staggering 1,025 horsepower, a testament to its engineering prowess and a clear signal of its performance-first philosophy. While it is capable of running on standard 91-octane pump gas, its true potential is realized with its high-proof fuel, which underscores the intensity of its design. The Demon 170 is undeniably Dodge’s latest halo car, a crowning achievement in a lineage of legendary muscle, unapologetically pushing the boundaries of what a street-legal vehicle can achieve.
Unsurprisingly, such a colossal output comes at a significant cost at the pump. According to detailed government fuel economy estimates provided by Car and Driver, the new Demon 170 achieves a modest 13 miles per gallon in city driving conditions and only slightly better at 21 mpg on the highway. These figures are, quite frankly, low enough to secure the Demon 170 a prominent position among the most notoriously thirsty muscle cars available today. It’s a machine built not for mileage, but for moments of pure, unadulterated acceleration and power, a stark contrast to the economical considerations that govern the design of most contemporary vehicles.
While its fuel efficiency numbers might not rival those of a Bugatti Chiron, the context clearly places the Demon 170 among the most gluttonous. This specific model exemplifies the very essence of a modern muscle car that trades practicality for raw, exhilarating power. Every drop of gasoline consumed by the Demon 170 is transformed into a thunderous symphony of horsepower, a deliberate design choice that caters directly to enthusiasts who measure value not in miles per gallon, but in the sheer thrill of performance and the exclusivity of owning such a formidable machine. It stands as a bold statement in the automotive landscape, a powerful V8 icon pushing the limits of street-legal performance.
Car Model Information: 2015 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus
Name: Dodge Challenger (2008)
Production: 2008–2023
ModelYears: 2008–2023
Assembly: Brampton, Ontario
Designer: Brian Nielander,
Predecessor: ubl
Successor: Dodge Charger (2024)
Caption: 2017 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack
Manufacturer: Dodge
Class: Muscle car
BodyStyle: notchback,coupe
Engine: unbulleted list
Abbr: on
Order: Chrysler Hemi engine#6.4 Apache / 392 Apache,V8 engine
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, all-wheel-drive layout
Transmission: Ultradrive#42RLE,5G-Tronic,Tremec TR-6060 transmission,ZF 8HP transmission
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All articles that are excessively detailed, All articles with style issues
Summary: The Dodge Challenger is a full-size muscle car that was introduced in early 2008 originally as a rival to the evolved fifth-generation Ford Mustang and the fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro.
In November 2021, Stellantis announced that 2023 model year would be the final model year for both the LD Dodge Charger and LA Dodge Challenger, as the company will focus its future plans on electric vehicles rather than fossil fuel powered vehicles, due to tougher emissions standards required by the Environmental Protection Agency for the 2023 model year. Challenger production ended on December 22, 2023, and the Brampton, Ontario assembly plant will be re-tooled to assemble an electrified successor.
Get more information about: Dodge Challenger (2008)
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Brand: Dodge Model: Challenger SRT Demon 170
Price: $16,467 Mileage: 95,860 mi.
Read more about: Unleash the Thrill: Top Sports Cars Under $100,000 for Performance-Minded Buyers
2. **Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody**Following closely in the footsteps of its Demon sibling, the 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody is another formidable, V8-powered muscle car that makes no apologies for its significant fuel consumption. It perfectly embodies the “gluttonous” descriptor, a machine designed with a single-minded focus on power and performance, relegating fuel economy to a secondary, almost negligible, concern. Enthusiasts understand that such a vehicle is not acquired for its efficiency but for the sheer, exhilarating experience it provides, a philosophy that resonates deeply within the muscle car community. The Hellcat Widebody stands as a testament to Dodge’s commitment to delivering uncompromised power in a striking, aggressive package.
Per TrueCar’s assessments, the Hellcat Widebody swills gasoline at an estimated rate of 13 miles per gallon in the city and 21 mpg at highway speeds, figures that precisely mirror those of the Demon 170 for its city and highway performance. This consistency underscores the shared engineering philosophy within Dodge’s high-performance Challenger lineup: an insatiable appetite for fuel in exchange for staggering power. The Challenger model’s appetite is entirely understandable when one considers the monumental task of feeding its 717-horsepower supercharged 6.2L engine. This powerplant demands mass quantities of both pump gas and air, a symphony of combustion necessary to produce its legendary output.
The widebody treatment itself adds to the vehicle’s imposing presence, visually communicating the immense power contained within its muscular frame. Every design element, from its aggressive stance to its robust engine, is meticulously crafted to maximize performance, making its fuel consumption a logical outcome rather than a design flaw. It is a vehicle that commands attention, both on the road and at the fuel station, embodying the spirit of classic American muscle while delivering modern-day performance figures. For those who crave the visceral thrill of a supercharged V8 and accept the corresponding fuel demands, the Hellcat Widebody remains an irresistible icon in the contemporary muscle car landscape.
Car Model Information: 2015 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus
Name: Dodge Challenger (2008)
Production: 2008–2023
ModelYears: 2008–2023
Assembly: Brampton, Ontario
Designer: Brian Nielander,
Predecessor: ubl
Successor: Dodge Charger (2024)
Caption: 2017 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack
Manufacturer: Dodge
Class: Muscle car
BodyStyle: notchback,coupe
Engine: unbulleted list
Abbr: on
Order: Chrysler Hemi engine#6.4 Apache / 392 Apache,V8 engine
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, all-wheel-drive layout
Transmission: Ultradrive#42RLE,5G-Tronic,Tremec TR-6060 transmission,ZF 8HP transmission
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All articles that are excessively detailed, All articles with style issues
Summary: The Dodge Challenger is a full-size muscle car that was introduced in early 2008 originally as a rival to the evolved fifth-generation Ford Mustang and the fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro.
In November 2021, Stellantis announced that 2023 model year would be the final model year for both the LD Dodge Charger and LA Dodge Challenger, as the company will focus its future plans on electric vehicles rather than fossil fuel powered vehicles, due to tougher emissions standards required by the Environmental Protection Agency for the 2023 model year. Challenger production ended on December 22, 2023, and the Brampton, Ontario assembly plant will be re-tooled to assemble an electrified successor.
Get more information about: Dodge Challenger (2008)
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Dodge Model: Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody
Price: $16,467 Mileage: 95,860 mi.
Read more about: 7 Seconds to Glory: Unveiling the Most Terrifying and Thrilling Drag Racing Machines on the Planet!
3. **Chevrolet Camaro ZL1**The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 enters the fray of modern muscle cars with notoriously low fuel economy, proving that Chevrolet is equally dedicated to delivering raw power to enthusiasts. This track-ready beast, specifically the 2023 model, presents a slightly different consumption profile compared to its Dodge counterparts, yet remains firmly in the category of vehicles that prioritize performance over penny-pinching at the pump. Its design is a carefully engineered balance of aerodynamic efficiency and brute force, all contributing to its aggressive and highly capable character. The ZL1 is a testament to the enduring appeal of American V8 power, wrapped in a distinctly modern package.
When examining its fuel efficiency, a 2023 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 achieves around 14 miles per gallon in city driving, outperforming the Hellcat in urban environments, albeit by a small margin. However, it takes a slight dip on the highway, managing just 20 mpg, which is marginally worse than the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat. These figures, while not identical, place it firmly in the same league of fuel-thirsty performance machines. The distinction in city versus highway performance can be attributed to various factors including its lighter weight, which allows for slightly better urban economy, but its core mission remains high-octane excitement, not frugality.
With a formidable 650 horsepower readily available on tap, the Camaro ZL1 is unequivocally anything but fuel conscious. This immense power output is the primary driver of its consumption rates, translating every gallon of gasoline into breathtaking acceleration and dynamic handling on both the street and the track. The track-ready nature of the ZL1 means that its engineering prioritizes elements like chassis stiffness, braking performance, and aerodynamic downforce, all in service of superior driving dynamics. Its fuel consumption, therefore, is a byproduct of its engineering pursuit for ultimate performance, making it a beloved choice for drivers who demand exhilarating speed and precision, regardless of how often they visit the gas station.
Continuing our exploration of high-performance vehicles that boldly defy modern fuel-sipping trends, we now turn our attention to more iconic machines that prioritize exhilarating power and an unadulterated driving experience over miles per gallon. These are the cars that ignite the passion of true automotive enthusiasts, proving that the pursuit of raw performance remains a powerful force in today’s diverse market. Our comprehensive analysis, rich with specifications and expert insights, continues to highlight the fascinating trade-offs made in the name of speed and visceral thrill.
Car Model Information: 2015 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus
Name: Chevrolet Camaro
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
Production: 1966–2002,2009–2023
ModelYears: 1967–2002,2010–2024
Class: Pony car
BodyStyle: coupe,convertible
Platform: GM F platform,GM Zeta platform,GM Alpha platform
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2+2 coupés, 2000s cars
Summary: The Chevrolet Camaro is a mid-size American automobile manufactured by Chevrolet, classified as a pony car. It first went on sale on September 29, 1966, for the 1967 model year and was designed to compete with the Ford Mustang. The Camaro shared its platform and major components with the Firebird, produced by General Motors’ Pontiac division that was also introduced for the 1967 model year.
Four distinct generations of the Camaro were developed before production ended in 2002. The nameplate was revived on a concept car that evolved into the fifth-generation Camaro; production started on March 16, 2009.
Production of the sixth generation of the Camaro ended in December 2023, for the 2024 model year.
Get more information about: Chevrolet Camaro
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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Camaro ZL1
Price: $16,467 Mileage: 95,860 mi.
Read more about: Are You Driving a ‘Fuel Guzzler’? Unveiling 14 Vehicles That Will Drain Your Wallet at the Pump
4. **Ford Mustang Mach 1**The Ford Mustang Mach 1 proudly carries a name steeped in performance heritage, and it arrives as a distinctive and potent force in the 2023 lineup, even if its fuel economy figures place it firmly among the less efficient offerings. While it might not share the raw, unhinged ferocity of the supercharged Shelby GT500 models from the revered S550 generation, the Mach 1 carves out its own significant niche. It stands out as the most inefficient offering within the standard 2023 Mustang range, a clear indication of its performance-oriented design and the priorities embedded in its engineering. This iteration of the Mach 1 is powered by the highly regarded 5.0L Coyote V8 engine, a powerplant celebrated for its robust character and a sound that is pure American muscle. This engine, while not supercharged in this application, still delivers a formidable punch that demands a steady supply of premium fuel to unleash its full potential on the open road or the track.
Delving into the specifics of its consumption, the Mach 1 yields an estimated 14 miles per gallon in city driving conditions, with a slightly improved 22 mpg achieved on the highway. These figures, as precise as they are informative, position the Mach 1 within the same league of performance vehicles that make no apologies for their thirst. The decision to invest in a Mustang Mach 1, much like its more extreme muscle car brethren, is fundamentally about an immersive driving experience. It’s about the direct connection to the road, the glorious symphony emanating from its 5.0L Coyote V8, and the aggressive yet balanced handling that the Mach 1 is engineered to deliver. For enthusiasts, the value proposition lies not in its efficiency at the pump but in the pure, unadulterated sensation of power and the legacy it represents.
Indeed, the Ford Mustang Mach 1 embodies the very essence of a vehicle designed to transform gasoline into sheer noise and thunder, rather than maximizing mileage. It speaks to a segment of drivers who measure the worth of an automobile in terms of its ability to thrill, to excite, and to connect them with a rich automotive history. While Ford offers more economical alternatives, such as the four-cylinder Ford Mustang EcoBoost, for those seeking a more efficient coupe, the Mach 1 caters to a different, uncompromising desire. Its inefficiency is a byproduct of its dedication to delivering a visceral, track-capable performance that honors its legendary nameplate. The Mach 1 is a testament to the enduring appeal of naturally aspirated V8 power, a machine that prioritizes the spirit of muscle over the dictates of economy.
Car Model Information: 2015 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus
Name: Ford Mustang Mach 1
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Assembly: Dearborn, Michigan
Production: 1969–1978,2003–2004,2021–2023
Class: Muscle car
BodyStyle: coupe
Layout: FR layout
Categories: 1970s cars, 2000s cars, 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles needing additional references
Summary: The Ford Mustang Mach 1 is a combination performance and appearance package offered as an option for the Ford Mustang.
It first appeared in August 1968 for the 1969 model year, and ran through 1978. After a long hiatus it briefly returned in 2003-2004, and most recently between 2021 and 2023.
The first generation of the package, available with various engines, debuted at its hottest, then was progressively eroded in performance as emissions controls, unleaded gas, fleet mileage quotas, and higher gasoline prices undercut the “horsepower wars” that had originally spurred the option. Similarly, early packages included other performance upgrades, such as suspension, that were deleted in subsequent model runs, leaving only a wide array of external and interior upgrades.
As part of a Ford heritage program, the Mach 1 package returned in 2003 as a high-performance version of the New Edge platform. Visual elements paying homage to the 1969 model were integrated into the design. This generation of the Mach 1 was discontinued after the 2004 model year, with the introduction of the fifth generation Mustang.
The Mach 1 returned again in 2021 in the sixth generation Mustang, offering marginally more power than the high-performance 5.0 L Coyote V-8 in the base GT V8, but borrowing front and rear subframes from the Shelby GT350 and various parts from it and the Shelby GT 500 models. It was produced until the debut of the seventh generation Mustang following the 2023 model year.
Get more information about: Ford Mustang Mach 1
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Brand: Ford Model: Mustang Mach 1
Price: $16,467 Mileage: 95,860 mi.
Read more about: The 19 Greatest American Cars That Defined a Generation
5. **Roush Performance Stage 3 Mustang**Stepping into the realm of specialized performance, the Roush Performance Stage 3 Mustang stands as a formidable testament to what dedicated vehicle tuning can achieve, often at the expense of conventional fuel economy. As the second Roush entry on our list and the sole representative from a vehicle-tuning brand, it highlights a distinct philosophy: unbridled power above all else. Hailing from Livonia, Michigan, Roush Performance’s Ford-focused endeavors consistently push the boundaries of performance, and their Stage 3 Mustang exemplifies this commitment. This particular model, a 2020 iteration, registers an estimated 12 miles per gallon in city driving, climbing slightly to 18 mpg on the highway, culminating in a combined fuel economy rating of 14 mpg. These figures unmistakably plant the Roush Stage 3 in the highly thirsty category, showcasing the direct correlation between extreme power output and significant fuel consumption.
The engineering prowess behind the Roush Stage 3 is staggering, particularly when considering its incredible power output. This machine is tuned to unleash a Hellcat-topping 710 horsepower, a figure that not only commands respect but also redefines expectations for a Mustang-based platform. This monumental power is a result of extensive modifications and enhancements, transforming an already capable Ford Mustang into a bona fide performance monster. Every component, from its supercharged engine to its finely tuned suspension, is meticulously upgraded to handle and deploy such colossal force. For the enthusiast seeking an unparalleled driving experience, one that pushes the limits of what is possible, the Roush Stage 3 offers a bespoke blend of raw acceleration and precise handling that few other vehicles can match.
The inherent inefficiency of the Roush Performance Stage 3 Mustang is not a design oversight but rather a direct and understandable consequence of its singular focus on maximizing performance. The massive quantities of fuel required to sustain its 710 horsepower are an accepted part of the Roush ownership experience. This vehicle is for drivers who crave the adrenaline rush of supercharged power and the exclusivity of a finely tuned machine, where the roar of the engine and the thrill of acceleration far outweigh any concerns about fuel stops. It represents the pinnacle of aftermarket performance, a celebration of engineering dedication that prioritizes an exhilarating, visceral connection between driver and machine, making every drop of gasoline a component of an unforgettable journey.
Car Model Information: 2015 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus
Name: Roush Performance
Logo: Roush Performance logo.png
Type: Private Company
Industry: Automotive
Foundation: [object Object]
Founder: Jack Roush
LocationCity: Livonia Michigan
LocationCountry: United States
KeyPeople: Jack Roush, Owner
Homepage: roushperformance.com,roush.com
Categories: 1995 establishments in the United States, All articles needing additional references, Articles needing additional references from December 2009, Articles with short description, Auto parts suppliers of the United States
Summary: Roush Performance is an American automotive company primarily involved in the engineering, development, and manufacturing of high-performance components for street and competitive racing applications. The company’s namesake is automotive mogul Jack Roush, who owns and operates the firm. Founded in 1995 by Roush, it provides automotive engineering from racing to street cars.
Get more information about: Roush Performance
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Brand: Roush Performance Model: Stage 3 Mustang
Price: $16,467 Mileage: 95,860 mi.
6. **Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang**The Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang is not merely a car; it is a legend reborn, consistently representing the pinnacle of performance and engineering within the Mustang lineage. For the 2020 model year, the Shelby GT500 solidified its reputation, widely considered to be, in many respects, the best Mustang ever made. This vehicle is a masterclass in blending raw, track-dominating power with a surprising level of civility for extended use, a duality that sets it apart. However, achieving such a remarkable balance and delivering an astounding 760 horsepower comes with a predictable trade-off at the fuel pump. The GT500 is certainly not designed for efficiency, and its fuel economy figures reflect its uncompromised pursuit of power: an estimated 12 miles per gallon in city driving, 18 mpg on the highway, and a combined rating of 14 mpg.
These consumption figures place the Shelby GT500 in rather exclusive company. When examining EPA’s fuel-economy rankings, this iconic muscle car finds itself sitting on either side of ultra-luxury and supercar contemporaries, such as the Rolls-Royce Dawn and the Ford GT supercar. This comparison speaks volumes about the GT500’s performance pedigree and its status as a vehicle where priorities are undeniably shifted by its immense power. The phrase, “760 horsepower has a way of shifting your priorities,” encapsulates the very essence of the GT500. Its phenomenal capability on the track, where it truly shines, is matched by an unexpected level of comfort that makes it surprisingly livable for daily driving or longer journeys. This blend of extreme performance and practicality demands an engine that can deliver, and that engine, in turn, demands a significant amount of fuel.
Ultimately, the Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang embodies the very spirit of modern American muscle, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in a street-legal performance car. Its engineering is a testament to Ford’s dedication to delivering an unparalleled driving experience, where every aspect of the vehicle is optimized for speed, handling, and an visceral connection. The GT500’s significant fuel consumption is not a flaw to be lamented but rather an inherent characteristic, a badge of honor for a machine that transforms every gallon of gasoline into breathtaking acceleration and the intoxicating roar of its supercharged engine. For the discerning enthusiast, the GT500 is an investment in pure, unadulterated automotive passion, a machine that defiantly stands as a beacon of power in an increasingly regulated world.
Car Model Information: 2015 Dodge Challenger SXT Plus
Name: Shelby Mustang
Caption: 1965 Shelby Mustang GT350
Manufacturer: Unbulleted list
Aka: Unbulleted list
Production: Unbulleted list
Designer: John Chun
Assembly: Unbulleted list
Class: Unbulleted list
Platform: Unbulleted list
Related: Ford Mustang (first generation),Ford Mustang (fifth generation)
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Categories: 1970s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Shelby Mustang is a high-performance variant of the Ford Mustang built by Shelby American from 1965 to 1967 and by the Ford Motor Company from 1968 to 1970.
In 2005, Ford revived the Shelby nameplate for a high-performance model of the fifth-generation Ford Mustang.
Get more information about: Shelby Mustang
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Brand: Ford Model: Shelby GT500 Mustang
Price: $16,467 Mileage: 95,860 mi.
Read more about: Uncovering the Apex of Automotive Rarity: 14 Limited-Production Muscle Cars You’ll Likely Only Dream Of
In a market increasingly focused on efficiency and electrification, these modern muscle cars stand as proud, powerful outliers. The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170, SRT Hellcat Widebody, Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, Ford Mustang Mach 1, Roush Performance Stage 3 Mustang, and Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang all share a common thread: they are built for those who understand that true automotive passion often transcends conventional metrics. They are not merely vehicles; they are statements, declarations of a philosophy that celebrates the glorious inefficiency of raw horsepower, the visceral thrill of internal combustion, and the enduring legacy of American muscle. For these drivers, every drop of gasoline is a down payment on an unforgettable, exhilarating experience, turning fuel into the thunderous symphony of performance.
