Muscle cars are often associated with powerful engines and high fuel consumption, creating the impression that they are inefficient on gas. However, several models break this stereotype by offering a balance between performance and fuel economy.
The following list highlights 11 muscle cars that deliver surprising fuel efficiency while maintaining their classic appeal. These vehicles demonstrate that muscle cars can be both exciting to drive and reasonably economical at the pump.
Ford Mustang EcoBoost
The Mustang EcoBoost offers a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 315 horsepower. It balances performance with fuel efficiency, achieving around 22 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway.
This model supports regular 87 octane gas, although premium 93 octane is recommended for better performance. It includes rear-wheel drive and optional manual transmission, maintaining the Mustang’s sporty character.
Chevrolet Camaro 2.0 Turbo
The Chevrolet Camaro 2.0 Turbo offers a balance of performance and efficiency. It produces 275 horsepower while achieving fuel economy in the high 30s to low 40s miles per gallon on the highway.
This model serves well as a daily driver, providing spirited acceleration without sacrificing gas mileage. It is lighter and more fuel-efficient compared to the V6 Camaro.
Dodge Charger SXT
The Dodge Charger SXT features a 3.6-liter V6 engine known for balancing power and fuel efficiency. It typically achieves around 18-19 mpg in city driving and up to 27-29 mpg on the highway.
Drivers often report averaging close to 28 mpg overall, with some highway trips exceeding 30 mpg. This makes it a practical choice for a muscle car used as a daily driver.
Ford Mustang 4-cylinder with 10-speed automatic
The Ford Mustang with a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine offers a balance of power and efficiency. It delivers around 315 horsepower paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
This setup reduces weight compared to larger engines, improving handling and fuel economy. Drivers can expect combined fuel consumption near 9.6L/100km (about 24.5 mpg). It is a practical choice for those wanting Mustang performance with better gas mileage.
Lotus Elise
The Lotus Elise stands out for its lightweight design and efficient performance. It offers fuel economy figures around 27 miles per gallon, which is notable for a sports car.
They achieve this through a small, efficient engine and aerodynamic construction. The Elise is also known for reliability when properly maintained.
European models have recorded even higher fuel efficiency under specific testing cycles, emphasizing its economical credentials.
Hyundai Genesis Coupe
The Hyundai Genesis Coupe offers a balance between performance and fuel economy. The 2.0T turbocharged model delivers around 21 MPG city and 30 MPG highway, making it one of the more fuel-efficient muscle cars.
The 3.8L V6 engine consumes more fuel, averaging closer to 14-19 MPG depending on driving conditions and transmission. Its fuel economy is acceptable for a sports coupe with its power output.
BMW M4
The BMW M4 offers a balance of performance and fuel efficiency uncommon in muscle cars. It typically achieves highway mileage around 25 to 28 miles per gallon, depending on driving conditions and tuning.
Drivers report consistent fuel economy on long trips, even with added cargo. Its advanced engineering contributes to its reputation for both reliability and reasonable fuel use in its class.
Mercedes-AMG C63 S
The Mercedes-AMG C63 S blends muscle car performance with a focus on efficiency. It achieves an EPA rating around 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, which is respectable for a high-performance vehicle.
This model uses a twin-turbocharged V8 engine, balancing power and fuel economy better than many competitors. Its refined design offers strong acceleration without excessive fuel consumption.
Nissan 370Z NISMO
The Nissan 370Z NISMO offers a balance between performance and efficiency. It achieves fuel economy around 25-30 MPG combined, which is notable for a muscle sports car.
Its best fuel efficiency tends to occur at speeds between 55 and 60 mph, where aerodynamics help optimize mileage. Despite being an older model, it remains a popular choice for drivers seeking spirited driving with reasonable fuel use.
Audi S5
The Audi S5 balances power and efficiency with its turbocharged engine. It achieves an estimated 18 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, which is notable for a muscle car.
Its fuel tank holds around 17 gallons, offering a driving range near 340 miles on a full tank. The S5 provides solid performance without sacrificing fuel economy.
Jaguar F-Type
The Jaguar F-Type offers a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. Its V8 models deliver noticeable power while achieving fuel economy in the high teens in city driving and high 20s on highways.
The newer 2.0-liter variants improve fuel consumption further, reaching around 35 mpg in some test conditions. This makes the F-Type a viable choice for those seeking a sporty car with reasonable daily driving costs.