31/08/2026
Turbocharging was changing the performance game in 1985, and the Ford Mustang SVO and Dodge Daytona Turbo Z showed two very different ways to use it.
The 1985 Ford Mustang SVO was the serious performer. Its 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produced 205 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. Instead of relying on a V8, Ford gave the Mustang a turbo four-cylinder and a more performance-focused setup.
The 1985 Dodge Daytona Turbo Z took a different route. Its 2.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produced 146 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. With front-wheel drive, it brought turbo power to a more affordable and practical coupe.
The difference on paper is pretty big.
The Mustang had 59 more horsepower and 78 more lb-ft of torque.
The Daytona brought turbo power to a front-wheel-drive coupe.
The SVO showed just how much performance Ford could get from a turbo four-cylinder.
The Daytona showed that turbocharging was becoming a clever way to get more performance without simply adding a bigger engine.
Two turbo fours.
Two completely different approaches.
