Muscle cars are admired for their bold designs, powerful engines, and exhilarating driving experience. However, insurance costs for muscle cars in the USA can be very high because of their performance capabilities and repair costs. If you are a car enthusiast looking to enjoy the muscle car lifestyle on a budget, finding one with a low insurance premium is crucial.
This 2025 guide explains the cheapest muscle cars with low insurance premiums in the USA, including detailed price comparisons, insurance tips, and practical recommendations.
Why Muscle Cars Are Often Expensive to Insure
Before we list the most affordable options, it is important to understand why muscle cars typically have high insurance premiums:
1. High Horsepower
Muscle cars have powerful engines, which increases the likelihood of accidents according to insurers.
2. Repair Costs
Specialized parts and repairs make these cars expensive to fix after an accident.
3. Driver Demographics
Insurance companies associate muscle cars with younger drivers who may take more risks.
4. Theft Risk
Some muscle cars are more likely to be stolen, which affects the premium.
5. Performance Features
Turbochargers, sport suspensions, and other performance modifications increase costs.
Knowing these factors helps you choose a model that is less costly to insure while still delivering the muscle car experience.
Summary Table: Cheapest Muscle Cars With Low Insurance Premiums in USA (2025)
| Rank | Muscle Car (2025) | Starting Price (USD) | Average Annual Insurance Premium (USD) | Horsepower | Fuel Economy (mpg combined) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ford Mustang EcoBoost | $29,495 | $1,550 | 315 hp | 26 mpg |
| 2 | Dodge Challenger SXT | $31,795 | $1,620 | 303 hp | 23 mpg |
| 3 | Chevrolet Camaro LS | $28,695 | $1,630 | 275 hp | 25 mpg |
| 4 | Dodge Charger SXT | $33,995 | $1,720 | 292 hp | 24 mpg |
| 5 | Toyota GR86 | $30,500 | $1,760 | 228 hp | 27 mpg |
| 6 | Subaru BRZ | $31,200 | $1,780 | 228 hp | 27 mpg |
| 7 | Chevrolet Camaro LT1 (V8) | $39,095 | $1,820 | 455 hp | 20 mpg |
| 8 | Dodge Challenger R/T (V8) | $42,095 | $1,900 | 375 hp | 20 mpg |
| 9 | Ford Mustang GT | $44,500 | $1,950 | 480 hp | 20 mpg |
| 10 | Dodge Charger R/T | $44,795 | $2,000 | 370 hp | 20 mpg |
1. Ford Mustang EcoBoost (2025)
The Ford Mustang EcoBoost is widely considered the best balance between muscle car performance and affordability.
Key Features:
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Starting price of $29,495.
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Turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost engine producing 315 hp.
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Fuel economy of 26 mpg combined.
Why It Has Low Insurance Premiums:
The EcoBoost model has less horsepower than the GT version, making it cheaper to insure while still offering an engaging driving experience.
Best For:
First‑time muscle car buyers who want good fuel economy and affordable insurance.
2. Dodge Challenger SXT (2025)
The Dodge Challenger SXT offers classic muscle car looks with modern comfort and safety features.
Key Features:
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Starting price of $31,795.
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3.6L V6 engine with 303 hp.
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Spacious interior compared to rivals.
Why It Has Low Insurance Premiums:
The V6 engine has enough power for enjoyment but is less risky than the V8 models.
Best For:
Drivers who want a roomy coupe with retro styling and lower coverage costs.
3. Chevrolet Camaro LS (2025)
The Chevrolet Camaro LS is another great entry‑level muscle car with affordable insurance.
Key Features:
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Starting price of $28,695.
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Turbocharged 2.0L engine with 275 hp.
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Lightweight and agile handling.
Why It Has Low Insurance Premiums:
Lower horsepower and good safety ratings help reduce insurance costs.
Best For:
Budget‑conscious buyers who want a fun driving experience.
4. Dodge Charger SXT (2025)
The Dodge Charger SXT is a four‑door muscle car that works well as a daily driver.
Key Features:
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Starting price of $33,995.
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3.6L V6 engine with 292 hp.
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Large trunk and rear seat space.
Why It Has Low Insurance Premiums:
Its size and V6 engine keep insurance costs more reasonable than the high‑powered V8 trims.
Best For:
Small families or business owners who want practicality in a muscle car.
5. Toyota GR86 (2025)
The Toyota GR86 is a lightweight sports coupe with muscle car spirit.
Key Features:
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Starting price of $30,500.
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2.4L engine with 228 hp.
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Excellent handling and balance.
Why It Has Low Insurance Premiums:
Lower engine output and safety features make it one of the most affordable options.
Best For:
Enthusiasts who prioritize driving fun over raw power.
6. Subaru BRZ (2025)
The Subaru BRZ shares its platform with the Toyota GR86 but offers all‑season capability.
Key Features:
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Starting price of $31,200.
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2.4L engine with 228 hp.
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Superb handling and standard driver‑assist technology.
Why It Has Low Insurance Premiums:
Like the GR86, its modest power levels and safety record keep premiums lower.
Best For:
Drivers who want a light, rear‑wheel‑drive coupe with Subaru reliability.
7. Chevrolet Camaro LT1 (2025)
The Camaro LT1 offers V8 performance at a competitive price.
Key Features:
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Starting price of $39,095.
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6.2L V8 engine with 455 hp.
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Aggressive styling and strong acceleration.
Why It Has Lower Premiums Compared to Rivals:
While it has a V8 engine, the Camaro LT1 is still priced lower than similar models from Ford or Dodge, which helps control overall costs.
Best For:
Buyers who want V8 power at the best price.
8. Dodge Challenger R/T (2025)
The Challenger R/T is a classic choice for muscle car enthusiasts.
Key Features:
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Starting price of $42,095.
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5.7L HEMI V8 engine with 375 hp.
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Comfortable ride and roomy cabin.
Why It Has Lower Premiums:
Its size and structure make it slightly safer in accidents compared to smaller muscle cars.
Best For:
Those who value traditional muscle car looks and sound.
9. Ford Mustang GT (2025)
The Ford Mustang GT is the ultimate choice for Mustang fans who want more power.
Key Features:
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Starting price of $44,500.
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5.0L V8 engine with 480 hp.
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Advanced performance technologies.
Why It Is More Affordable Than Other High‑Power Models:
The Mustang GT offers a good balance of performance and safety ratings, which help moderate insurance costs.
Best For:
Experienced drivers who want serious horsepower.
10. Dodge Charger R/T (2025)
The Dodge Charger R/T is a full‑size four‑door muscle car with strong performance.
Key Features:
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Starting price of $44,795.
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5.7L V8 engine with 370 hp.
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Spacious and comfortable cabin.
Why It Has Lower Premiums Than SRT Models:
Less extreme performance makes it easier to insure than the Charger Scat Pack or Hellcat trims.
Best For:
Drivers who want a muscle car that doubles as a practical daily vehicle.
How to Get the Lowest Insurance Premiums for Muscle Cars in 2025
1. Choose a Lower‑Horsepower Model
EcoBoost and V6 engines are cheaper to insure than V8 models.
2. Improve Your Driving Record
A clean driving history can lower premiums significantly.
3. Bundle Insurance Policies
Combine car, home, and business insurance to get discounts.
4. Increase Safety Features
Installing anti‑theft devices and using telematics programs can reduce costs.
5. Shop Around for Quotes
Different insurance companies offer varying rates for muscle cars, so always compare options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the cheapest muscle car to insure in the USA?
The Ford Mustang EcoBoost is the cheapest muscle car to insure in 2025 with average premiums around $1,550 per year.
2. Are V8 muscle cars always more expensive to insure?
Yes, because they have more horsepower, which raises the risk of accidents. However, shopping around can still help find affordable rates.
3. Which muscle car is best for beginners?
The Chevrolet Camaro LS and Ford Mustang EcoBoost are great beginner muscle cars because of their balance of performance and cost.
4. Do older muscle cars cost less to insure?
Not always. Classic muscle cars can be expensive due to rare parts and specialized coverage requirements.
5. Can teen drivers insure muscle cars affordably?
Teen drivers face much higher premiums. If possible, they should be added to a parent’s policy to reduce costs.
6. What factors affect muscle car insurance rates the most?
Engine size, driver age, location, driving history, and the car’s safety features are key factors.
7. Are muscle cars practical for daily driving?
Some models like the Dodge Charger and Ford Mustang EcoBoost are practical enough for everyday use.
8. Does location affect muscle car insurance costs?
Yes. Urban areas with higher accident and theft rates lead to higher premiums.
9. Are manual transmission muscle cars cheaper to insure?
Not necessarily. Insurers usually focus on the model, engine, and driver profile rather than the transmission type.
10. Which muscle car holds its value best?
The Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang have the best resale value in 2025.
Conclusion: Which Muscle Car Should You Buy in 2025?
The right muscle car depends on your budget, driving habits, and insurance needs.
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Best overall: Ford Mustang EcoBoost – great fuel economy and lowest insurance premiums.
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Best for practicality: Dodge Charger SXT – roomy and suitable for families.
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Best entry‑level V8: Chevrolet Camaro LT1 – affordable V8 performance.
By choosing wisely and following the insurance tips outlined above, you can enjoy the muscle car lifestyle without breaking the bank in 2025.