https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHSYAlsIc2I
Crash tests make for pretty awesome videos, but as most of you hopefully know, the goal of a crash test is to do more than just provide really cool slow-motion footage from multiple angles. Administered by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, crash tests help determine how safe a vehicle is during a crash, and the ultimate goal is for a vehicle to receive a Top Safety Pick (TSP) honor.
Back in 2016, the Chevy Camaro, Dodge Challenger, and Ford Mustang all participated in what, at the time, was a new round of tests to determine the safety of newer model muscle cars.
"Given that sports cars have high crash rates, it's especially important that they offer the best occupant protection possible in a crash," said IIHS president Adrian Lund, according to Motor 1.
Read More: Crash Test Demonstration Shows What Happens When You Run a Red Light
So, what did these sports cars need to come away with that coveted TSP? First, they're required to have "Good" scores in five different tests: Small overlap front, moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint. They also needed a Basic crash prevention system.
As it turns out, none of the cars were awarded with Top Safety Picks, but the Mustang came the closest, scoring "Good" ratings in four of the five safety tests. It also had a Basic crash prevention system. However, the 'Stang did receive a "Marginal" small overlap rating, and its roof also buckled during the test.
Next came the Camaro. While it received a "Good" score in the small overlap test and had a low risk of injuries, the Chevy was hit with an "Acceptable" roof strength rating and lacked a forward collision warning system.
Last, and also least, was the Challenger. In the small overlap test, it received a "Marginal" score, which is the IIHS's second-lowest rating. While it did have a Basic collision prevention system, the Challenger received only "Acceptable" scores in both the head restraints test and the roof restraint test.
If you're interested in a little more explanation on the muscle car crash, you can check out the below video from the IIHS. But, if you just like seeing cars get smashed up, scroll back up and hit that play button again!
This post was originally published on May 8, 2020.