When I first got behind the wheel of the 2020 Toyota Camry TRD and the Civic Type R, I knew I was in for an exhilarating experience. Both cars intrigued me for different reasons. The Toyota Camry TRD, with its sporty enhancements and aggressive stance, promised a mix of daily practicality and performance. The Civic Type R, celebrated for its high-revving engine and sharp handling, was a favorite among driving enthusiasts. However, it was the surprise contender that truly piqued my interest for our drag and roll race.
Starting with the Camry TRD, this isn’t your standard Camry. The TRD version comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 301 horsepower. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, it offers a more engaging drive compared to the standard Camry. Its sporty character is emphasized by an aggressive body kit, sport-tuned suspension, rear spoiler, and sport exhaust—all contributing to its fierce presence on the road.
In contrast, the Civic Type R is a hot hatch that has garnered admiration for years. It features a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 306 horsepower. Known for its exceptional handling, the Type R benefits from an advanced suspension system and high-performance tires. The manual six-speed transmission further enhances its appeal as a pure driver’s car. The Civic’s aerodynamic design, highlighted by an aggressive front splitter and rear wing, provides impressive downforce and stability at high speeds.
Our first challenge was the drag race. The Camry TRD’s powerful V6 engine promised strong straight-line performance, but the Civic Type R’s turbocharged engine and lighter weight could give it an advantage. As we lined up at the starting line, the tension was palpable. When the light turned green, both cars surged forward with impressive speed.
The Civic Type R immediately demonstrated its agility. With precise gear changes from the manual transmission, it leapt off the line with impressive speed. The Camry TRD, while slower off the mark, quickly gained momentum as its V6 engine roared to life. Despite the Type R’s initial lead, the Camry’s power and torque started closing the gap. By the end of the drag race, the Civic Type R had narrowly won, but the Camry TRD had shown its strong performance.
Next was the roll race, a test of mid-range power and overall speed. We started rolling at 40 mph, and both cars accelerated fiercely once we hit the go button. The Civic Type R’s turbo engine provided rapid thrust, while the Camry TRD’s V6 engine delivered smooth, powerful acceleration. In this race, the Camry TRD showcased its strength. Its extra power and torque allowed it to catch up and surpass the Civic Type R, highlighting its impressive mid-range performance.
The day took an exciting turn with the arrival of a surprise contender: a 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT. This all-electric vehicle boasted 480 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of just 3.5 seconds. The Mach-E GT’s instant torque and silent yet powerful acceleration added a new dimension to our comparison.
In a quick drag race against both the Camry TRD and the Civic Type R, the Mach-E GT proved unstoppable. Its electric motor delivered staggering power instantly, leaving both the Camry and the Civic in the dust. In the roll race, the Mach-E GT continued to shine. It effortlessly outpaced both competitors, showcasing the impressive performance capabilities of electric vehicles.
Driving these three cars back-to-back was a remarkable experience. The Toyota Camry TRD impressed with its balance of everyday usability and sporty performance. The Civic Type R remained a thrilling and agile performer with its precise handling and engaging manual gearbox. Meanwhile, the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT emerged as the ultimate surprise, demonstrating the future of high-performance driving with its cutting-edge electric powertrain.
Reflecting on the day, it was clear that each car brought something unique to the table. The Camry TRD offered a compelling mix of practicality and sportiness. The Civic Type R continued to delight with its dynamic driving experience. And the Mach-E GT highlighted how electric vehicles are pushing the boundaries of performance. It was a day filled with high-speed thrills and surprising revelations—one that I won’t soon forget.