If we didn’t know any better, we might swear that GM and Ford are in cahoots. One need look no further than their muscle car offerings. The Camaro and Mustang, while distinctly different vehicles, are so similar in performance (at least on paper) that you can’t go wrong by buying either car. It really comes down to personal preference when either vehicle comes with six-speed transmissions, over 400 horsepower, and decidedly retro looks. Apparently, buyers are equally split over which muscle car to buy.

Ford has managed to gain a slight edge on the Camaro in terms of sales, according to Motor Trend. Ford’s revised 2011 pony car outsold the Camaro by just three cars in the month of July.

Statistically speaking, that is a negligible difference in sales. The Chevy Camaro has been handily outselling the Mustang for the past year, due both to the Camaro being a new release, and many Ford fans awaiting the new drivetrain configurations available in the 2011 Mustang. Yet the Camaro’s sales remain strong, even as the Mustang has mounted an impressive comeback.

In July, Ford managed to sell 7,489 Mustangs, compared to 7,486 Camaros. Ford, as a whole, is up 5%, despite (or perhaps due) to killing off the Mercury brand. Year-to-date sales are up a dramatic 24%, led by a much improved product portfolio, and perhaps Ford’s ability to avoid taking any taxpayer bailout money. All we know is that Ford and GM have given us some of the best muscle cars ever built, and no matter which you choose, you can’t go wrong.