Overview & Reviews

About as popular a household automotive name as you'll find, the Ford Mustang is the longest surviving of the affordable breed of classic American muscle cars. Sold always in coupe and most times in convertible and 2+2 fastback forms as well since its mid-1964 introduction, the Ford Mustang is the only one of the original pony cars to enjoy an uninterrupted production run. It hasn't been easy either, as oil crises, tightening emissions standards and corporate budget cuts have put the Mustang's future in doubt on more than one occasion. Ultimately, though, its iconic status within the Ford lineup and popularity with consumers have seen it through.

Of course, any car enthusiast worth his 10W-40 would love to have a classic Mustang in his garage. But even more recent vintages have plenty of appeal, while the latest Mustangs offer all the style and performance any car buff could want. The current-generation Ford Mustang in particular is easily the best ever from the standpoints of performance, refinement, features and day-to-day livability.

Current Ford Mustang
Introduced for 2015, the completely redesigned Ford Mustang marks the model's 50th anniversary. Technically, that would have been 2014.5, given the car's 1964.5 debut, but we can forgive Ford for rounding up and choosing to celebrate with an all-new Mustang. In addition to the expected V6 and V8 engines there is now an available turbocharged inline-4 that promises strong performance and fuel economy. Base and GT trim levels comprise the initial lineup. Ford plans a limited 50th-anniversary edition, based on a loaded GT and available in only two heritage colors – Wimbledon White or Kona Blue. Fittingly, only 1,964 examples of the latter will be built.

The base car's volume-selling 3.7-liter V6 should make 300 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, while Ford promises that the GT's 5.0-liter V8 will make more than the outgoing V8's 420 hp and 390 lb-ft. The new EcoBoost 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder will generate more than 305 hp and more than 300 lb-ft of torque. As of this writing, exact outputs of the engines were not yet available. All engines will be available with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic (with paddle shifters). This year also brings an independent rear suspension, which promises better handling and ride characteristics than the old solid axle rear suspension, particularly on broken pavement encountered while cornering.

With its tri-bar taillights, fastback shape and sharklike nose, the styling embodies classic Mustang design cues without looking dated. Inside there are improved materials, more elbow room and a smaller steering wheel that tilts and -- finally -- telescopes. Despite the dramatic changes under the skin, the wheelbase and overall length are essentially unchanged from the outgoing car. The newest Mustang is about 1.5 inches lower and 1.5 inches wider, however, and the rear track grew by 3 inches. Curb weight is about the same as the previous-generation car.

Newly available features include keyless ignition and entry, the MyFord Touch touchscreen infotainment interface and a blind spot warning system. Both EcoBoost and GT versions offer an available Performance Pack that features larger brakes, shorter final gearing and high-performance summer tires.

We have yet to get full official information and seat time in the latest Ford Mustang, but will update this review as soon as we do.

Used Ford Mustang Models
The 10th-generation Mustang was produced from 2010 through 2014. Although still heavily related to the previous generation, this version had more modern styling, a higher-quality cabin, improved handling, standard stability control and new features such as Sync, an available glass roof and a rearview camera. There was a choice of V6 or V8 power and four corresponding trim levels: V6, V6 Premium, GT and GT Premium. A Boss 302 and limited-edition Boss 302 Laguna Seca were also offered within this run.

Initially, the powertrains were essentially carried over. As such, the 4.0-liter V6 made just 210 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque, while the GT's 4.6-liter V8 produced 315 hp and 325 lb-ft. Either could be matched to a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Model year 2011, however, brought substantially more muscle under the hood and we would stick with used Mustangs from this year or later. The 3.7-liter V6 produced 305 hp and 280 lb-ft, and the new 5.0-liter V8 was good for 412 hp and 390 lb-ft. Either way, one could choose between a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic transmission. For 2013, the GT's V8 got a slight boost to 420 hp, with torque remaining at 390 lb-ft.

Standard feature highlights for the base V6 included 17-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning and a sound system with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack. The V6 Premium added leather upholstery, a power driver seat, Ford's Sync system and upgraded audio. The base GT was similar to the base V6 but with a V8 engine, 18-inch alloys, automatic headlights and a rear spoiler. The GT Premium echoed the V6 Premium's upgrades. Option highlights included suspension and brake upgrades, xenon headlights, a premium sound system and a navigation system.

In addition to the aforementioned powertrains, 2011 also brought larger brakes, revised suspension tuning and, for the GT convertible, a stiffer structure. The following year, the ultra-high-performance Boss 302 coupe debuted, packing a 5.0-liter V8 with 444 hp and 380 lb-ft. It also had 19-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, adjustable shock absorbers, a suede-wrapped steering wheel and retro-themed body stripes. There was also the limited-edition Boss 302 Laguna Seca (named after the famous American racetrack) with track-ready upgrades such as race-compound tires, a stiffer suspension and a rear seat delete.

For 2013, this Mustang received another, less significant makeover, with a Shelby-inspired grille, restyled front and rear fascias and updated taillights. That year also brought available Recaro sport seats, 8 more horses for the GT, hill-start assist (for cars with manual transmissions) and manual shift control for automatics. There were no changes for 2014 other than dropping the Boss 302 from the lineup.

In reviews, we noted that the 2011 and later V6 versions offered very spirited performance and entertaining handling. The V8 models, especially 2011 and later, provide thrilling acceleration that could give considerably more expensive sports machines a run for the money. But although better than the previous generation, the Mustang's interior still wasn't anything special given its abundance of hard plastic trim. There's also no telescoping steering wheel, which could make finding a comfortable seating position a bit tricky for some drivers. But with its variety of trim levels, choice of coupe and convertible body styles and plentiful punch under the hood, this Mustang has something for everyone. In general, any 10th-generation Mustang would make a fine choice for a used muscle car, though we'd advise going with a 2011 or newer model in light of the aforementioned updates.

Completely redesigned for 2005 and running through 2009, the ninth-generation Mustang moved to an all-new chassis after a 25-year run on the late-'70s-era Fox-body platform. Ford's pony car still used rear-wheel drive and a fairly basic solid-axle rear suspension, but ride quality and handling were more precisely controlled than on any previous Mustang. The car's styling paid homage to the famed Mustangs of the 1960s. Many materials were low in quality, however, as Ford sought to keep the price tag low as well. This version debuted with either a 4.0-liter V6 or a 4.6-liter V8. The underwhelming V6 produced 210 hp and 240 lb-ft of torque. It was coupled to a standard five-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic transmission. The V8 produced 300 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque.

Key updates included the availability of an auxiliary audio jack, satellite radio and a navigation system for 2007. The following year marked the introduction of the Mustang Bullitt, which added firmer suspension calibrations, high-performance brake pads, 18-inch wheels, mild styling tweaks and Highland Green or black paint. Its V8 produced 315 hp. Other changes for '08 included standard side airbags, while in 2009 the Mustang gained a glass roof option and standard satellite radio, among other items.

Previously, there were eight previous generations of the Ford Mustang, and given the car's sustained popularity over the years, older models are relatively easy to find on the used market. The eighth generation was sold from 1999-2004. This is the best of the Fox-body-based Mustangs, and like the current car, it offers a good blend of performance, fun and affordability. Downsides include rather crude handling characteristics (a consequence of the aged platform) and a cheap interior with an awkward driving position.

If you're shopping for an eighth-gen Mustang, our pick would be a GT from any year, as it offered a healthy 260-hp V8. If you're seeking something faster and rarer, consider the limited-edition Mach 1 (305-hp V8) or supercharged SVT Cobra (390-hp V8), which were sold in 2003 and 2004. The Cobra is the only Ford Mustang ever fitted with an independent rear suspension; it was also sold in '99 and 2000 but wasn't supercharged. Even rarer is the 2000 Cobra R, a race-ready, 385-hp Mustang coupe stripped of its rear seats and air-conditioning.

Going even further back are the seventh-generation Mustang coupes and convertibles, sold from 1994-'98. This car is very similar mechanically to the eighth-gen Mustang; the main difference is exterior styling. If you're thinking of buying one, 1996-'98 GT and SVT Cobra models might be preferable, as the '96 model year brought a new 4.6-liter, SOHC V8 that was much smoother than the outgoing 5.0-liter V8. Although horsepower held steady in the GT, the Cobra jumped from 240 to 305. The most collectible Mustang of this period is the '95 Cobra R, a 300-hp coupe without a backseat.

User Reviews:

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  2005 Mustang GT premium - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Jonathan - March 9 - 1:44 pm

  If Ford makes all future Mustangs live up to this one, you will always find me in the drivers seat of one. I fell in love with this design when I saw it unveiled in numerous magazines and auto shows. From an interior that leaves you feeling swaddled in comfort to the retro gauges that seem to smile when you take a seat and a beautiful body design, this car catches the very elements that an American muscle car should have attitude and appeal. The car is affordable and the performance is great. Space could be better, but works for a muscle car. Gas mileage is good considering V8 power and curb weight. Overall, kudos to FMC. This car has punched its ticket in the automotive hall of fame.

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  Unbelievable - 2008 Ford Mustang
  By torinotroy - March 7 - 1:42 am

  A step up from the GT. From the moment I sat in it, I knew I had to have it. This is coming from a guy who owned 2 Vettes in the past! The seat hugs you, the power shocked me. Ive also owned a 1996 Cobra- this thing would maul it. At first glance my car looks like a six cylinder Stang, in fact thats what I thought it was...negative. Also love the fact theres no badges-except for the ponys on the rims and BULLITT faux gas cap on the rear panel. The shaker 1000 sound system is louder than the Bose system in previous cars Ive owned (a big plus for me!). The fact that its 1 of 7000 is reason enough to invest in one, in my opinion, bang for buck, unbeatable.

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  First Ford - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Convert - March 6 - 9:20 am

  Wow. This car pulled me out of my Mopars for the first time in my life (age 41). I have not liked Ford car designs for years now. Nothing excited me like this car (in this price range). I have the manual and the shifting is very smooth. For 300 hp I think the acceleration is poor but the sound is awesome. The sound is why I got the V8 over the V6. The handling is very "secure". The driving outputs match the inputs very well. The retro dash with MyColor is a great mix of new and old. I feel the 500 radio is more than enough for someone my age. Great convertible top seal so far. Low wind noise. Mentioned before on this site, this car sure does get looks! Screaming Yellow.

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  Great car but squeaks and groans - 2008 Ford Mustang
  By David - March 5 - 2:47 pm

  For the money this has to be the best performance car available today. This is my second Mustang and when it comes to performance it really screams while delivering great fuel mileage from regular gas. It handles very good and actually is very comfortable on long trips. It does have a fault however. The gearshift lever vibrates and resonates when accelerating which takes away from the otherwise pleasant experience. It also has periodic squeaks and rattles from the front that just can not be found. Drives me crazy and the dealer can not find or even agree that the sounds exist. Ford needs to fix this, my 88 Mustang had none of this noise and it was on a worse platform?

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  Perfect car - 2011 Ford Mustang
  By Christopher Cote - March 5 - 1:57 pm

  Do your research, this is a car that dealers like to overprice due to it being eye candy for the dealer lot, a great deal can be had all you need is persistence

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  Daddys Toy - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Mr. Wolf - March 4 - 10:10 pm

  Ive been waiting 20 years to purchase a GT Mustang. Good things come to those who wait. Downside, 4 out of 5 Ford dealers in Las Vegas are adding $3000 to MSRP and wont budge. Dealer 5 didnt play this loser game and I bought it! I drove the GTO 6.0 , but stuck with the GT Mustang, it just felt better and was more just what the doctor ordered. If you dont have one, you owe it to yourself to take a test drive.

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  08 Mustang Bullitt - 2008 Ford Mustang
  By JVTiger - March 4 - 1:34 pm

  Balance is the keyword for this car. Handling, power, comfort are all in sync. Ive driven only BMWs for the past 20 years and was surprised at how refined this car is. I am a tall guy...visibilty and ease of getting in and out are better than my 5 series BMW. Even though it is a stealth looking car, dont get it if you dont want to answer lots of questions. Everyone wants to talk about it.

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  The Return of The King - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By jchiar - March 2 - 1:10 am

  Great car. Use to own a 69 fastback and hated the designs of the Mustang ever since - until now. This years model is the best since then. It has classic styling, awesome performance and the best thing about it is that it is completely re-tooled. Which means it is not related to any of the 71-04 models. It gets looks wherever I drive it from all age groups. It has brought back my enthusiasm for the Mustang again. I would recommend this car to anyone.

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  05 Stang is Awesome! - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Rich - February 25 - 5:43 pm

  I pre-ordered this car back in May 2004 on the first day that dealers could take an order for an 05 Stang. Mine is a loaded GT premium - upgraded red leather, aluminum wheels, interior upgrade package, side airbags, alarm. The power, handling and build quality are great. I love this car!

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  Fun, fun - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Jon - February 22 - 5:21 pm

  I just got this car last month, but from what I can see so far its great. Im 6ft 185 pounds, and I fit just fine in it, I dont even need the seat all the way back, and 4 people can fit in it, just so long as they arent huge. I get 20mpg average... and thats with getting on it a few times a day.