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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  A Real Hoot to Drive - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By Dude,WaaayBigFun - November 27 - 4:34 pm

  Best bang for the buck on the market bar none! Pulls good from 0 to 3000 rpm and then the power band kicks in from 3000 to redline and when it shifts into 2nd it really sinks you back into your seat. I have an automatic tranny because of rush hour traffic but if you can shift better than the automatic you should be on tour with the N.H.R.A. I get envious looks and thumbs up on a regular basis .Love the throtty V-8 rumble, great stereo, multi-colored dash,a nd heated leather seats. This car has more aftermarket parts than any other car, cannot wait to add roush supercharger.

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  Pony Treckn On the River - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By JMiculka - November 26 - 10:00 am

  Call it a mid life crisis, but after two family sedans and an SUV, it was time to return to a sports car. I had owned a Vette in my younger days, but marriage and a family brought changes to my lifestyle. Now that they are nearly grown, my hands yearned to grasp the wheel of a sports car. Not quiet being able to afford a Vette and still having two kids currently at home, the Ford Mustang GT convertible was my choice.

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  What A Muscle Machine!!! - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By bigred1010 - November 26 - 10:00 am

  I got out of a old mans car and got into the GT and I get alot more attention than I ever did. The factory exhaust is loud and impressive!! This is for a single guy/girl by all means!! Asked strangers who had one before I purchased and all said it is a 10+++

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  2007 GT/CS vista blue - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By Brian - November 21 - 9:41 pm

  I love the car. this is my third Mustang. my first was a 67 coupe, then a 2001 GT, now this one. I love the color, the performance, the only thing Ford didnt get right is the comfort of the driver. On any drive over an hour or so, the comfort level goes down. I have had 2 warrenty issues with this Mustang. The leather insert on the pass. door had to be replaced, it was not glued on properly. I also had trouble with the rev limiter kicking in to soon in third gear, and sometimes fourth. A flash tuner should fix this issue. Overall I am very pleased with my new stang. I cant wait to up the hp.

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  4 Seater Race Car - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By cartright - November 21 - 10:00 am

  This is simply the most satisfying car Ive ever driven. Its hard to believe how much performance for the dollar you get with this car and I can take my family out to enjoy a cruise with the top down. There isnt another car that can do what this car does for less than twice the cost.

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  2004 Ford Screaming Mustang Convertible - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By R.Kelsesky - November 20 - 12:20 am

  Im a 49 year young man who used to be a Pontiac Trans am man but once I drove this baby I was hooked! I love my Mustang. I have a 2004 40th anniversary edition that Im restoring to look like she was just rolled off the show room floor with some of my own classified modifications that will put the GT to shame LOL

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  Americas Pony Real Good Fun - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By carockwell - November 19 - 6:47 pm

  Being a Euro car snob I was more than surprised with how much I liked my wifes midlife crisis car. The new Mustangs have everything I always liked about American cars and none of the problems. The convertible is quiet, dry, easy to use, and little buffeting compared to other convertibles. The car handles extremely well, it is very controllable/predictable on the track and well balanced. The power is amazing, but what would I know I used to drive a Fiat. By far the biggest surprise with this car is how comfortable the car is on long trips. I can drive 800 miles and feel great when I get out. So far, I get 18.7 mpg overall which is okay considering the power and automatic transmission.

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  2005 Mustang Coupe Premium - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By jen - November 18 - 10:30 am

  I enjoy driving this vehicle. It has great lines on the exterior of the car. I enjoy the looks that I receive when I pull up alongside another car. Have I mentioned the numerous compliments that I have received? Its great when merging onto the expressway.

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  Best Mustang - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By cobra rick - November 17 - 7:46 pm

  My wife and I own two 2006 GTs, this coupe and a premium cont. She drives ,the convert has only 6k miles ,they are both great cars and were fine stock ,I own my own mustang shop and modify the cars all of the time ,neither one of our cars is stock ,they are the best all around Mustangs ever built ,we have had no problems ,the shaker 500 is great ,and the back seat isnÂ’t that bad once you get in ,best bang for the buck out there. I have owned around ten Mustangs, including a task built 428 car the aftermarket is huge for this car, Ford did right by getting the aftermarket involved from the start

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  Love my Mustang - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Mustang JoJo - November 15 - 2:00 am

  This is the 4th Mustang Ive owned since 1982.... dont want to drive anything else. I am a 50 yr old female... I have a great time just driving it... and mine is Bright RED so it attracts a lot of attention....