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:

• 

  Good Car - 1999 Ford Mustang
  By James - March 27 - 8:47 am

  I bought this Mustang in Feb. of 2004 with only 52,000 miles on it. It already had the 60,000 miles work done on it. Since then Ive driven it to about 88,000 miles. It performs great - good acceleration and decent cornering (though I rarely push either). The top very rarely leaks, only when Ive driven in BIG storms. Its only happened twice. This is a big improvement over my last convertible, a 92 Mustang. The only problems Ive had are that the cruise control button fell off one day last year (its still usable) and the front brakes have needed A LOT of work ($1300). They always cover the front rims with brake dust as well. Overall Im very happy with the car.

• 

  Ford Wont Fix My Mustang - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Another Lemon Driver - March 26 - 12:18 pm

  I believe it is NOT normal.There is a surge in the RPMs in neutralÂ…up to 2500 at times. This problem is intermittent. According to the engineer, this is the way the car is supposed to drive if the car is not downshifted, and also that it could be that I am not pushing the clutch in all the way. I have had this problem occur even in the absence of these supposed precipitating factors. I have had my Mustang in for service numerous times over the past year. The problem started a month after I bought the car. If it is normal, why didnt it do it when I first bought the car?

• 

  2006 GT Premium Roush Stage One - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By cgbexec - March 24 - 3:03 am

  I had no intentions of buying a Mustang. I stopped by the dealership to have work done on my Explorer brakes. While I was there a 2006 Roush Sport caught my eye. I took it for a spin and fell in love with it. I owned a 1990 Mustang GT and this new 06 is a much nicer car by far. I test drove the body style after the 1990 and hated it. It was smaller inside, no head room, but this new 06 is right on the nose with performance, handling, price and styling. While the car has a hint of retro stying, it is also modern in its application. The Roush is only different in a few styling panels and in 18"X10" Rims. The ride and cornering are different from the stock GT as well.

• 

  Horrible quality, Ford refused to fix it - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Fordisdead - March 23 - 9:06 am

  Bought a new 06 GT leftover, after only one month and 1k miles the auto transmission started leaking, took it back for repair. A month later the car starts using lots of gas, running rough, no power, gas smell in car, and check engine light comes on. Take it back, dealer says 3 spark plugs are burned up, they give it back "fixed." Leaving the dealership same problems, take it back, they "reflash" the computer, say its fixed. Leave dealer, same problem, now the valves are clattering, take it back, they say "well have to talk to Ford and let you know." I call Ford, they say "well have to talk to the dealer and let you know." The dealer then says the valve racket is "normal" as is the gas smell.

• 

  mid life Ford - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By mike nivens - March 19 - 7:50 am

  I have been looking at a convertible (mid life thing) for a long time. For the price, style and fun-to-drive, the Mustang was the one. Metallic red, parchment top, parchment leather seats. I wanted a GT, but the loaded pony/premium with 500 watt stereo with the v6 was great-especially since a GT this loaded was many thousands more, and beyond my budget. I love this car and have rarely put the top up in the almost 3 weeks I have owned it. Funny how the CDs sound so much better! How does one go through life without driving a convertible? Having had classic cars in the past, I wanted something that would last, and have excellent parts AND service availably wherever I want to travel.

• 

  Exhilarating - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By Stangish - March 18 - 11:40 pm

  I love my 2007 V6 Coupe Premium. The way my foot barely touches the accelerator before its ready to take off. No force pedaling here. The beautiful interior satin aluminum panel and the stylish ponies on each exterior side panel and the emblem on the back with the pony on the grill design, excellent! The Shaker 500 Audio System with the 6-CD player is awesome and sounds so good and clear with windows rolled up closing myself off to the outside world and enjoying the luxury inside along with the bucket seats. I love the functions of the power system and the speed control. My pony also comes with anti-lock brakes and traction control. I love my Pony.

• 

  Awesome, best of my last three - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By mustang3 - March 18 - 8:13 pm

  The best yet for Mustangs. Beautiful and powerful. Much improved seating and noise. Unbelievable Shaker 1000!

• 

  Perfect - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By X-Ray Mike - March 18 - 7:40 pm

  I have had my 05 GT for 12 days now and it is flat-out the best new Ford in nearly forever. Over the weekend I took it down to Arizona (from Nevada) and, with cruise set at 80 mph, I averaged nearly 27 mpg. Overall I am getting about 16 in town and 25 on the highway -- just about what the window sticker says (thats a first!). Unlike previous Mustangs, this one actually handles well. Its been raining virtually non-stop here since I picked up the car and I have yet to really break loose with the traction control on. The interior is a perfect throwback to the 60s heritage and the sound system is amazing. BTW, I paid slightly below MSRP for mine.

• 

  Great car - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By James C Nase - March 13 - 10:22 pm

  I do all my own maintenance, how ever I did get an after market vehicle coverage plan. I can not determine what the oil change schedule is if you only drive your car 6,000 miles a year. Love the car, but not sure if I will keep the coverage plan. I replaced the Trans and rear, trunk lid w/ spoiler, tail lights, radio, rotors, brakes, wheel inserts and some small items. this vehicle was a repo and the last owner stripped and sold some parts. Still looking for a recommended maint schedule for cars over 130,000 miles, driven at 6,000 miles per year. [contact info removed].

• 

  Best buy - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Jsh502 - March 12 - 8:21 pm

  Best bang for your buck. Faster than 90% of stock street cars. Fastest street car under $50000. Recommend anyone looking for a great sports car then this is the one.