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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  not perfect, but pretty good - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By caspian6 - July 13 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car used with 3200 miles on it. Saved about $5k over a new one. The car has been ok since Ive owned it, I have a couple problems with it though. First is the throwout bearing noise which Ford refuses to admit to hearing. Second is a rear chassis squeak that they of course cannot hear neither. I rarely drive the car now so these nuances are not that big of a deal. I just installed Steeda Sport Springs and I cant believe the improvement. Ford should have put these on from the start! Otherwise, I love the exhaust note and the power.

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  Dont buy a FORD! - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By craiger1 - July 13 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 2000 V6 Mustang new, since then I have had nothing but problems...A/C went out the second time I used it, the power driver seat had to be replaced 3 times, the engine valves rattle, the convertible top had to be replaced after 6 months because it was splitting at the seams, the CD player had to be replaced twice! I could go on and on but way waste my time. In closing, the car is for sale now and I will NEVER by a FORD product again!

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  2003 Cobra - Ultimate Mustang - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By gm056 - July 13 - 10:00 am

  Its frightenlingly quick! Excellent acceleration with handling and braking to match. Congratulations to SVT for providing the "average Joe" with an affordable performance car that can go toe to toe with the likes of BMWs fabulous M3. Its great knowing I have NOTHING TO PROVE. There are but two American "production" automobiles that can out perform my Cobra. They are the Viper and Corvette Z06. Both outstanding cars that deserve every accolade accorded them. In the "Bang for the Buck" catagory, however, my Cobra beats them both, handily.

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  Dream Car Becomes Reality - 2016 Ford Mustang
  By Randy Smith - July 12 - 7:10 pm

  I have dreamed about buying a Mustang since I was 6 or 7 years old. Somehow the timing was never right. EIther it was too expensive, not practical for family purposes or was a lesser quality product. I just purchased a Ingot Silver Mustang with the Pony Package. It exceeds my expectations. A pleasure to drive. Props to our friends at Ford for really getting it right. This is the best Mustang since the 68-72 era.

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  Best bang for $$$$ - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By AJ - July 11 - 12:23 pm

  Screaming hot car of comfort, design, innovation and most of all speed! This is my 7th Mustang and I would buy 2 more just like it in red and blue if I had the money.

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  Impressed - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By kenlwilkerson - July 10 - 10:00 am

  Just bought it. Wondering just what it can do. Scared to open it all the way up...but the day will come!

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  eye magnet - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By jim swisher - July 9 - 7:46 am

  I sold off my 76 Corvette for the 05 Ford Mustang convertible. It is a true sports car with a back seat and a trunk. Though a little tight, its more than i had before. Ford finally got the looks right. the Mustang II look is over. This is straight out of the Sixties! The 4.0L/210 h.p. pulls good with the 5 speed transmission. Iif you can afford $6.00 more per fill up go 4.6L/300 hp, youll get an extra muffler too). Well built and handles well for stock suspension. Im impressed. Go test drive one for yourself.

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  Return of the King of MUscle - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By madskillz - July 7 - 3:03 pm

  All I have to say about this car is AWESOME! I have never driven such a awesome vehicle before. It looks like a 1960 or 1970 Fastback which was a awesome car. I would recommend this to anybody who wants a awesome vehicle that is a legend reborn

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  a bullitt-proof review - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By matthew - July 7 - 12:16 am

  I bought this vehicle in February 06 and now 5 months went flying by and there isnt a day I dont give thanks for the opportunity of purchasing this great vehicle. All the hype, and history behind it, along with the extra mods, make this GT the best ever built. Accelerates great, looks awesome, and is truly an investment.

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  Jasons 2005 Mustang GT Premium Coupe - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By JHN1976 - July 7 - 12:13 am

  This car is awesome. Its like "whoa!" Its a drastic improvement over both of my prior Mustangs (2000 & 2003 models). It doesnt even compare to either of them. Theres so much room inside. The retro exterior styling is a definite head-turner. The rev of the engine puts a smile on my face. The screech of the tires as I go "zoom" makes my heart race. I feel like a kid with a new toy in my Stang. I think Id live in my car if I could figure out how to permanently install my computer in it.