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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  love this car - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By peggs - September 12 - 12:40 am

  I love my car it is great in the mountains -- just pure fun.

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  GT 2009 - 2009 Ford Mustang
  By Andrew Savinski - September 9 - 1:35 pm

  Fun to drive

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  Very reliable! - 2008 Ford Mustang
  By Adrian - September 8 - 5:32 pm

  I bought my 08 in 2012 with 75,000 miles. The previous owner must have driven a lot but even though the high miles, my car has never let me down. Its 2016 and the car still works great. Ive kept up with its oil changes, and minor maintenance and my Mustang keeps running without trouble. Ive replaced the alternator, tie rods, sway bar links, shocks, struts and tires and of course the battery. I drive this car daily and it still amazes me at how great it handles. As of today my car has about 110k miles. Any time I get in it I can feel sure that it wont let me down. I always brag to friends of how reliable the car is. I over paid for the car but at least I can say I havent put money into it. The only downside is the interior. The door vinyl panels have started to come off. Ive tried to glue them back but with the Texas heat, they come back off. Also the cloth on the seats isnt all that great. I have 2 kids in the back and with their shoes and spilling foods, the cloth on the seats looks faded.

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  Great Car - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By Frosty_5199 - September 8 - 10:00 am

  Car is great. First mustang ever owned and I am well pleased so far. Plenty of power yet good gas mileage for size engine. Have had 3 Z28 camaros and this car by far out performs them all. Nice deep muscle sound when you feed the fuel to her and true exhaust system too. Not that one muffler split into two crap. I feel that this will be a solid automobile for me and whoever else purchases one.

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  X-Mas - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By dingo1999 - September 7 - 12:00 pm

  The new Mustnag is such an eye catcher. Everyone turns their head to check this car out. If you are thinking about getting one, go test drive it today. That is what sold me and my husband. He ended up buying me one for Christmas.

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  A Super Fun Car! - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Kym - September 7 - 3:00 am

  Ive had my 2003 Ford Mustang Convertible for a couple of months and I am having such fun! When the top is down it turns everyones head. It has no fear of increased speed and is a dream to drive in the hills and on long trips to the ocean. Its just perfection. It had an exhaust leak when I purchased it -- though it wasnt detected by the dealerships "top-notch" service team. The local oil-changing place heard it and the dealership had it repaired. Apparently it is a recall or it is just a common problem. Other than that its been the most fun Ive had since I gave up the keys to my minivan. LOL

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  American Icon Mustang GT Convertible - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By Ben Leone - September 7 - 12:50 am

  This car is a real looker, you would swear it had eyes. Mine has the roll bar it is killer to look at. Then the light turns green, pure exhilaration, you have to behave because 0-60 in 5.7 seconds can get you in deep quick. I have ridden in more comfortable cars but admit that if I want comfort I will take my Mark VI. This Ford product is tops to drive and own.

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  awesome! - 1993 Ford Mustang
  By clint - September 6 - 4:44 am

  Purchased this car in 1996 and used as daily driver for 4 years. Demoted to second car and added some performance goodies mileage went from 19 to 24 and 0-60 went from high 6 seconds to mid 5 seconds (when I can get traction). Keep in mind that those figures are with 150,000+ miles on the car, and not a bit of trouble other than normal maintenance. Not a machine for the timid or new driver, and not the fastest thing on the road, but if youÂ’re looking for a cheap way to add some fun to your daily commute, a 5.0 Mustang is a great place to start. They are fun stock, and really come to life with a little extra attention on a weekend or two.

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  High performance commuter - 2001 Ford Mustang
  By JerryB - September 6 - 2:00 am

  The Cobra is a high performance sports car, but, when driven sanely, is a nice ride, very reliable, and a lot of fun. I drive 120 miles/day commuting. I have not had a single problem with this car, which I have owned for over a year now. The car is docile and easy to drive, but when you need the power and handling, its there for the asking. (I get a consistent 20.5 mpg. Premium fuel is required.) I did get new tires at 25,000 miles, as the OEM were wearing fast and not good in the rain. I had a 91 5.0 LS Convertible that was equally reliable for the 135,000 miles that I drove it.

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  Fun but quality lacking - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By viking093 - September 3 - 10:00 am

  Rear bumper and wheel housing weak. Electric windows squeak. Interior not well insulated - road & engine smell strong.