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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  Fun Car - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By worm - September 7 - 10:00 am

  Its not my 67 but its still a blast, the traction control is a pain when driving up a steep wet road, it tends to slip alot uphill. Other than that more power and a better suspension at a lower cost and this car would be perfect. Cant wait for the 05s

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  The best Mach Ford ever built! - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Machman - September 7 - 10:00 am

  Pretty much the perfect Mustang in every way. It has plenty of power, Retro styling, luxiorious interior, great handling and brakes. I have no complaints. I have met several people who own this car as well and they agree with me 100%!!! I also own a 93 LX 5.0 and it was NOTHING like this Mach!! PERFECT!!!

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  I love my little pony - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Steph - September 5 - 9:13 am

  I ordered from the factory and waited five months for my pony to arrive. It was so worth it! I am so happy with this car. It looks amazing and still is one of a kind in my area. It is so much fun to drive. There is, as expected, limited back seat space. She doesnt get great gas mileage. However, she handles beautifully; love the real wheel drive, very sturdy around corners. Realistically, this is not a family car. It is a fun, play car. And she is more fun that words could adequately describe! Assuming you invest in a V8, 5 speed. and do something to personalize it and make it yours .... and be greedy about letting people drive it. It is rare and it IS YOURS!

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  My mustang - 1990 Ford Mustang
  By HockeyJAM2006 - September 5 - 2:00 am

  sweet car. needs more power.

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  3000 MILES / 3 NEW TOPS - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By mjbeamer - September 4 - 9:13 pm

  My top was torn on delivery; it is having its 3rd new top installed (the installer messed up). Most of the miles to date are going back and forth to the dealer. The interior styling is kind of stone-age, but it looks nice from the outside. Gas mileage isnt as good as I hoped. (21-22 mpg) Suggestion: Wait for the Camaro.

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  This Pony has more than one trick! - 2015 Ford Mustang
  By Dave - September 2 - 11:06 pm

  I bought this car in July 2015; traded in a 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR. The Evo was a rocket on wheels, but the Mustang is a true GT car (Grand Tourer/Gran Tourismo). Id subjectively rate this car as about 4.7, but theres no decimal in the star rating. I had test driven a 2010 GT, and HATED it. The engine was great, but the rest of the car was junk. It FELT cheap (brand new, rattled and squeaked, and only had about 15 miles on the odo). It did NOT like corners. At all. When the back end tries to beat the front around a corner, thats not a good thing. The interior was horrible, CHEAP plastic EVERYWHERE. That car had one trick ... go fast in a straight line, hoping the thing didnt vibrate apart along the way. The 2015 is several orders of magnitude better than the 2010, hands down! Particulars: The Mustang GT Coupe with a 6 spd manual has plenty of get up and go. Is it the fastest car out there? No. But, with 435 bhp on tap, it WILL move. It accelerated faster off the line than the Evo. The track functions are fun to play with in an empty parking lot, or a deserted mountain road. The brakes on this car are incredible! Gotta be really careful, as they grab FAST and HARD. There is pretty much no fade through use. So far, as for road-holding, you have to work to make it lose traction. Seriously. Taking some of the curves on the highways in Phoenix at 80+ mph is almost, dare I say it, yawn-inducing! No fuss, no muss, no worries at all. Steering is precise, and there is decent feel in the wheel. Its not like the old manual steering days, but you can still tell whats going on up front. The front seats are REALLY comfortable! I did a 16 hour road trip, only stopping for gas, and I didnt end up with any fatigue or discomfort while driving. The bolsters are good at keeping you where you need to be without being painfully intrusive like Recaros can be. Rear seats ... good for small people. I mean SMALL. Three feet or less. At 6 4", no "car" is easy to get into or out of. Trucks, yes. Cars? No. However, for average height people, entry/exit is a breeze. Ford did a really good job with the noise dampening. The stock exhaust has a pleasant, albeit quiet, growl at highway speeds. However, tire noise on worn tires can be a bit intrusive, but not obnoxiously so. Ride comfort ... see above about the 16 hour road trip. There are sufficient cubbies to lose stuff in. The instrumentation is clear and easy to read most of the time. There are occasions when the auto setting for lighting is less than ideal, like exiting a tunnel. The dash is pretty dark at that point and you may not be able to read the instruments until the lights kick back off. The interior is well laid-out and the controls are easily within reach. Commonly used controls are in good spots. The materials used are generally MUCH better than in previous generation Mustangs, but dont expect a Rolls Royce or Bentley. The radio is pretty good. I dont have navigation, but getting my phone hooked up to Sync was pretty easy. There are two USB ports for connecting/charging devices, or you could stream audio via BT. Climate controls are easily reached and used, and the heater/A/C both work well. The only niggling little things that I find annoying are a rattle that has developed behind the center dash stack, and the tendency of the transmission to be a bit balky shifting into 6th. Otherwise, I think this car really does follow the spirit or intent of a GT (Grand Tourer/Gran Tourismo) vehicle. It has power, comfort, poise, and style without getting into cartoonish or boy racer realms. While this car may have been marketed to a younger audience, it should also appeal to folks over 40 who dont have to worry about kids in the back seat. It can represent on the track as well as devour long miles in comfort. This is probably THE best Mustang Ford has ever produced! The early models in the 60s were great, but thanks to 50 years of evolution, these are just better in pretty much every way. It aint perfect, but it aint far from it, either. EDIT: Corrected a couple of grammatical issues. Also, wanted to add that, for the price (mine was just over $32K), you really cant beat it. The Evo was $47K! I would seriously recommend you check this car out before going for pricier European options, or even other American options. Ive driven Challengers and was not impressed. I drove an older Camaro (2011), and like it, but I like my Mustang better. Its not gonna be for everyone, but it should be tested before being removed from consideration!

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  Dependable racer - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By Kimgrlrcr - September 2 - 2:00 am

  I have had my car for 3 years now and I love it now as much as I did when I bought it. I still get compliments on a car that is now 4 years old

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  SVT Lemon - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Trae - September 2 - 2:00 am

  Unfortunately, I would recommend against purchasing this car. The transmission has been serviced 6 times since purchase and the convertible top, twice. The car left me on the road the second day I had it. To make matters worse, Don Bohn Ford refused to repair the car. Currently, the car is pending replacement from the Ford Arbitration board and I may have to seek an attorney to replace it.

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  semi-satisfied owner - 1999 Ford Mustang
  By rtbill - August 31 - 2:00 am

  bought used with 7400 miles in like new condition. now have 58000 and it has never cost a dime in maintenance except for routine oil & filter changes. brakes & steering very good. heater & air very good. ride comfort is awful. 5 speed sloppy & difficult to shift into first when at full stop. difficult to enter & exit. shoulder belt height is non-adjustable and constantly pulls out of seat back plastic loop. all in all an inexpensive car to own and has great looks with Cobra style wheels & tires. Poor traction with this tire package when streets are wet however.

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  Fun Car To Drive - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Al - August 30 - 5:36 am

  Ive owned four Mustangs, 1984-GT, 1986-GT convertible, 2000-V-6 and a 2000-GT (auto) and now a 2005-GT(5-speed) So far this is the best of all. The performance is great and handling is better than any of the above that I have owned. Gas mileage is good (20 mph in town and 22-24 on highway. Have to be careful what brand of gas (87) that I use to get the above mileage. Just about everyone that sees it gives it a thumbs up!