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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  GT PREMIUM WITH PERFORMANCE PACK - 2017 Ford Mustang
  By Eric Prochnow - July 28 - 8:37 pm

  I bought this car in December of 16 after a wait of over 2 years. This is my third Mustang i have owned in the last 35 years. This car has really matured since my old 86 gt I had years ago. The car is larger and drives larger than both my 86 and my 02 GT I had to sell before buying this Mustang, yet it far out handles both of them (my 02 GT had about 4k in aftermarket upgrades in both engine mods and suspension). The only real complaint about the car is the ingress and egress for me. I am 64" and you have to be fairly flexible to get in and out. Once you are in though, the car fits like a glove, the shifter falling right into place, the steering wheel can be adjusted to taste and everything is very simple to use. The standard leather seats are outstanding, and after taking a 6-1/2 hour trip up to Napa from So. Cal, the seats gave my wife and I plenty of support and the heating and cooling feature is great! As for the performance...my mustang is plenty quick, but I dont drive it to be a drag racer. I wanted a true GT. The handling is more than adequate with the performance package, and the six piston Brembos are superlative. There is a reason why Mustangs have been around for over 50 years. Ford has obviously found a formula of performance, comfort, and style and blend it together in a fashion that other American car manufacturers try to emulate, but always come up short in one or more of these categories, missing the mark on Fords pony car and what it represents.

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  Powered by Ford - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By chris d - July 26 - 5:56 am

  I traded in my 03 GT for this one. Man let me tell you something, good call! Its black, fast, manual tranny, 18 inch rims stock. The cockpit is truly a thing of beauty. The old late 60s look is a real head turner. I get looks and comments all the time, from the young and old. This car blows my 03 GT out of the water. The power throws you back into the seat!

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  Horse Whipped - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Jim Elsasser - July 25 - 4:43 pm

  This is my 8th Mustang since 1972. Its the best one yet. A thrill to drive and I love the sound of the exhaust. I bought an 05 V6 Mustang automatic and just couldnt stop thinking about the GT. Decided to trade in the 05 and havent looked back since.

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  NEW CAR - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By elysse - July 22 - 7:06 pm

  Just got it. I love it except I am alredy having a problem with the electric. The airbag gauge is flashing on and off. Hopefully its not a a bad omen; otherwise the car is SOOO fun, and fast.

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  Incredible Triple Black GT! - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By John Catalanotto - July 21 - 3:56 am

  I ordered my triple black GT back on June 15th and picked it up today, December 3rd. I have to tell you it was worth the wait, I can not believe that money for money there is a better car available today. The purr of the engine, 18” bullets, leather interior, 500 watt 6 disc stereo, My Color dash and more. If you are thinking about one, stop thinking and go get it. I promise you, you will not be disappointed.

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  Awesome Mode of Transportation - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By mdawes - July 19 - 5:43 pm

  I find everything about this vehicle is very well done. From the V6 engine to the morphing of the classic Mustang design and a 21st century design. Very fun to drive

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  Love my Pony! - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Red Pony - July 15 - 2:00 am

  I have had my car for a year & still love driving it every chance I get. I wouldnt trade it for any other ragtop out there. The ride is a little choppy at times, but that adds to the sports car feel. It gets great gas mileage on the highway for a V8 (23-24), much better than around town (16-18) so of course I take it out on the highway any chance I get. It looks great & draws attention everywhere it goes. Who cant resist a bright red Mustang ragtop?

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  awesome - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Ramirez - July 13 - 6:40 pm

  i think the car is awesome in pretty much every way. i think you should make it just like the older cars (mustangs) because there is nothing like a classic car

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  Seans 2000 GT - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By SMT - July 12 - 10:00 am

  Like the car, but it has the fake looking air scoops and, like another reviewers, the frame on the drivers door has waves around the windows. I probably wouldnt buy another Mustang. Ironically, had a Camaro previously and I had more compliments and looks with that car. The car has a lot of power, but you really pay for it at the gas pump. When gas hit $2.10 a gallon, I almost had to take a second job to keep the guzzler happy. Also having problems with the low coolant light; keeps coming on when the coolant reservoir is full. Wasnt too crazy about the dealer...trying to tell me what colors and options I wanted. Whats with that too?

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  great car great price - 1998 Ford Mustang
  By michaelalec84 - July 12 - 2:00 am

  The ford mustang is an excellent car at an even better price in my opinion. Ive had mine for a little over a year now and it has given me no major problems whatsoever. The power is good coming from the 3.8 liter v6 and the comfort of the front seats is excellent. i would recommned a mustng of my type to anyone who wants something powerful, cheap, good looking and fun to drive.