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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  Plan on purchasing a new engine - 1995 Ford Mustang
  By Tiff101 - July 23 - 2:00 am

  The only thing about this car is that it looks good. Other than that plan on replacing the heads or totally getting a new engine. I will never purchase a Ford again due to their lack of informing that my engine could have defects or them totally giving me the run around when I called to get my vechile fixed. I ended up replacing the engine myself because I was just a few miles over the recall amount. I have had both! Its not worth it in the long run, trust me dont let your heart buy your mind and wallet a nightmare.

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  1999 Ford Mustang Coupe - 1999 Ford Mustang
  By MustangShelly - July 23 - 2:00 am

  I bought my car used with only 400 miles on it. The only major problem I had with it was that a spark plug connection got loose and my car went dead while going 80 on IH-10. Good thing I was in the right lane and next to the sholder. Got it towed and fixed. Other maintenance has been oil changes and tire rotation. All-in-all, a great car. I have been rear-ended and have rear-ended someone else and the only damage has been bumper. The body held up nicely. Wish it was a little more roomy. My husband who is 64" has problems driving comfortably.

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  My FORD- "fix or repair daily" - 1996 Ford Mustang
  By msnurse - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Overall, I thought I had made a great purchase until I passed 30k--when the warranty was no longer valid. At 32k the transmission blew apart --thanks to a defective converter (By the way, I dont drive like a maniac--and really take good care of my cars). Needless to say, I was out almost $2k. I have just been informed that my engine needs to be rebuilt at only 100k miles. After speaking with other Ford owners, this is a common problem. Very frustrating. I have been VERY disappointed with the repair costs and problems. This car is going to the junk yard this week. Can promise you that my next car will be anything but a Ford.

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  Redfire Stang - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By Roger Rocket - July 19 - 10:00 am

  This is one of the nicest looking small coupes on the market. Enough power with the V6 to satisfy most drivers. Suspensions a bit rough but was to be expected. Gotta go with leather seating surfaces to increase comfort. Great gas mileage. Sound system wont get cranked up beyond level 4, unless you want to lose your hearing. Like the speed/volume adjustment. Limited storage space, but the fold-down rear seats give you more versatility. Cup holders are exactly where you need them and no fancy opening or fold-out functions that complicate matters. Handles real well and small enough to park just about anywhere.

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  A Mustang is the best Pony Car - 1998 Ford Mustang
  By W.C. - July 19 - 2:00 am

  . I got the v6 due to the cheaper insurance and was dissapointed with the stock exhaust system and overall performance and for around $15000 matched the hp of a gt. I got flowmaster dual exhaust,k&n air filter,Superchips computer chip, MAC underdrive pulleys,cold air induction,and a BBK throttle body and had around 216 hp and cheap insurance. The stock wheels look better than most other base model cars but should be replaced with some 17" wheels(i reccomend Cobra R wheels).. The vast amount of body kits,wheels,superchargers,and other performance enhancers also make the Mustang a good choice.

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  Better skip the automatic! - 1990 Ford Mustang
  By I_Work_For_Ford! - July 19 - 2:00 am

  I had a nice 5.0 Mustang... except the automatic transmission failed at 50,000 miles. Dealership told me it was out of warranty, so I was out of luck. $1500.00 later, I had a rebuilt transmission. Except for that and a problem with stalling (TFI ignition module) and problems with the fuel pump kicking out (impact switch in trunk) and problems with leaking headlight housings (common for Ford products) and a few other problems, the car was great to drive.

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  2006 Mustang GT - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By GH - July 16 - 12:30 pm

  I love everything about the car, for the money it cant be beat, and Ive always been a Chevy guy! (3 Z/28s). The engine has a sweet note above 3000 rpm and pulls solid to 6000. The most surprising thing has been the great gas mileage, its much better than I expected. I think that there is tons of room for simple, effective performance gains and in a few years 400-500 HP S197s will be everywhere, Shelbys not withstanding,

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  Man, What a ride - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Sandman - July 15 - 8:16 am

  I have had my 2005 GT for three months and 6500 miles, and man what a ride. This is my fourth Mustang, having had a 67, 69 and 74, this is by far the best. I live on the north coast of California, The roads here are built for this car, lots of curve and twists along Highway 101 and through the redwoods put this car to the test and man, what a ride. I recently took a trip to San Francisco and got 23 miles to a gallon, and I was not driving slow. In and out of traffic the car is a blast to drive and it does get a lot of looks and thumbs up from folks along the way. Would recommend this car to anyone who takes pleasure in driving.

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  97 Ford Mustang - 1997 Ford Mustang
  By Mike Hubbell - July 11 - 2:00 am

  Overall it is a very good car. I enjoy driving it bacause it handles well and looks great. What it lacks in luxury and comfort it makes up for in fun and flash, but a second cup holder would have been nice. I will say I had to do a few minor repairs. Twice I have had coolant leaks that were pretty major work. Other than that it was just the usual belts and plugs kind of repair. I also recently had to replace an ignition coil. Overall it was a pretty reliable car.

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  A real head-turner! - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By barjon - July 8 - 12:36 pm

  I have owned mine for one week now, and the car is absolutely fantastic. I was surprised to find that, at 64" tall, I fit very comfortably behind the wheel of this Mustang. Fit and finish are excellent and the V6 with 5- speed automatic is smooth with plenty of power. I am amazed at my gas mileage so far, averaging 20 mpg around town, and 26 mpg on long highway trips. Thats a little more than the EPA ratings. Im turning heads everywhere I drive it, too!