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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  What a Disappointment - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Phil R - December 18 - 1:40 pm

  I bought this V6 5 speed as a replacement for a 2002 V6 5 speed that I really love. (I still have the 2002, now driven by my son.) The 05 is a huge disappointment: the drive train constantly knocks, clunks, growls, and whines. (The 02 does none of this). The dealer agreed that it is bad; replaced the transmission with no improvement, and now tells me its normal and Ill just have to live with it. Maybe the automatics are better, but DO NOT buy this car with a manual transmission unless you like lots of noise.

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  Mustang is Finally Back - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By 05stangster - December 17 - 10:36 pm

  I havent liked one Mustang style since the 69 (which was my high school car). Saw the 05 GT Premium, drove it, bought it. Great car for the money. Plenty of power, rides nice, excellent cornering, great sound system inside and out. I average. about 19mpg (a lot in town) which I think is incredible for 300 hp! Mine is torch red, red leather, IUPs, automatic and FAST! Some of the reviews show disapointment - get real. This is a 300 hp car that looks awesome and is worth every penny! Buy one, you wont be disappointed!

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  Fun, fun, fun - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By 16 year old - December 17 - 10:00 am

  I Love My 1998 Mustang, I espcially love The Looks I Get And The Affordable Prices

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  A Pound for Pound Bargain - 2017 Ford Mustang
  By LeeH1068 - December 12 - 11:44 pm

  My overall rating would have been higher had the V8 engine been available with a shutdown feature at highway speeds to increase overall mileage. The Corvette has it. I bought the car 9/7 and put 10K miles on it by 3/1. It came with the 265/35/20 tires and they really hold the road. Replacements will be in the close to $300 each range but they have a 500 wear rating and roll out smooth. The pre-settings on the driver power seat allows for easy exit and entrance. The interior is well done and high quality. The car is surprisingly quiet with top up or down. I bought the Mustang because I need as much trunk space as possible for my trips and unlike the hardtop convertibles, the Mustang top folds onto itself with no intrusion into an almost full size trunk. The top goes up and down quietly and fast. I downgraded the Navigation system because there is no way to alphabetize your Favorites or eliminate previous destinations individually. There is a myriad of options in the gauges and lighting features. The engine data that is displayed is far beyond the average driver. The car is a bargain in todays market. Options included automatic with paddle shifters, Nav system, tire pkg, upgraded interior, 120,000 mile warranty.

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  2006 Mustang GT Manual - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By FalconDude - December 12 - 4:10 pm

  So far I have only 325 miles on the odometer and the car is still under the break-in period. There are few major changes from the 05 model. But my car has two: the new tungsten grey paint and the 18" wheels. Both are a wonderful addition. Overall, the car feels solid and rattle-free over bumps. The new 18" wheels and slightly adjusted suspension do a reasonable job of dealing with roadway ruts and potholes. The new grey paint is metallic and highly reflective. The exhaust note is worth the entire price of admission. The 5 speed manual is a joy to shift and is the best manual Ive ever owned or used. Rear seat is fairly cramped, but I expected worse.

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  06 Windveil blue GT - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Randy Smith - December 9 - 8:16 am

  My first Mustang. It is incredible. The classic styling of it reminds my wife of her first car, which was a 65 Mustang! We are incredibly happy. ItÂ’s been washed and waxed truly detailed. Its beautiful.

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  SVT - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By cool kid - December 6 - 10:00 am

  NIce Car, its a mustang people, buy it. Old School. Enjoy Life

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  2006 Mustang GT - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By JJP - December 5 - 5:50 pm

  It is the under $30,000 bargain of the decade. Great performance, stunning looks, very comfortable on long trips and 26 mpg on the highway.

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  Overall performance of this car. - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By ZamAir - December 5 - 2:10 pm

  I just purchased my new 06 convertible Mustang. All black! This car is amazing. Drives like sports car and the same time feels like you are driving an old Cadillac. I was considering getting the V6, but after driving the V8 with manual transmission, I was convinced that the V8 was my answer for my new toy! (hands down). If youre thinking about getting this car as an extra car for fun driving then I would recommend the manual V8. If you enjoy music and have an extra few dollars then get the Shaker1000.

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  Awesome Ride! - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By JH - December 3 - 3:43 am

  Always wanted a Mustang convertible! I have a Shelby Mustang so performance & fun is important. The price & insurance was surprisingly low. I lost my company car due to cost containment and never shed a tear with this as my personal replacement for transportation to and from work.