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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  A truly great American performance car! - 2015 Ford Mustang
  By Ed A - August 1 - 8:37 am

  I bought my first Mustang GT in 1979. While the 5.0L V8 and the handling was fun, the car itself was a piece of junk. Every single part on that car squeaked or rattled. After a year, I traded it towards a VW Scirocco, a nimble little jewel of a car based on the Golf platform. Thus began a 35 year love affair with German cars, including 2 Porsches and 3 Audi S4s. But with the introduction of the 2015 S550 Mustang platform, the auto magazimes were raving that Ford had finally built a car that could compete with the best from Germany, and they were right. When I first saw my 2015 Mustang GT, I was impressed with the gorgeous sheet metal, but was skeptical that it could match the driving dynamics and build quality of my (then current) 2015 Supercharged Audi S4. I test drove the GT out of curiosity and was blown away. Everything about the car was just right. The steering had just the right amount of effort and feedback, and the shifter for the 6-speed manual was the slickest and smoothest Id ever experienced (OK, to be fair, its a German shifter and gearbox). The stock seats and driving position were just right for me, and I was surprised at how good the seats were. And of course, theres nothing like the exhaust tone of V8... throaty and deep, but not obnoxiously so. It just sounds like it means business, and with 435 HP and 415 lb-ft of torque, it means business. The car accelerates to hyper speeds with so little effort that you cant help but smile as you leave the traffic behind. But the real surprise came when I pulled onto an uneven winding country road. The new platform has fully independent suspension (finally), and it responds with confidence on uneven surfaces. Nothing can perturbed the poise of this car. I was also blown away by the interior build quality, which rivals anything from Audi or BMW. The real shock is how they can build a car like this for only $40K in GT Premium trim. This includes just about every option, including NAV, and 19" alloy wheels. The seats are not only heated, but also cooled! So you get quality, features and performance at 2/3 the price of a comparable Audi or BMW, with looks that make the others look boxy by comparison.

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  Love My Stang - Low Miles Too! - 2007 Ford Mustang
  By DPDIAMOND - July 29 - 8:59 pm

  I use my California Special GT as a toy, weekend car.. I only have 970 miles, its will be 3 years old in December 09. Only work has been oil change, and the front strut "clunker", which is a technical bulletin warranty work...I need to drive her more, car sits too much.. Love to take her out on Sunday, and let my pony run...

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  Awesome! - 2005 Ford Mustang
  By Alex - July 29 - 7:56 pm

  Ive got my Mustang less than two weeks ago, but Im having such a blast driving it. The acceleration is superb and drives comfortable in the big city since it isnt so big. I live in L.A. and drove around Santa Monica and Beverly Hills where you see pricey Ferraris, BMWs and Mercedes galore, but this 30k car caught all the attention. I also love the Shaker 1000.

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  Mustang Sally - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By Lynne Knightstep - July 29 - 3:56 pm

  My daughter and son-in-law bought this car for me, brand-new as a gift in 2000. I love this car and have lots of fun driving it. It has never had anything go wrong with it in the 9 years that I have owned it. It is a beautiful black convertible, very sleek and sporty. This is my second Mustang (owned the first model in 1965) and I highly recommend them.

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  Japan Car Fan Buys Ford-Friends in Shock - 2009 Ford Mustang
  By Car Nuntz - July 29 - 3:14 pm

  Our criteria for a car, performance, braking, handling, and comfort without breaking the bank. Plus we need to both fit (she is short and I am tall)The melted down soap designs are boring along with the performance. But our surprise and complete shock was the Mustang in California Special trim. Absolutely beautiful to look out and the build quality was equal to anything we investigated.But to our shock and surprise, the car was comfortable quiet, and performed beyond expectations. Not a sports car (watch that live rear axle) but for an everyday driver, we now race for the keys in the morning. Gas mileage hurts a little, but its hard not to step on the gas for an ear to ear grin

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  Pony Xpress - 2000 Ford Mustang
  By EGKstang - July 29 - 10:00 am

  This is my second GT Mustang, my first being a 97GT. The 99+ defiantly has more power. I love this car, the leather seats are comfortable and it is very friendly and easy to drive, lots of power too!!! Everything is easy to reach and the styling inside and out is great. More bang for your buck, you can buy a Mustang GT, mod it out and still be cheaper than a Camaro SS and blow them away. Overall, great car, I love it!

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  WooBaby - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By StangBoy - July 29 - 10:00 am

  Best car ever..next to my 97 T-Bird

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  Makes stop lights fun again! - 2018 Ford Mustang
  By Greg - July 29 - 8:59 am

  I love coming to stop lights because the sound of this engine is like a race car every time I get to go. I’ve never considered owning another Mustang since my 1966 until I drove this 2018 GT V8. It looks great both inside and out and handles very well. Quality materials. My only gripe is the controls for the seat heating is easier to select then the car climate. It’s confusing and not intuitive to lift up on a dial to change the temperature. Also, it’s easy to get lost using the steering controls when navigating the screen options. The color codes made no sense at all with one letter and digit for changing colors. Did they run out of space to spell things? I prefer the updated look of this Mustang to the Camaro (too boxy) and the Dodge Charger (still looks like a 1970 car with ridiculous LED rear end). The toggle switches are fun and my favorite is the Drag Strip mode. This car is a blast to drive, and the pony lights outside the doors are a nice touch!

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  230,000 Original motor & Counting - 1994 Ford Mustang
  By The Professor - July 28 - 1:04 pm

  I have owned my GT since 1997 arguably the most reliable American made car I have ever owned and that Ford has deisgned and manufactured. I have replace clutch and pressure plate and brakes. regular oil changes and I bought it with 15,000 miles on the odometer it now has 230,000 and counting never replaced engineit still turns head and can still giddyup!

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  My show car - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By Cricket - July 26 - 4:51 pm

  Love "Mr. Steed". He is a "Bickford Built" one-off commemorative of a 1960 GT350 with $10,000 in upgrades. I have entered him in 6 Mustang Club of America National shows and he has won first place every time.