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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  03 Mach 1 - 2003 Ford Mustang
  By chiseled - July 16 - 2:00 am

  This car is too much fun! Definitely a head-turner, especially when they see a woman driving it :)

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  Best overall Mustang Ive owned - 2010 Ford Mustang
  By jbrillo - July 16 - 1:44 am

  Im no stranger to Mustangs as this is the 4th Mustang GT Ive owned. This car may lack the grunt of a Camaro SS, but it makes up for it in every other department. The interior is excellent in quality, ergonomics & aesthetics. Its the most quiet & comfortable cabin of any Mustang Ive owned. I would not have paid extra for the My Color feature, but it came with the car. I do have to admit though, now that I have it I really enjoy it. The handling is phenomenal. You can really wring the car out even with the traction control on. The power is not bad. Its more than enough for the average driver. However, as a performance enthusiast, I wish it were more competitive with a Camaro SS.

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  Fun Car - 1997 Ford Mustang
  By Vince - July 16 - 12:37 am

  I bought this car at the beginning of 2008 and I had no problems in the snow. During the following year I drove it as my daily driver in blizzards and snow storms and I didnt get in any accidents. To those afraid of rear wheel drive, just be careful and keep the drifting to impress your friends and your sweetheart at a reasonable speed in the snow and youll be fine. I drove a year and a half with very little maintenance. I had to replace the power window regulator, but other than that I dont recall any work I had to do other than maintenance until I reached about 140,000 and I found oil in the coolant reservoir(head gasket) so I upgraded to the more dependable, and older 5.0 V8

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  If you find a nice one, snag it - 1994 Ford Mustang
  By Vinnie - July 16 - 12:20 am

  This would be my second mustang. My first car was a 93 celica which was ok but proof that japanese cars are no better than american ones with the 3rd engine that had pinging, leaking head gasket, plenty of burned oil, and more at 75,000 ish miles with the 1.8 corolla engine which is supposedly a reliable engine. The next one was a 97 Mustang V6 with the t-5 5 speed manual trans. The only work I had to do was I had to change the window actuator and that was about it. I sold it when I found oil in the coolant(the dreaded head gasket) at 147,000 miles and said bye to it. Now I have a 94 GT with a performance intake manifold, intake, exhaust, underdrive pulleys, and plenty more and its FUN&fast!

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  Local Boy Makes Good - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By BigBeau - July 11 - 5:13 pm

  Took delivery in early January and due to the seasonal weather conditions had to wait 3 weeks to drop the top. I have had limited opportunity to really go through this vehicle but, as is, it runs like a scalded pup. The suspension and handling exceed expectations. All of the amenities that came with this car are substantial. As the aftermarket for the Mustang is so vast, Im looking forward to shopping for any "personal touch" items that I might add to this light blue pony. At age 55, the only thing I might consider right away would be installing a defibrillator -- oh yeah, its that much fun to drive. Tops down, everybody!

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  Like this car a lot - 2006 Ford Mustang
  By pappydave - July 11 - 8:08 am

  I currently have 31,000 miles on this car and it has never been back to the dealer. I have been doing oil changes and routine maintenance. The only complaint I have is the Road noise seems a little loud to me. I get 25 MPG driving to work - mixed city/rural, and got 28 on a long trip on the freeway.

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  Get yours fast before they are gone! - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By DougsMach1 - July 11 - 2:00 am

  This is my third Mustang and the 2004 Mach 1 is the best yet. My 67 289 coupe and 97 Cobra(trade-in) were fun but the Mach 1 with its "Shaker" hood scoop and other exterior features mixed with the performance and ride quality make this car a great buy and a pleasure to drive. For me, no regrets. So far I have driven the Mach 1 350+miles and it is getting smoother and stronger with every turn of the key. I have not experienced any problems with the Mach 1.

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  Mustangs rule - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By Verno - July 11 - 2:00 am

  This Car Is BOSS !! I puit some pulleys and exhaust on mine and it hauls ass

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  A joy to drive - 2004 Ford Mustang
  By Fenderrulez - July 11 - 2:00 am

  I am definatly biased I have wanted a Mustang convertable since the first time I saw one. I cannot say I am dissapointed in my 2004 ragtop. Driving is now much more fun. Even the trip to work at 5:30 am is enjoyable.

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  2010 Mustang Convertible - 2010 Ford Mustang
  By Joanne - July 10 - 3:20 pm

  I just got this 2010 vehicle on Monday, July 6, 2009. I have always wanted a yellow convertible since I was 5 years old. Im now 71 and I must say my Sunset Gold Mustang is all I hoped it would be. Its like driving a big computer, so much to learn about the car. However, it is very comfortable and easy to drive. It has a lot of pick-up for a V6 and I love the Sirrus Radio. I really dont know what else to say escept its the fun car to drive, especially with the top down whether you are 20 or a Senior Citizen.