Used Ford Mustang Quick Facts
- If you’re looking for a Ford Mustang that gives you the most bang for your buck, you’ll want to look at 2020 to 2024 models that are well-maintained with low mileage, preferably the GT trim.
- In continuous production since 1964, Ford has sold over 10 million Mustang cars.
- With 815 horsepower, the 2025 Mustang GTD is the most powerful Mustang to date.
The lure of the Ford Mustang is strong for car enthusiasts of all stripes. One of the oldest continuously produced models in automotive history, the 60-year-old nameplate carries a rich history of trendsetting style and evocative lineage challenged only by a few rivals like the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger. The instantly recognizable Ford Mustang has left an indelible mark on culture, playing memorable roles in films and television shows, including “Bullitt,” “Charlie’s Angels,” and “Gone in 60 Seconds.” They also represent a level of attainability that eludes some higher-priced competitors. Spare parts are readily available for all but the rarest of limited-edition models, and maintenance is relatively affordable given the model’s potent performance levels. With a wide variety of flavors, styles, and generations available, the only question is where to begin your quest for a secondhand ‘Stang. We help you determine the best years for buying a used Ford Mustang.
- What Is the Best Model-Year Used Ford Mustang?
- Ford Mustang by Generation: Which Should You Buy?
- Is the Ford Mustang a Good Car?
- How Fast Is the Ford Mustang?
- Does the Ford Mustang Offer All-Wheel Drive?
- Does the Ford Mustang Offer a Convertible?
- What Are the Most Desirable Years for the Ford Mustang?
- What Are the Years to Avoid for the Ford Mustang?
What Is the Best Model-Year Used Ford Mustang?
Asking which Ford Mustang is the best is like asking who is the greatest rock star of all time. As a result, we put forward a couple of candidates based on price, performance, and availability.
If you’re looking for a car that gives you the most bang for your buck, you’ll want to look at a well-maintained, low-mileage 2020 to 2024 Mustang, preferably the GT trim. These years saw considerable improvement over the early-2015-to-2019 sixth-generation cars, including the rebirth of some limited-edition high-performance names like the Mach 1 and GT500.
We’d also stick with the normally aspirated V6 and V8 engines. While the sixth-generation Mustang’s turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder delivers impressive power for its size, it doesn’t have the growl of the V8, and it has had its share of problems, including head gasket leaks and issues with carbon buildup.
If you’re on a tight budget, the fifth generation makes a good choice. We’d opt for a 2011 or newer model, as these models have significantly improved engines, transmissions, and styling.
Suppose you’re just looking for an inexpensive, fun car to play with that’s not your daily driver. In that case, any V8-powered Mustang from the third generation between 1987 and 1993 is a favorite, with well-maintained models quickly gaining value as future collectibles.
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Ford Mustang by Generation: Which Should You Buy?
Seventh Generation: 2024-Current
The seventh-generation Mustang mixes the old with the new, retaining the 5.0-liter V8 and 6-speed manual while adding new features like a one-piece, fully digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen. Available as a coupe and convertible, the seventh-generation Mustang offers a choice of engines and trims, including the base model powered by a 315-hp 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, the V8-powered GT and Dark Horse, and the monstrous new GTD trim featuring an 815-hp supercharged 5.2-liter V8.
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Sixth Generation: 2015-2023
The sixth-generation Mustang is one of our favorites. Available as a coupe or convertible, it features several performance upgrades addressing previous criticism, such as the addition of an independent rear suspension, while maintaining more traditional features like analog gauges and some cool retro styling cues. We also like that this generation offers advanced driver-assist systems, like forward collision warning, a blind-spot monitor, and adaptive cruise control.
Buyers can choose between a 310-hp EcoBoost 4-cylinder, a 300-hp 3.7-liter V6, and a 435-hp 5.0-liter V8. Later in the model run, Ford dropped the V6, gave the V8 more power, and revived some high-performance names, including the Bullitt, Mach 1, and 760-hp Shelby GT500. Ford continues to offer a 6-speed manual on all trims, with a 10-speed automatic as an option.
And lest you think Ford’s pony car prioritizes performance over comfort, a glance at the available features should quickly disavow that notion. Among the more notable upgrades are GPS navigation, a 1,000-watt B&O audio system by Bang & Olufsen, rain-sensing wipers, automatic high-beam headlights, and ventilated front seats.
Performance upgrades vary by trim and include items like Brembo brakes, adaptive dampers, a limited-slip rear differential, a gauge package, and Recaro sport seats.
Model-Year Changes
2023: Ford drops the Shelby GT500 from the last year for the sixth-generation Mustang.
2022: Along with some new cosmetic add-ons, two new editions debut: the GT500 Heritage and EcoBoost Coastal. The GT and Mach 1 V8s lose a few horsepower.
2021: Ford’s Co-Pilot360 becomes standard, the Mach1 debuts, and the Bullitt and GT350 trims disappear.
2020: The 760-hp Shelby GT500 and a new high-performance package for the EcoBoost 2.3-liter engine arrive. Wi-Fi connectivity is now standard.
2019: Manual Mustangs gain rev-matching technology, a new 1,000-watt B&O audio system debuts, and the Bullitt trim reappears.
2018: The Mustang receives a styling refresh, a new 10-speed automatic transmission, and a retuned suspension. The V6 gets dropped from the lineup, the 5.0-liter V8 gains more power, and Ford offers a new configurable digital dash option.
2017: New features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the previously optional Track Pack for the Shelby GT350 is now standard.
2016: The GT350 debuts.
See 2015-2023 Ford Mustang models for sale near you
Fifth Generation: 2005-2014
The fifth-generation Mustang is a vast improvement over the fourth-generation car. Wider, longer, with a stiffer body and cool retro styling cues, this is the generation we’d shoot for if working with a limited budget.
The V6 and V8 engines remain the sole choices, although the displacement for both changes halfway through the run. Prior to 2011, the base Mustang uses a 4.0-liter V6 rated at 210 hp, while the GT employs a 4.6-liter V8 good for 315 hp. After 2011, the V6 changes to 3.7 liters and 305 hp, while the V8 upgrades to 5.0 liters and 412 hp.
Transmission choices in the early years include a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic, which are replaced by 6-speed transmissions near the end of the fifth generation’s run.
Trims for this generation include the base Premium, V8-powered GT, SVT, Boss 302, and Shelby GT.
Model-Year Changes
2014: The Boss 302 is dropped, and the GT500’s horsepower climbs to 662.
2013: The Shelby GT500’s V8 gains a supercharger, boosting output to 650 hp. The 5.0-liter V8 also gains more power, and new options include a Track Apps package and upgraded audio options.
2012: The 444-hp Boss 302 debuts, along with a new selectable steering system with modes for Sport, Comfort, and Standard.
2011: Two new engines debut: the 3.7-liter V6 and 5.0-liter V8. Both offer new 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions, with the V6 receiving a limited-slip differential as standard. Also new are improvements to the Mustang’s suspension, steering, and body rigidity.
2010: The Mustang gets a major makeover, touting an aggressive new front end, improved interior materials, new features and options, and the addition of electronic stability control.
2009: A panoramic fixed glass roof joins the option sheet.
2008: The GT and GT500KR join the lineup. New options include HID headlights and a light package, while side airbags are now standard.
2007: New features include available heated front seats and navigation. All radios gain satellite radio and an auxiliary input jack.
2006: V6 models offer the Pony Package, which includes upgraded suspension, wheels, fog lamps, and traction control.
See 2005-2014 Ford Mustang models for sale near you
The Ford Mustang Early Years: Generations One Through Four
Fourth Generation: 1994-2004
Mustang bodies enjoyed a major redesign, and during this period, Ford celebrated its 300 millionth vehicle in the form of a 2004 Mustang GT Convertible 40th Anniversary Edition. This time frame also saw the demise of the Mustang’s closest competitors: the Pontiac Firebird and Chevrolet Camaro — the latter eventually returning after a 7-year retirement.
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Third Generation: 1979-1993
Mustang models saw a resurgence of crowd-pleasing power and were built on Ford’s Fox platform, which was shared by myriad models, including the Fairmont, the Thunderbird, and the Granada. This era saw the debut of the fabled 5.0 engine designation and the Special Vehicles Operation (SVO) version, powered by an unorthodox turbocharged 4-cylinder.
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Second Generation: 1974-1978
The Mustang II arose in reaction to the fuel crisis. These small-bodied cars were based on the unloved Pinto platform and are considered among the least desirable Mustang cars in history.
First Generation: 1964 1/2-1973
The Mustang was built on the Falcon platform, and among the most collectible early models is the 1965 Shelby 350, which packed a 306-hp 289-cubic-inch V8. The latter part of this period saw a dramatic increase in size, weight, and engine displacement, exemplified by the 1971 Boss 351, which was available with the rare 429 Super Cobra Jet engine.
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Is the Ford Mustang a Good Car?
The Ford Mustang is a proven performer, with models from the fifth (2005-2014) and sixth generations (2015-2023) proving particularly reliable. We’d recommend a 2018 or newer for better engine and transmission choices for the sixth generation. If you’re shopping for a fifth-generation Mustang, opt for a 2011 or newer for the same reason.
How Fast Is the Ford Mustang?
The record for the fastest production Mustang belongs to the new Mustang GTD. It can sprint to 60 mph in under three seconds, has a top speed of 202 mph, and joins an exclusive club of cars to lap the famed Nürburgring in under seven seconds. Other notable runners-up include the Shelby GT350 and GT500, Boss 302, Mach 1, and SVT. Even the stock GT can turn a zero-to-60-mph time between four and five seconds, depending on the year.
Does the Ford Mustang Offer All-Wheel Drive?
The Mustang is a rear-drive-only vehicle.
Does the Ford Mustang Offer a Convertible?
Except for the second generation, Ford has always offered a convertible option for the Mustang.
What Are the Most Desirable Years for the Ford Mustang?
The sixth generation is probably the most desirable due to its numerous trim ranges and special editions, advanced safety systems, and overall design. Among the older models, the 1987-and-later third-generation years have gained a loyal following, especially the V8 models.
What Are the Years to Avoid for the Ford Mustang?
The second generation is the least desirable model, followed by the early third-gen cars (prior to 1987). The fourth generation is also not highly praised. Although they do have some cool styling and horsepower figures, they often suffer from quality issues involving the body, interior parts, and transmissions.
If you’re shopping for something more recent, the 2015-2016 Mustang cars with the 2.3-liter engine have some issues, including numerous recalls. To see a full list of recalls covering any year Mustang, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.
I had a 68 289 V-8 with 3 speed on the floor and my friend had a 289 straight 6 with 3 speed on the floor. When I was teenager and my first experience driving in Seattle in that 68 Mustang… I loves the hills in down town seattle… I could catch air…. or racing a porsche 911 on westlake and going into a four wheel drift around the corners. The porsche won due to the fact I had to lock it up into a sideways skid stop because people in the cross walk, the porsche just grabbed another gear since they had just stepped out of his way. I think when I left seattle to go back to eastern washington I got a police escort until I lost them…. lol
Um Doug? I think you mis printed something…You stated that your friend had a “289 straight 6″…just think about what you just said…
“The Mustang started with a $2,300 sticker price and a 170-cu-in V8” Wrong. It was a six cylinder..
I LOVE my 2004 Mustang GT Convertible, & my 2006 Mustang Special Edition “Bumble Bee”, a former Hertz Rental Car. My GT has only 57,000 on it. I’ve owned a 2000 Camaro Z-28 Convertible, & a 2002 Pontiac Trans Am, but they BOTH had continual issues & visits to the dealers.