The Ford Mustang defined the pony car segment in 1964 and was a runaway sales success. It helped create a niche that exploded in popularity with the Camaro, Firebird, Barracuda, Cougar, Javelin, and Challenger. They're all gone now, leaving the Mustang with no direct competition, at least for now.
The Mustang GT comes with a 300-hp V8 and is an absolute hoot to drive, making all the right sounds, hanging onto corners tenaciously, and delivering thrilling acceleration performance. The American pony car has never been better than the current Mustang GT.
While its styling is retro inspired, the Mustang is a thoroughly modern car.
The Ford Mustang is an American success story. It holds true to an idea that still appeals to people of all ages, decades after the original was launched; 44 years after it created an automotive niche, the Mustang has returned to its roots and it's better than ever.
The current Mustang features classic design cues that have defined Mustangs since the 1960s: C-scoops in the sides, three-element tail lamps and a galloping horse badge in the center of the grille. Its menacing shark-like nose is reminiscent of the 1967-70 models.
The modern Mustang is based on the same mechanical platform as the Jaguar S-Type, albeit with some cost-trimming measures such as its live-axle rear suspension.
The Mustang interior is as blatantly throwback as the exterior, but not as well done. It's sporty appearance and straightforward in function, but materials quality is lacking.
The Ford Mustang looks and feels like an all-American car, and that's a good thing. It's quick and fun to drive and offers combination of style, performance, and handling that's hard to beat for the money. The V6 Deluxe is a stylish, sporty cruiser. The GT and Shelby GT are serious performance cars. And the Shelby GT500 raises it to near Corvette performance levels.