Ford Mustang Shelby

The Ford Mustang’s legacy is populated by models with diverse qualities. The 2021 Mustang will still come as a coupe or a convertible, and its balance of high-performance offerings will remain full. Whether it’s the turbocharged four-cylinder EcoBoost or the V-8-powered GT, every version of the original pony can be armed with track weaponry to challenge its Chevy Camaro or Dodge Challenger counterparts. The Ford's bodywork is beautiful. It’s vast personalization options, and practical interior make it desirable to folks who care about cool and sporty everyday transportation. And that's why the Mustang continues to be an icon: it offers something for everyone.

We think the Mustang is best appreciated with its sonorous 5.0-liter V-8, which requires either the GT model or the new Mach 1. The latter has an additional 20 horsepower (480 total) versus the regular GT models, and it has performance equipment pulled from the Shelby GT350 and GT500 that makes it more engaging to drive. Unfortunately, this puts its starting price near $54,000, so we'd recommend the regular GT coupe. Sticking with the standard manual transmission, we'd opt for the GT Performance package that adds upgraded Brembo front brakes, a limited-slip differential, stickier summer tires, unique chassis tuning, and more.

The standard turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder has enough punch to shame V-8 Mustangs of old. Likewise, the optional HighPerformance package adds a more melodic and responsive EcoBoost engine. The GT models are motivated by a 460-hp V-8. Both of these compelling engines pair with a standard six-speed manual transmission or a 10-speed automatic that makes the Mustang quicker than before. The V-8 version is also available with a transformative package (called Performance Pack Level 2) that adds trackready equipment courtesy of the Shelby GT350. The optional EcoBoost Handling package also delivers racetrack readiness to the fourcylinder coupe. This latest Mustang generation brought with it a much-needed independent rear suspension, which replaced the archaic solid rear axle. The switch-up improves its handling and takes its ride quality to another level. The Mustang's modernized chassis delivers a comfortable and controlled driving experience. For added sportiness, there is an optional Performance package for EcoBoost and GT models. The electrically assisted steering is light and nicely weighted in the other two. The Mustang's brake pedal has a firm feel that feels sensitive in stop-and-go traffic. It’s easier to apply smoothly at higher speeds.

The most efficient Mustang is the turbocharged four-cylinder with the 10-speed automatic, and 21 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. The V-8–powered Mustang earned ratings of 15 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. In our testing, the four-banger with the manual transmission returned 24 mpg—7 fewer than its EPA rating. The V-8 with the automatic saw 24 mpg matching its EPA number.

The Mustang interior is better with an evolutionary design that manages to be fully functional and livable. It's available with premium heated and cooled front seats. Stellar performance and impressive cargo space makes the Mustang a high-performance vehicle. The back seat stows by pulling a strap and folds easily by hand. Should you need to transport up to 12 carry-on bags, the Mustang can do so. The Ford wins with the biggest center-console bin among its competitors.