Here’s What I Loved & Hated About the CHEAPEST V8 Ford Mustang g After Owning It This Year;
Owning a car is an experience filled with excitement and lessons learned. After spending seven months with the cheapest V8 Ford Mustang on the market, it’s time to reflect on the highs and lows of this iconic vehicle. From performance to comfort, let’s delve into what makes this Mustang a worthy contender and what aspects left something to be desired.
Buying the Mustang: The Decision Process;
Purchasing a vehicle is often a balance between budget and features. The Ford Mustang, particularly the V8 variant, has long been a symbol of American muscle. After shopping around, we managed to snag this beauty for about $42,000, which is a competitive price considering many new Mustangs are priced well above $55,000.
The 2024 Ford Mustang GT comes equipped with a 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine, producing an impressive 486 horsepower. This powertrain is part of the new S650 generation, which offers exciting performance options. While the sticker price was around $47,000, deals can be found , especially as the market stabilizers.
Performance: A Powerhouse on the Road;
The heart of the Mustang is undoubtedly its engine. The Coyote V8 delivers exhilarating performance that makes every drive memorable. Mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, the car provides a smooth and responsive driving experience. While a six-speed manual would have been my personal choice, the automatic has proven to be more practical for everyday use.
Living in Colorado, where elevation can impact performance, we still found the Mustang to be a dominant force on the road. Despite the loss of horsepower at high altitudes, the Mustang consistently outperformed competitors in drag racing scenarios, including a manual Dark Horse variant. The car’s ability to handle the quarter-mile with ease underscored its prowess.
Interior Comfort: A Mixed Bag;
While the performance of the Mustang is commendable, the interior leaves room for improvement. The overall design feels a bit dated, with an abundance of hard black plastic that detracts from a premium feel. The standard interior lacks the upscale materials found in higher trims, making it feel somewhat cut-rate.
However, the Mustang does come with some modern conveniences like dual-zone automatic climate control and heated seats. These features add a touch of luxury, but for those seeking a high-end experience, the base model might fall short.
Daily Usability: Surprising Storage and Fuel Economy;
One unexpected highlight of the Mustang is its daily usability. Many people associate sports cars with limited practicality, but the Mustang offers a surprisingly spacious trunk. The lift-over height is reasonable, and it even includes a spare tire. For added convenience, the rear seats can fold down for larger items.
Fuel economy is another area where the Mustang excels. During a recent road trip, we achieved over 30 miles per gallon, which is impressive for a car boasting nearly 500 horsepower. The ability to use regular 87 octane fuel makes it even more appealing for everyday driving.
Ride Quality: A Comfortable Cruiser;While the Mustang is often perceived as a performance car, its ride quality is more cruiser than racer. The suspension is designed for comfort rather than aggressive handling, making it an excellent choice for daily commutes or long drives. The car’s soft suspension absorbs bumps well , providing a smooth driving experience.
However, this comfort comes at a price. While it excels in everyday driving, attempting to push the Mustang through tight corners can lead to a noticeable lean and wobble. If you’re not planning on tracking the vehicle, this characteristic might not be a Significant failure.
Performance Packages: Worth the Investment;
Many buyers may wonder whether to opt for performance packages. In my experience, the standard Mustang offers a fantastic driving experience without the added costs associated with performance upgrades. Unless you’re regularly taking your vehicle to the track, the base model provides 99% of the fun at a fraction of the price.
The adjustable exhaust system is one feature I would recommend. It offers various settings, allowing drivers to customize the sound from quiet to track mode. The roar of the V8 is exhilarating, making every drive enjoyable.
Resale Value: The Reality Check;
After months of ownership and approximately 4,300 miles, we made the decision to sell the Mustang back to the dealer. Although we lost around $5,000 in value, this is not uncommon for new cars. The enjoyment we experienced during our seven time with the Mustang far outweighed the financial hit.
It’s important to note that the Mustang remains a great value in the current market. With the competition dwindling—such as the discontinuation of the Camaro and Challenger—the Mustang stands tall as an iconic choice for enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts: Would I Recommend the Mustang;
In conclusion, the 2024 Ford Mustang GT V8 has been a delightful experience. The engine performance is nothing short of exhilarating, and the car is surprisingly practical for daily use. While the interior may not feel premium, the overall driving experience, coupled with its affordability, makes it a worthy contender in the sports car segment.
As we move on to new adventures, I can confidently say that the Mustang has left a lasting impression. If you’re looking for a fast, stylish, and daily-drivable car, the base Mustang is an excellent choice. Its unique combination of power and comfort makes it a vehicle worth considering for any car enthusiast