Latest news with #S550
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Modern Collector's Guide: The Ford Mustang from 1965 to Today
Read the full story on Modern Car Collector Few cars have captured the American spirit like the Ford Mustang. As the originator of the 'pony car' segment, the Mustang remains a symbol of performance, style, and mass appeal. First introduced in April 1964, the Mustang was an instant success and has since become one of the world's longest-running and best-selling sports cars. This modern collector's guide walks through every Mustang generation, right through to the latest S650 model. The Mustang debuted in April 1964, sparking a frenzy with over 22,000 units sold on the first day. It came in hardtop, convertible, and later fastback form. Over its nearly decade-long run, the Mustang grew in size and power, peaking with the 1971–1973 models, which could be equipped with the potent 429 Cobra Jet V8. Responding to the fuel crisis, the Mustang II downsized drastically and shared a platform with the Ford Pinto. Though underpowered, it sold over a million units and earned Motor Trend's Car of the Year in 1974. Built on the Fox platform, this era balanced affordability with performance. It survived nearly 15 years, from the 2.3L four-cylinder to the revered 5.0L V8 GT. Later years introduced the LX 5.0 and SVT Cobra variants. Marking a major redesign, the SN-95 adopted sleeker lines and new modular V8s. In 1999, the 'New Edge' facelift sharpened its look. High-performance Cobras, Bullitts, and Mach 1s marked standout models. Retro styling made a comeback with this wildly successful reboot. The return of the 5.0 Coyote V8 in 2011 elevated performance, while Shelby GT500s and Boss 302s offered track-ready excitement. Global ambitions drove the S550 with independent rear suspension and turbocharged EcoBoost options. The Shelby GT350, GT350R, and 760-hp GT500 raised the bar for street-legal Mustangs. A mid-cycle update in 2018 brought refined styling and tech upgrades. Unveiled for the 2024 model year, the S650 continues Mustang's evolution. Still based on a heavily updated S550 platform, the new Mustang offers a Digital Cockpit, sharper exterior lines, and carries forward the 2.3L EcoBoost and Gen 4 Coyote 5.0L V8. A six-speed manual remains available on GT models, and the all-new 500-hp Mustang Dark Horse joins the lineup as the most track-capable 5.0L Mustang ever built. Ford's first all-electric crossover, the Mach-E, controversially wears the Mustang badge. While it doesn't replace the two-door coupe, it expands the nameplate with trims like the high-performance GT and upcoming Rally edition. First Gen (1965–73): ~3 million Mustang II (1974–78): ~1.1 million Fox Body (1979–93): ~2.6 million SN-95 (1994–04): ~1.6 million S197 (2005–14): ~1 million S550 (2015–23): ~750,000+ S650 (2024+): Production ongoing From Le Mans to Main Street, the Ford Mustang continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, the Mustang offers timeless appeal, a rich aftermarket, and a passionate global fan base. The legend lives on. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
Yahoo
04-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Modern Collector's Guide: The Ford Mustang from 1965 to Today
Read the full story on Modern Car Collector Few cars have captured the American spirit like the Ford Mustang. As the originator of the 'pony car' segment, the Mustang remains a symbol of performance, style, and mass appeal. First introduced in April 1964, the Mustang was an instant success and has since become one of the world's longest-running and best-selling sports cars. This modern collector's guide walks through every Mustang generation, right through to the latest S650 model. The Mustang debuted in April 1964, sparking a frenzy with over 22,000 units sold on the first day. It came in hardtop, convertible, and later fastback form. Over its nearly decade-long run, the Mustang grew in size and power, peaking with the 1971–1973 models, which could be equipped with the potent 429 Cobra Jet V8. Responding to the fuel crisis, the Mustang II downsized drastically and shared a platform with the Ford Pinto. Though underpowered, it sold over a million units and earned Motor Trend's Car of the Year in 1974. Built on the Fox platform, this era balanced affordability with performance. It survived nearly 15 years, from the 2.3L four-cylinder to the revered 5.0L V8 GT. Later years introduced the LX 5.0 and SVT Cobra variants. Marking a major redesign, the SN-95 adopted sleeker lines and new modular V8s. In 1999, the 'New Edge' facelift sharpened its look. High-performance Cobras, Bullitts, and Mach 1s marked standout models. Retro styling made a comeback with this wildly successful reboot. The return of the 5.0 Coyote V8 in 2011 elevated performance, while Shelby GT500s and Boss 302s offered track-ready excitement. Global ambitions drove the S550 with independent rear suspension and turbocharged EcoBoost options. The Shelby GT350, GT350R, and 760-hp GT500 raised the bar for street-legal Mustangs. A mid-cycle update in 2018 brought refined styling and tech upgrades. Unveiled for the 2024 model year, the S650 continues Mustang's evolution. Still based on a heavily updated S550 platform, the new Mustang offers a Digital Cockpit, sharper exterior lines, and carries forward the 2.3L EcoBoost and Gen 4 Coyote 5.0L V8. A six-speed manual remains available on GT models, and the all-new 500-hp Mustang Dark Horse joins the lineup as the most track-capable 5.0L Mustang ever built. Ford's first all-electric crossover, the Mach-E, controversially wears the Mustang badge. While it doesn't replace the two-door coupe, it expands the nameplate with trims like the high-performance GT and upcoming Rally edition. First Gen (1965–73): ~3 million Mustang II (1974–78): ~1.1 million Fox Body (1979–93): ~2.6 million SN-95 (1994–04): ~1.6 million S197 (2005–14): ~1 million S550 (2015–23): ~750,000+ S650 (2024+): Production ongoing From Le Mans to Main Street, the Ford Mustang continues to evolve while staying true to its roots. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned collector, the Mustang offers timeless appeal, a rich aftermarket, and a passionate global fan base. The legend lives on. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
