Tag: mustang

May 15

Seeking a Classier Alternative to a Ford Mustang? Explore These GT Cars

 

Introduction to GT Cars

GT cars seamlessly blend practicality with style, offering a refined alternative to the robust Ford Mustang. While the Mustang is often celebrated for its grand touring credentials, including a spacious trunk, comfortable cabin, rear seats, powerful front-mounted engine, and rear-wheel drive, some luxury-focused travelers might seek a more prestigious badge. Fortunately, several posh grand tourers can fulfill this desire without significantly exceeding the cost of a new Mustang.

Affordable Luxury GT Alternatives

For those desiring a luxury grand tourer without a hefty price tag, several excellent options are available:

BMW 4 Series (F32 Generation) The F32 BMW 4 Series coupe is a solid alternative to the Mustang. While the 435i trim’s 300-horsepower 3.0L inline six-cylinder may not match the Mustang GT’s 480-horsepower 5.0L V8, its 4.5-second sprint to 60 mph ensures an exhilarating drive. Additionally, a 2015 BMW 435i xDrive is valued at around $17,000, making it an affordable choice.

Audi S5 (B8 Generation) The pre-2012 B8 Audi S5 features a naturally aspirated 4.2L FSI V8, providing a throaty V8 experience akin to the Mustang. With 354 horsepower and a price well under $15,000, the B8 S5 stands out as a cost-effective yet powerful alternative.

A Jaguar XK from the X150 generation shows off its GT car fascia.
An X150 Jaguar XK | National Motor Museum, Heritage Images via Getty Images

Opulent GT Choices

For those willing to invest a bit more, these grand tourers offer unmatched luxury and performance:

Jaguar XK (X150 Generation) The X150 Jaguar XK is perhaps the epitome of opulence, boasting a 4.2L V8 engine, with a supercharged variant available. Although it lacks a manual transmission, the post-facelift models feature 5.0L engines similar to those in Mustang GTs, combining power with elegance.

Maserati GranTurismo For the bold, the first-generation Maserati GranTurismo offers a thrilling drive with its 454-horsepower V8 and iconic trident badge. While maintenance costs can be high, the allure of owning a Maserati for less than the price of a new Mustang GT is undeniable.

Conclusion

While the Ford Mustang remains a strong contender in the GT segment, these alternatives offer luxury and performance for discerning drivers. Whether it’s the affordable elegance of the BMW 4 Series, the robust Audi S5, the luxurious Jaguar XK, or the daring Maserati GranTurismo, there’s a grand tourer to suit every taste and budget. Share your thoughts in the comments below on which GT car you’d choose as your classy Mustang alternative.

Dec 18

Budget-Friendly Powerhouses: Top 4 Cars with Over 400 Horsepower Under $50,000

Introduction to High-Performance Bargains

For enthusiasts seeking high horsepower without breaking the bank, several excellent options exist. Despite the automotive industry’s shift toward hybrid and electric models, some vehicles offer impressive power for less than $50,000. Among these, three are traditional front-engine, gas-powered, rear-wheel-drive cars, while one is an electric vehicle.

Four Affordable Cars with Over 400 Horsepower

Finding cars with over 400 horsepower for under $50,000 is rare, but these four models meet that criteria:

Make and Model Starting Price Horsepower
Ford Mustang GT $43,090 486 hp
Chevrolet Camaro LT1 $40,395 455 hp
Nissan Z Sport $43,305 400 hp
Tesla Model 3 Long Range $45,990 425 hp

The Power of the 2024 Ford Mustang GT

The 2024 Ford Mustang GT is the most powerful factory Mustang GT to date, with its Coyote V8 engine and optional performance exhaust system producing 486 horsepower. As competitors like Dodge and Chevrolet phase out their muscle cars, the seventh-generation Mustang GT continues to impress with its capabilities. This car offers an exhilarating driving experience at a price that is accessible to more buyers.

Chevrolet Camaro LT1: A Performance Bargain

The Chevrolet Camaro LT1 offers substantial power at an affordable price, delivering 455 horsepower from its entry-level V8 engine. However, Chevrolet plans to end production of the sixth-generation Camaro after the 2024 model year. This makes the Camaro LT1 an appealing choice for enthusiasts before it is discontinued.

Nissan Z Sport: Retro Style with Modern Performance

The Nissan Z Sport blends retro aesthetics with contemporary performance, delivering 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque from its twin-turbocharged V6 engine. With a manual transmission option, it appeals to drivers seeking a more engaging experience. Starting around $43,305, the Z Sport provides a stylish alternative to muscle cars like the Toyota GR Supra 3.0.

Tesla Model 3 Long Range: Electric Performance

The Tesla Model 3 Long Range stands out by offering 425 horsepower from its dual electric motors for under $50,000. Combining 184 horsepower at the front motor and 241 at the rear, it delivers impressive acceleration and all-wheel drive. The Model 3’s performance and pricing make it a compelling option for those interested in electric power without sacrificing speed.

Additional Insights and Considerations

These vehicles show that high performance does not always come with a high price tag. Whether you prefer the classic roar of a V8 or the quiet efficiency of an electric motor, these models offer a range of options to suit different tastes. For those looking for electric performance, other mid-range EVs like the Polestar 2 Dual Motor also provide over 400 horsepower, expanding the choices for environmentally conscious speed enthusiasts.

These budget-friendly powerhouses deliver exhilarating performance and great value, making them excellent choices for those seeking high horsepower without overspending.

Dec 18

2024 Ford Mustang’s Large Screens: A Bold Shift That Divides Opinions

The 2024 Ford Mustang represents a bold leap away from its classic design, embracing substantial digital screens in place of traditional elements. The new model features a prominent 13.2-inch touchscreen and a 12.4-inch digital gauge cluster, a stark contrast to the more modest screens of its predecessor. While this upgrade brings a modern edge to the Mustang’s interior, it has sparked mixed reactions among enthusiasts and reviewers alike.

The new screens, while visually impressive, have faced criticism for overshadowing the Mustang’s classic charm. The removal of the iconic double-brow dashboard, a beloved feature from past models, marks a significant shift in design philosophy. However, Ford offers a nostalgic Fox Body setting on the digital gauge cluster, allowing drivers to relive the spirit of earlier Mustangs despite the departure from traditional aesthetics.

Oct 18

How Much Is a Fully Loaded 2024 Ford Mustang Convertible?

What’s more American than a Ford Mustang? It would have to be a convertible Mustang. What’s more for ‘Stang fanatics, the 2024 Ford Mustang Convertible starts the pony car’s seventh generation with an EcoBoost and GT variant. So, how much is a fully loaded drop-top Mustang?

Which 2024 Mustang models are available as a convertible?

The 2024 Ford Mustang Convertible is available in the EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, and GT Premium trims. However, enthusiasts who want a manual Mustang EcoBoost with a drop top are out of luck; Ford dropped the row-your-own option for the EcoBoost in 2024.

Further, Ford hasn’t indicated that the standard GT will offer a convertible top as of this writing. That’s a shame for fans who want a budget-friendly V8-powered Mustang; the GT Premium Convertible starts at $10,025 more than the GT Fastback.

How much will the 2024 Mustang convertible cost?

Unfortunately for shoppers with their eyes on a 2024 Ford Mustang Convertible, every drop-top adds to the base price, especially on the base-model EcoBoost.

Convertible trim Starting price
EcoBoost Convertible $39,020
EcoBoost Premium Convertible $41,945
GT Premium Convertible $52,515

The EcoBoost Convertible on the seventh-gen platform adds around $8,100 to the base model, a staggering ask. Furthermore, the EcoBoost Premium and GT Premium Convertibles demand an additional $5,500 over the EcoBoost Premium and the GT Premium Fastbacks, per Hagerty.

Not only does every Mustang trim get a price bump for 2024, but upgrading to a drop-top costs more for each available trim. The swollen price tags also reveal that the most affordable V8 Mustang with a convertible top now demands over $50,000. What’s more, a fully loaded GT Premium Convertible can swell the model’s pricing with options like the $1,595 10-speed automatic transmission. As a result, a fully loaded GT Convertible could cost over $70,000.

What is the difference between the 2024 and 2023 Mustang?

The 2024 Ford Mustang gets a new lease on life for the next generation. In addition to fascia updates like squinted, tri-bar headlights, the Mustang gets a more prominent maw and aggressive creased rear-end styling. Additionally, the Mustang’s interior receives a welcomed update with larger infotainment and digital display screens.

Moreover, the new Mustang gets a power bump, producing as much as 486 horsepower in the GT and 500 ponies in the all-new Dark Horse.

Will the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse come in a convertible?

Like the 2023 Mach 1, the range-topping 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse and Dark Horse Premium will not be available as a convertible. Instead, both track-ready models will be hardtop coupes only.

Still, the omission of a drop-top makes sense; the added rigidity of a coupe promises to handle track work better than a convertible.

Aug 20

Ford Falcon: Classic Collectible or Just a Prelude to the Mustang?

Ford Falcon’s Legacy and Influence

The Ford Falcon, while often overshadowed by the Mustang, was a crucial precursor to one of automotive history’s most iconic names. Introduced in 1960, the Falcon set the stage for the Mustang but was more than a mere precursor; it had its own legacy, influencing car culture in its own right. Despite its discontinuation in North America after 1970, the Falcon’s design and engineering contributed significantly to Ford’s lineup and paved the way for future models.

Ford Falcon vs. Mustang: A Comparative Look

Although the 1963 Ford Falcon Sprint shared mechanical similarities with the 1964 ½ Mustang, the two models were distinct in their own rights. The Falcon offered a broader range of body styles, including sedans, wagons, coupes, and convertibles, providing versatility that the Mustang did not initially match. However, the Mustang quickly eclipsed the Falcon in popularity, becoming a cultural icon and overshadowing the Falcon’s appeal, which led to its phased-out production in North America.

The Ford Falcon’s Global Presence and Value

While North American production of the Falcon ended in 1970, the model continued to thrive in other markets, notably in Australia until 2016. In Australia, the Falcon evolved into a robust competitor against local rivals like the Holden Commodore, featuring advanced body types and V8 engines. Today, North American Falcons, particularly well-preserved or restored models, can fetch significant prices at auctions, with values ranging from around $24,860 to over $100,000, depending on condition and modifications.

Aug 20

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat vs. 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse: Key Advantages of the Hellcat

Comparing Power and Performance

As the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat prepares to bow out, it still holds notable advantages over the newly introduced 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse. With a formidable 717 horsepower and a torque-rich engine, the Hellcat delivers superior performance compared to the Dark Horse’s 500-horsepower Coyote V8. Despite the Dark Horse’s impressive acceleration, the Hellcat’s higher power output translates into a more exhilarating driving experience, particularly in drag racing scenarios where the Hellcat’s acceleration excels.

While the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse offers a competitive 0-60 mph time of under 4 seconds, the Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody, with its 3.7-second sprint, still holds a slight edge. The Hellcat’s enhanced power-to-weight ratio allows it to outpace the Dark Horse, even with its own hefty frame. This performance disparity underscores why the Hellcat remains a preferred choice for enthusiasts craving raw power.

Space and Practicality

The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat stands out for its spacious interior and generous trunk capacity, making it a more practical option than the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse. With a trunk space of 16.2 cubic feet, the Hellcat comfortably surpasses the Mustang’s capacity, catering to those who value ample storage. Although the Hellcat’s size impacts its fuel efficiency, with a highway rating of just 13 mpg, it still offers more room for everyday use compared to the Mustang, which only marginally improves fuel economy.

Price and Value

In terms of cost, the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse is priced starting at $59,270, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to the 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat, which begins at $69,895. This price difference of nearly $10,000 can be significant for buyers seeking high performance without breaking the bank. Despite its lower cost, the Dark Horse is positioned as a track-ready competitor, while the Hellcat’s superior power and spaciousness make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts looking for a balance of performance and practicality.

Both cars cater to different preferences, with the Dark Horse aimed at track aficionados and the Hellcat providing a blend of power and comfort for drag racing and daily driving.

Aug 19

Top 5 Iconic Ford Mustangs in Hollywood History

The Ford Mustang, an emblem of American sports car heritage, has not only captured the hearts of auto enthusiasts but has also garnered fame on the silver screen. This car’s legacy is enhanced by its significant appearances in films ranging from high-speed chases in blockbuster movies to pivotal scenes in cult classics. Here, we explore some of the most memorable Ford Mustangs that have left a lasting impact on both cinema and car culture.

Legendary Mustangs That Starred in Film

Among the pantheon of Hollywood cars, the Ford Mustang holds a special place. Perhaps the most celebrated is the 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390 from the movie “Bullitt,” famous for its high-octane chase scenes through the streets of San Francisco. This Mustang, along with others, has become synonymous with cinematic cool:

  • 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390 – Featured in “Bullitt”
  • 1969 Ford Mustang – Featured in “John Wick”
  • 1967 Shelby GT500 – Featured in “Gone in 60 Seconds”
  • 1964 1/2 Ford Mustang Convertible – Featured in “Goldfinger”
  • Custom 1967 Ford Mustang – Featured in “The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift”

The Most Iconic Mustangs and Their Cinematic Moments

The “Bullitt” Mustang is not just a car; it’s a cultural icon, its Dark Highland Green paint as recognizable as the film’s lead, Steve McQueen. This car’s influence is so profound that it has inspired several tribute editions over the decades. The lack of a musical score in the film’s famous chase scene emphasizes the raw power of the Mustang’s engine, which provides its own compelling soundtrack.

The narrative of the Mustang in film extends to John Wick’s 1969 model, known as a Mach 1 in the movies, which is pivotal in the storyline and cements the Mustang’s reputation as a symbol of rugged individualism. Meanwhile, the “Gone in 60 Seconds” Shelby GT500, nicknamed Eleanor, showcases the car’s allure as a beautiful yet powerful machine, making it a highlight of the film.

Enhancing Film Narratives with Mustangs

Beyond mere transportation, these Mustangs enhance their films’ narratives, adding a layer of depth and excitement that only iconic cars can. Whether it’s through thrilling chase sequences or symbolizing a character’s traits, the Mustang’s role in film is both functional and symbolic. For instance, James Bond’s brief stint with a Mustang in “Diamonds Are Forever” introduces a dynamic twist to the chase scenes, contrasting European elegance with American muscle.

The presence of these Mustangs in films underscores the model’s enduring appeal and its indelible mark on both automotive and entertainment industries. As these vehicles continue to appear in new films, their legacy as symbols of style, power, and freedom is continually reinforced, ensuring the Mustang remains a perennial favorite in the eyes of moviegoers and car enthusiasts alike.

Aug 19

Ford Mustang GTD: A Game-Changer or Just a Luxury Splurge?

The 2025 Ford Mustang GTD: An Ambitious Addition

The Ford Mustang GTD, set to debut as a 2025 model, promises to push the boundaries of what a Mustang can be. While enthusiasts initially grumbled about the absence of a supercharged Shelby variant in the seventh generation, the GTD brings a new level of excitement. This high-performance, track-ready vehicle could either compete with elite contenders like the Porsche 911 GT2 RS or be seen as an extravagant move within the Mustang lineup.

Mid-Engine Myths and High-Tech Innovations

Although the Mustang GTD isn’t a mid-engine car in the traditional sense, its design incorporates advanced features like a dual-clutch transaxle and a carbon fiber driveshaft for nearly perfect weight distribution. The GTD’s supercharged 5.2L V8 engine, targeting 800 horsepower, will make it the most powerful Mustang to date. Its bespoke suspension system with variable, semi-active adjustments enhances its track capabilities, but at a price that places it outside the typical realm of road-going track cars.

Understanding the Mustang GTD’s Racing Roots

Named after the IMSA GTD class, the Ford Mustang GTD is inspired by racing technology used in Ford’s GT3 race cars. This model aims to blend race-car performance with street-legal features, making it a unique proposition in the Mustang family. Ford’s ambition is clear: to deliver a road car that incorporates the spirit of a race car, promising exceptional performance and a potential sub-seven-minute Nürburgring lap.

The Price of Performance

With an estimated starting price of around $300,000, the 2025 Mustang GTD is set to be the priciest Mustang ever. This hefty price tag raises the question of whether the GTD is a revolutionary leap in Mustang performance or an extravagant indulgence. As Ford ventures into this new territory, the Mustang GTD will undoubtedly spark debate among enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Jul 21

Is Tuning Your Modern Muscle Car Worth It?

Your new muscle car might not be living up to its power potential. So, is a tuner, flash tune, or standalone ECU a solid fix for your horsepower headache?

OK, you got yourself a Dodge Challenger R/T, and you’re not pleased with the factory 375 crank horsepower rating. Don’t fret; a tune can help wake your engine to produce more power and torque. So is a tune or standalone engine control unit (ECU) upgrade worth it for your modern muscle car? Or should you go straight for forced induction on your S550 Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro?

Can you tune a muscle car?

Like other sports cars and performance vehicles, owners can tune a modern muscle car for optimal performance. In fact, drivers can flash a tune to their car’s hardware, opt for a tuner, or install a standalone ECU.

The easiest way to tune a modern muscle car is an ECU tune flashed to your existing hardware. For instance, some tuning houses can plug into your vehicle’s OBD II port and tune a modern muscle car like a Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE to run optimally on pump gas or 100+ octane fuel.

What are the benefits of tuning a modern muscle car?

According to CJ Pony Parts, Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) regulations routinely limit stock cars’ capacities to produce significant power. As a result, your late-model Dodge Challenger R/T or Ford Mustang GT has more potential than stock power figures suggest. A tune can access some of that potential.

More importantly, a tune is essential if you have bolt-ons on your muscle car, like a cold air intake (CAI). For instance, while running rich (too much fuel in the air-fuel mixture) is wasteful, it’s safer than running lean. A programmable ECU, like a standalone unit, can help with real-time adjustments.

What does an ECU tune do?

An ECU tune or standalone unit can take your make, model, engine size, and target inputs to adjust your vehicle’s air-fuel ratio. Many standalone units are plug-and-play, with simple connections and a port for vacuum line readings. When programmed correctly, an ECU tune will allow a stock or bolt-on motor like a 5.0L Coyote V8 or 5.7L HEMI engine to increase its overall power output.

What else can you do to make your muscle car faster?

In addition to flashing your ECU with a tune or investing in a standalone ECU, you can add forced induction to a naturally aspirated muscle car to make it more powerful and, traction-allowing, faster.

For instance, adding a turbocharger, centrifugal supercharger, or roots-style supercharger to an engine can allow it to perform at higher volumetric efficiency. That means forced induction sends air into the combustion process more efficiently than a naturally aspirated application or intake modification. As a result, an engine can gulp through more air, account for it in the air-fuel mixture, and make more power.

Of course, determined tuners and builders can make a performance car like a Ford Mustang faster without a tune or pricey forced induction. Lightening, stiffening, and investing in high-quality, grippy performance tires can do wonders for making a muscle car quicker on more than just the drag strip.

Jul 20

Don’t Like the 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost? 1 of These Used Performance Cars Could Be the Answer

The new 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost kicks off the second generation of turbocharged four-cylinder ‘Stangs. However, the Mustang’s new look isn’t for everyone. Still, the used sports car market has plenty of killer alternatives, like the 2021 Chevrolet Camaro LT and 2022 Subaru BRZ Limited.

What’s new about the 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost?

The upcoming 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost gets a brand new look inside and out, complete with angular body language and screens galore. It’s a welcome update to the aging S550 lineup, which Ford has produced continuously since 2015. Better yet, the new EcoBoost bumps horsepower output from 310 to 315.

However, the new EcoBoost loses its six-speed MT82 manual transmission option. Consequently, the cheapest way for Ford fans to get a manual Mustang in 2024 is to opt for the V8-powered GT, which starts at $42,495. Not only is the GT pricier, but it’s also a much thirstier platform. As a result, there is no longer an eco-friendly Mustang option for drivers who want to row through gears.

What are some alternatives to the 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost?

There are plenty of alternatives on the used sports market for fans who don’t want the new, manual-free, four-cylinder 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost.

Ford Mustang EcoBoost alternative Price
2021 Chevrolet Camaro LT $27,614
2022 Subaru BRZ Limited (Manual) $30,856
2020 Dodge Challenger R/T $29,629
2018 BMW M240i $32,107

While the upcoming EcoBoost carries over its 2.3L four-cylinder engine, the 2021 Chevrolet Camaro LT and Dodge Challenger R/T offer more powerful V6 and V8s, respectively. Moreover, the 2018 BMW M240i xDrive provides grippy all-wheel drive (AWD) and a more powerful inline six-cylinder engine. Finally, the 2022 Subaru BRZ Limited is a lightweight, engaging flat four-cylinder alternative to the EcoBoost with an eager manual gearbox.

How much horsepower does a 2021 Camaro LT V6 have?

The 2021 Chevrolet Camaro LT produces 335 horsepower from its optional 3.6L V6. The six-cylinder engine is a welcome bump over the standard 2.0L four-cylinder mill and its 275 ponies.

Moreover, 335 horsepower is enough to out-muscle the 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost and the current 330-horsepower EcoBoost High Performance. Better yet, the Camaro LT has an optional six-speed manual transmission, a feature that the upcoming EcoBoost won’t offer.

How much is a 2022 Subaru BRZ Limited?

A used 2022 Subaru BRZ Limited has a fair value of about $30,856, per Kelley Blue Book (KBB). Still, the BRZ, along with its mechanical sibling, the Toyota GR86, constitutes one of the most engaging driver’s cars on the market.

With a rev-happy 228-horsepower 2.4L flat four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission, the BRZ trades forced induction and high horsepower figures for nimble handling and joyous gear changes.

How much horsepower does a 2020 Challenger R/T 5.7 have?

A 2020 Dodge Challenger R/T produces 375 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Power comes courtesy of a naturally aspirated 5.7L HEMI V8 engine. Furthermore, the R/T is the entry-level V8-powered model in the Challenger lineup.

Furthermore, the R/T’s V8 is musical and muscular compared to the four-cylinder mill in a comparable Ford Mustang EcoBoost. Better yet, the Challenger R/T offers a six-speed manual transmission or a quick-shifting eight-speed automatic. Of course, the Challenger is larger, heavier, and thirstier. Still, the used Dodge model’s $29,629 value is a bit less spendy than the new 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost’s $30,920 start point.

Is a used 2018 BMW M240i more expensive than a new Ford Mustang EcoBoost?

A used 2018 BMW M240i xDrive has a fair value of around $32,107, nearly $1,200 more than a new 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost. However, the BMW’s inline six-cylinder out-muscles the incipient EcoBoost by 20 horsepower.

Moreover, the M240i xDrive boasts AWD for competence in inclement weather, a feature the Mustang goes without. Further, the M240i is available as a coupe or convertible to rival the new EcoBoost’s options.