The 1960s introduced many icons to the world, from the British Invasion of the Beatles to the new American icon, the Ford Mustang. There are very few American muscle cars that have stood the test of time like the Mustang, with its legacy of power and style. Since its debut in 1964, the Mustang has become more than just a car, but rather a symbol of freedom, power, and style. Over the years, Ford has produced countless iterations of this iconic muscle car, each leaving its own mark on automotive history, and of course, everyone has their favorites.

We have compiled a list of some of the top Mustang models and years, as well as highlighting the features that made them stand out throughout their incredible run.

Key Takeaways

• The Mustang has evolved for six decades, but every generation has kept the same spirit of American performance and personality.

• Each featured model represents a milestone, from early classics like the 1965 and 1967 fastbacks to modern powerhouses like the 2012 Boss 302 and 2020 GT500.

• The Mustang remains iconic because it continually blends heritage, innovation, and standout performance in every era.

1965 Ford Mustang

It all began with the 1965 Mustang, which was officially introduced in April 1964. The classic 1965 Mustang was the first full production year, and it set the standard for the "pony car" class. Styling-wise, it was a hit with its long hood and short rear deck, making it a sporty yet affordable design. The 1965 Mustang was available in coupe, convertible, and fastback body styles, and offered a range of engine options, including the now-legendary 289 cubic inch V8.

1967 Ford Mustang

It was only two years before the first major redesign of the American muscle car. The 1967 Mustang took the original design and added more power, with a wider, more aggressive stance and an option for the powerful 390 cubic inch V8 engine. The legendary Shelby GT500, a high-performance variant, was also introduced with this model and has become one of the most sought-after Mustangs in history. The 1967 Mustang is still a highly sought-after vehicle for collectors today.

1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429

In 1969, Ford introduced the Mustang Boss 429, which was built for power. This model was an extreme performance machine with an engine that was conservatively rated at 375 horsepower. Its aggressive design, complete with a functional hood scoop, wide stance, and minimalist badging, made it an iconic American muscle car. As with the Shelby GT500, the Boss 429 is one of the most coveted Mustangs, with prices reflecting its rarity and performance pedigree.

1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1

The 1970 Mustang Mach 1 was the peak model of the first-generation Mustang’s performance capabilities. Its shaker hood scoop, sleek fastback design, and a range of powerful engines, including the 428 Cobra Jet, made the Mach 1 a muscle car enthusiast’s dream. This model also featured a more refined interior compared to earlier Mustangs, making it a powerful and comfortable cruiser.

1987 Ford Mustang GT

The 1980s brought with it emission regulations and changes to the automotive industry. In 1987, Ford downsized the model and introduced the “Fox Body" Mustang. The new Mustang regained its performance edge with the 1987 GT model, which featured a lightweight design and a revamped 5.0-liter V8 engine that produced 225 horsepower—a significant number for the time. The 1987 Mustang GT was a car for the modern era, blending the raw performance of earlier Mustangs with contemporary styling. The Fox Body Mustangs of this era are still celebrated for their tuning potential and their role in keeping the Mustang relevant during a challenging period for American performance cars.

2005 Ford Mustang GT

The 2005 Mustang GT marked the beginning of the "retro-futurism" design trend in the automotive world. Ford went back to its roots with this model, paying homage to the classic 1960s Mustangs while incorporating modern technology and performance. The 2005 GT came equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 300 horsepower, combined with a retro-styled interior and exterior that won the hearts of Mustang purists and new buyers alike. This model helped re-establish the Mustang as a leader in the muscle car world during the 21st century.

2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302

The 2012 Boss 302 was a revival of the legendary 1969 Boss 302, and it did not disappoint. Ford engineered this model with a singular focus: performance. Under the hood was a 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 444 horsepower, matched with a track-ready suspension system. The 2012 Boss 302 was designed to be a street-legal race car, and it lived up to that promise with lap times that rivaled much more expensive European sports cars. This model is revered for its perfect blend of modern technology and raw, old-school muscle.

2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

The 2020 Shelby GT500 Mustang was built for absolute power and performance. It is the single most powerful Mustang ever produced. Under the hood, it is powered by a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine that puts out 760 horsepower. This Mustang is stacked with high-performance enhancements from track-focused suspension to huge brakes that make it a formidable competitor on the racetrack. This Mustang is sure to go down as a classic in the years to come.

2025 Ford Mustang

The 2025 Ford Mustang ushers the nameplate into a new generation with a mix of modern engineering and familiar muscle-car attitude. The EcoBoost variant offers strong turbocharged performance with 315 horsepower, while the GT’s updated 5.0-liter V8 pushes output into the mid-480s, depending on the exhaust configuration. At the top of the lineup, the Dark Horse model stands out with a specially tuned 5.0-liter engine producing 500 horsepower, supported by enhanced cooling, suspension, and braking systems for track-focused capability. Inside, digital displays, updated technology, and refined materials bring the cabin fully up to date. The result is a Mustang that stays true to its heritage while delivering sharper performance and a more modern driving experience.

How ECD Customizes Classic and Modern Mustangs

At ECD, Mustang customizations are approached with the same level of craftsmanship and personalization that define the company’s signature restorations. Each project begins with a detailed consultation to understand a client’s vision, whether they want a period-correct restoration, modern performance upgrades, or a complete reinterpretation of their Mustang.

ECD’s team can integrate contemporary drivetrains, enhanced suspension systems, upgraded braking packages, and custom exhaust setups to deliver performance that surpasses factory specifications. Interiors are tailored by hand, offering premium materials, bespoke stitching patterns, updated technology, and modern conveniences while preserving the soul of the Mustang. From powertrain transformations to handcrafted cabin details, every ECD Mustang is built as a one-of-one creation that reflects the owner’s style and driving goals.