Mustang a Good Daily Driver? (Ecoboost, GT, GT350, GT500)
Ford Mustangs, especially in their latest iteration, are some of the more comfortable daily drivers with better fuel economy among muscle cars.
Crucially, performance remains a strength despite the improved livability.
Ford Mustang’s Negatives as a Daily Driver
#1 Poor Fuel Economy (Except for the i4s)
Fuel consumption in the Mustang is expectedly high, but it isn’t any worse than class competitors.
All V8 trims in the Mustang family could only achieve a mere 14 to 18 mpg combined, regardless of the model year.
However, with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the sixth-gen EcoBoost breaks the long-held image that muscle cars are gas guzzlers, returning an impressive 24 to 26 mpg in combined city/highway driving.
The inline-four powertrain is the most efficient in the segment.
(See the Mustang trims comparison later in this post.)
#2 Cramped Backseat Limits Practicality
As is typical with sports coupes, room in the rear passenger seat is in short supply.
In true two-door racing machine fashion, only kids fit in the backseat – and accessing that space is a squeeze.
Legroom behind the front seats is limited, while headroom is equally restricted with the low rear headliner, thanks to the sloping roofline.
Considering the Mustang’s low overall vehicle height, the headroom constraints aren’t surprising.
| Car Height | |
| Chevy Camaro | 53.1 inches (1,349 mm) |
| Ford Mustang | 55.6 inches (1,412 mm) |
| Dodge Challenger | 57.7 inches (1,466 mm) |
| Dodge Charger | 57.8 inches (1,468 mm) |
If you need a spacious two-door muscle car, opt for the Dodge Challenger.
But if the practicality of a four-door design appeals, consider the Dodge Charger sedan.
Both keep you in the muscle car territory.
#3 All-Wheel-Drive Isn’t an Option
An all-wheel-drive system for extra traction when conditions demand it is, unfortunately, unavailable in the Mustang.
Opting for a rear-wheel-driven Mustang is an easy decision if you live in a region that enjoys primarily sunny weather.
But if you live in snowy climes, you should consider the Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger, as they have an AWD in some select trims.
Ford Mustang’s Positives as a Daily Driver
#4 Composed and Civilized Ride (Best In Class)
As awe-inspiring as the newer Mustang is in the performance aspects, it capably provides a comfortable ride.
The cabin is reasonably quiet and well-insulated from wind and road noise, allowing the magnificent sound of the V8 to fill the interior.
Additionally, the well-cushioned front seats are supportive, keeping you in place while nimbly carving the corners and providing much-needed comfort for the long drives.
The Ford Mustang excels if you desire a quiet cruiser and a comfortable muscle car.
#5 Punchy Powertrain in the Entry-Level Trim
Buying an affordable muscle car with an as-strong-as-possible fuel economy typically means opting for a less powerful and less inspiring powertrain in the standard variant.
Delightedly, the choice isn’t as difficult in the latest iteration of Mustangs.
The turbocharged in-line four engine in the Mustang EcoBoost provides strong power while saving you as much fuel as a muscle car could.
Available since 2015, the powertrain produces a healthy 300-plus horsepower, delivering 350 lb-ft of torque at a relatively low 3,000 rpm.
A supercharged V8 available in the Shelby GT500 is gutsy, pumping out a monstrous 700-plus horses, but fuel economy inevitably suffers.
If you want a near-20-mpg fuel economy average, the middle-ground Mustang GT – also a V8 – is plenty quick, powering from zero to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds.
All Mustangs have appropriately-weighted steering that handles corners with an abundance of grip and minimal body roll.
#6 Easy to See Out Of
Visibility is typically a concern in muscle and sports cars where looks and performance trump practical needs.
Thankfully, outward visibility in the Mustang is fairly good and is indeed the best among the three muscle coupes.
The relatively slim windshield pillars and decent-sized side and rear windows aid the driver’s outward views.
Still, driving a coupe usually requires the aid of a backup camera and blind spot warning system for ease of maneuverability.
#7 Sizeable Cargo Capacity (Beats the Camaro)
Most coupes and convertibles fare poorly in the storage department, sacrificing practicality for style and performance.
However, trunk size in the Mustang is respectable for a coupe body.
The Mustang’s cargo room cannot rival the segment kings, the Challenger coupe, and Charger sedan, but it’s roomier than the Camaro in coupe and convertibles body styles.
| Cargo Capacity (seats in place) | |
| Chevy Camaro (convertible) | 7.3 cubic ft. (-0st-2016) 10.2 cubic ft. (pre-2016) |
| Chevy Camaro (coupe) | 9.1 cubic ft. (post-2016) 11.3 cubic ft. (pre-2016) |
| Ford Mustang (coupe) | 13.5 cubic ft. |
| Dodge Challenger (coupe) | 16.2 cubic ft. |
| Dodge Charger (sedan) | 16.5 cubic ft. |
The trunk’s wide opening and low liftover height enhance the usability of the cargo capacity the Mustang offers.
#8 Inexpensive Annual Maintenance
Ford Mustangs cost an average of $709 per year to maintain, according to RepairPal.
It is segment-competitive, costing approximately $7,000 for maintenance and general repairs during the first ten years of service.
The table below shows how the American muscle cars stack up in the year-to-year annual maintenance costs:
| Year | Annual Costs (Camaro) | Annual Costs (Mustang) | Annual Costs (Charger) | Annual Costs (Challenger) |
| 1 | $255 | $254 | $279 | $313 |
| 2 | $295 | $294 | $323 | $360 |
| 3 | $358 | $359 | $394 | $435 |
| 4 | $459 | $461 | $508 | $555 |
| 5 | $543 | $547 | $602 | $655 |
| 6 | $674 | $682 | $750 | $811 |
| 7 | $942 | $955 | $1,051 | $1,129 |
| 8 | $1,048 | $1,063 | $1,171 | $1,256 |
| 9 | $1,147 | $1,164 | $1,283 | $1,374 |
| 10 | $1,294 | $1,314 | $1,448 | $1,548 |
| 11 | $1,313 | $1,334 | $1,469 | $1,571 |
| 12 | $1,470 | $1,494 | $1,646 | $1,758 |
The probability of significant repair logically increases with the Mustang’s age:
- 2.14% in year 1,
- 10.10$ in year 5,
- 20.79% in year 10, and
- 40.46% in year 12.
These probability figures are on par with the Mustang’s arch-rival, the Camaro.
(Scroll down for the Mustang vs. Camaro comparison for daily driving.)
#9 Relatively Good Resale Value
Ford Mustangs retain value well – it beats the Dodge Charger but loses to the Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro.
The Mustang depreciates 43% after five years and 66% at the full-decade mark.
Let’s see how it compares with other sports cars:
| 5-yr Depreciation | 10-yr Depreciation | |
| Mazda MX-5 Miata | 38% | 55% |
| Audi R8 | 40% | 47% |
| Nissan GT-R | 40% | 56% |
| Dodge Challenger | 40% | 61% |
| Chevy Camaro | 40% | 62% |
| Subaru WRX | 40% | 70% |
| Nissan 370z | 42% | 58% |
| Ford Mustang | 43% | 66% |
| Porsche 911 | 45% | 63% |
| Dodge Charger | 48% | 75% |
Alternative daily drivers in the sports car market that command high resale values include:
Ford Mustang Generations
Here’s a summary of the Ford Mustang’s generations:
- First generation (1965-1973)
- Second generation (1974-1978)
- Third generation (1979-1993)
- Fourth generation (1994-2004)
- Fifth generation (2005-2014)
- Sixth generation (2015-present)
Best Mustang for Daily Driving: Trims Compared
Table Guide:
- Engine: T=turbo; SC=supercharged.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined.
- Fuel Type: Prem=premium; ReQ=required; ReC=recommended.
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | |
| EcoBoost | 2.3L i4 T (2015-present) | 310-hp (2015-present) | 24-26-mpg (2015-present) | Prem-ReC (2015-present) |
| V6 (Deluxe) | 3.7L V6 (2011-2017) 4.0L V6 (2005-2010) 3.8L V6 (1994-2004) | 300-305-hp (2011-2017) 210-hp (2005-2010) 145-193-hp (1994-2004) | 21-22-mpg (2011-2017) 20-21-mpg (2005-2010) 20-21-mpg (1994-2004) | Regular (2011-2017) Regular (2005-2010) Regular (1994-2004) |
| SVT Cobra | 4.6L V8 (2001-2004) | 320-390-hp (2001-2004) | 17-18-mpg (2001-2004) | Prem-ReQ (2001-2004) |
| GT | 5.0L V8 (2011-present) 4.6L V8 (1996-2010) 5.0L V8 (1990-1995) | 412-460-hp (2011-present) 215-315-hp (1996-2010) 205-225-hp (1990-1995) | 18-20-mpg (2011-present) 18-19-mpg (1996-2010) 17-18-mpg (1990-1995) | Prem-ReC (2011-present) Regular (1996-2010) Regular (1990-1995) |
| Mach 1 | 5.0L V8 (2021-present) | 480-hp (2021-present) | 17-mpg (2021-present) | Prem-ReC (2021-present) |
| Shelby GT350 | 5.2L V8 (2015-2020) | 526-hp (2015-2020) | 16-mpg (2015-2020) | Prem-ReC (2015-2020) |
| Shelby GT500 | 5.2L V8 SC (2020-present) 5.8L V8 SC (2013-2014) 5.4L V8 SC (2007-2012) | 760-hp (2020-present) 662-hp (2013-2014) 500-550-hp (2007-2012) | 14-mpg (2020-present) 18-mpg (2013-2014) 16-17-mpg (2007-2012) | Prem-ReC (2020-present) Prem-ReQ (2013-2014) Prem-ReQ (2007-2012) |
You don’t get muscle cars for fuel economy, but the automakers understand the need to at least make them as efficient as possible without sacrificing performance.
In that case, the EcoBoost is the best Mustang for daily driving with the ideal combination of segment-best fuel economy, strong turbocharged engine, and ride comfort.
Can You Daily Drive a Mustang EcoBoost?
The Mustang EcoBoost is the ideal pony car for daily use.
It has a refined interior (compared to previous generations) and handles like a sports car while maintaining a strong power plant befitting the muscle car status.
Can You Daily Drive a V6 Mustang?
V6 engines in the Mustang lineup retired after the 2017 model year, two years after the turbocharged in-line four debuted.
While their power output is comparable, the V6 Mustangs lack features available in the newer EcoBoost, such as:
- foglamps,
- power front seats,
- and active noise cancellation that counteracts powertrain noises for a more comfortable cabin.
Daily driving a V6 Mustang is a reasonable choice but is less practical when the similarly-powerful EcoBoost is more fuel-efficient and current with modern tech features.
Still, a V6 Mustang is less expensive and ideal for Mustang enthusiasts looking for an affordable everyday car.
Can You Daily Drive a Mustang GT?
The Mustang GT has a firmer suspension and higher-performance tires than the base trim, sacrificing some comfort, although the ride quality is still tolerable for daily duties.
The reasonable ride comfort is admirable given its muscular character and track skills.
If you want the most affordable V8 in a Mustang, the GT is the perfect choice as a daily driver.
Another positive of daily driving a Mustang GT (for models up to 2010) is the use of regular gas despite having a V8 under the hood.
The automaker recommends premium fuel for the GT models from 2011 onwards.
These are some notable model years:
- 1990 to 1995 Mustang GTs have the least fuel-efficient V8 (approx. 17 mpg combined).
- 2011 and 2012 GTs returns the highest fuel economy (20 mpg average).
- The sixth-gen Mustang GTs (from 2015) are the better choice for daily drivers with an average fuel consumption among the GT model years, a more muscular styling, and an extensive tech and convenience feature list that enhances driving comfort.
Can You Daily Drive a Shelby GT350?
The GT350 has a relatively short presence in the new car market – from 2015 to 2020.
It was the most powerful Mustang without a supercharged power plant when it debuted, putting out an impressive 526 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque.
Among competing muscle cars, the Mustang Shelby GT350 is the best all-rounder and an excellent daily driver:
- Surprisingly comfortable and composed ride with the adaptive suspension; even the Track mode is livable.
- Relatively quiet cabin despite the frameless windows and performance tires.
- Good outward visibility with slim windshield pillars and decent-sized glass area, aiding ease of driving.
- Accurate and responsive steering that makes driving super fun while providing a predictable grip that isn’t overly aggressive.
- Comfortable and supportive seats for long-distance drives, although the bolsters may feel tight for larger drivers.
- Decent and usable trunk space (13.5 cubic feet).
- A reasonable price given the eye-watering performance metrics.
Its fuel economy is almost as abysmal as the supercharged V8 Mustang.
Still, considering a Mustang Shelby for a daily driver means living with the high prices at the pump.
Can You Daily Drive a Shelby GT500?
The latest iteration of the GT500 replaced the GT350 after the latter ceased production post-2020.
Compared to its predecessor, the GT500 carries a supercharged V8.
The recent Shelby GT500 models from 2020 are the most potent Mustang to date, but they are less suitable for daily driving:
- The monstrous 760 horsepower earns the GT500 the title of the least fuel-efficient Mustang (sub-15-mpg combined).
- Lower overall value – a Mustang GT is half the GT500’s price; both have a V8 powertrain under the hood with similar driving dynamics.
However, the GT500’s ride doesn’t beat you up and remains compliant enough for long drives despite the undesirable extra expense the potent engine brings.
It retains Mustang’s impressive handling and straight-line and cornering performances and remains comfortable and practical for everyday use.
But if you want the most fuel-efficient GT500, opt for the 2013 or 2014 model (gen-5), as its 662-hp supercharged V8 can still return an impressive 18 mpg in mixed driving.
That said, they do not have a telescoping steering wheel found in later models.
What about the Classic First-Gen Mustangs as Daily Drivers?
The pioneering generation of Mustangs spanned nine years.
Unless you’re your own mechanic and enjoy working on your vehicle, these first-generation Ford Mustangs (1965 to 1973) are terrible daily drivers.
They are half a century old or older, have countless miles on them, and severely lack the fuel economy and safety features found in today’s Mustangs.
The odds are stacked against you finding one in the pink of health.
Best Ford Mustang Year for Daily Driving (Base Trim)
Table Guide:
- Fuel Economy: mpg city/highway/combined (base trim).
- Reliability: /100; higher = fewer problems (JD Power).
- Safety (IIHS): 1 (poor) to 4 (good); IIHS tests average.
- Safety (NHTSA): 1 (poor) to 5 (safest); NHTSA overall.
- Complaints: total reported problems (CarComplaints).
| Model Year | Fuel Econ. | Reliability | Safety (IIHS) | Safety (NHTSA) | Complaints |
| 2022 Mustang | 21/29/24 | NA | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | – |
| 2021 Mustang | 21/29/24 | NA | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | – |
| 2020 Mustang | 21/30/24 | 85/100 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | 3 |
| 2019 Mustang | 21/31/25 | 79/100 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | 11 |
| 2018 Mustang | 21/31/25 | 81/100 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | 9 |
| 2017 Mustang | 18/27/21 | 81/100 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | 23 |
| 2016 Mustang | 17/28/21 | 81/100 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | 66 |
| 2015 Mustang | 17/28/21 | 79/100 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | 107 |
| 2014 Mustang | 19/29/22 | 80/100 | 3.6/4 | 4/5 | 73 |
| 2013 Mustang | 19/29/22 | 81/100 | 3.6/4 | 4/5 | 57 |
| 2012 Mustang | 19/29/22 | 82/100 | 3.6/4 | 4/5 | 115 |
| 2011 Mustang | 19/29/22 | 81/100 | 3.6/4 | NA | 92 |
| 2010 Mustang | 18/26/21 | 84/100 | 3.6/4 | NA | 56 |
| 2009 Mustang | 17/26/20 | 82/100 | NA | NA | 30 |
| 2008 Mustang | 17/26/20 | 84/100 | NA | NA | 53 |
| 2007 Mustang | 17/25/20 | 82/100 | NA | NA | 101 |
| 2006 Mustang | 17/26/20 | NA | NA | NA | 246 |
| 2005 Mustang | 17/26/20 | NA | NA | NA | 180 |
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated the 2015 and newer Mustangs ‘Good’ in front-moderate-overlap, side, rear, and roof tests – but only ‘Marginal’ in the small front overlap driver-side test, hence the less-than-perfect overall score.
Pre-2015 Mustangs aren’t better in crash safety, achieving only 4 out of 5 stars in the NHTSA crash tests.
However, the 2021 and 2022 Mustang Mach-E SUV received IIHS’s Top Safety Pick award.
The 2015 or newer Mustang EcoBoost remains the best daily driver with segment-topping fuel economy, a comfortable cabin, and plenty of modern tech features.
The 2016 Ford Mustang has the most overall complaints with problems that include:
- Body paint (bubbling),
- Electrical (battery draining continually),
- Engine (stalls while driving), and
- Transmission (failure).
Ford Mustang Comparison with Other Muscle and Sports Cars
Ford Mustang vs. Dodge Challenger as a Daily Driver
Table Guide:
- Engine: base trim; T=turbo.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Fuel Type: Prem=premium; ReQ=required; ReC=recommended.
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor.
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | Maint. Costs | Visibility | Ride Comfort | |
| Ford Mustang | 2.3L-i4-T (2015-present) 3.7L-4.0L-V6 (1994-2017) | 210-310-hp | 20-26-mpg | Prem-ReC (2015-present) Regular (1994-2017) | $709 | Average | Average |
| Dodge Challenger | 3.5L-3.6L-V6 | 250-305-hp | 20-23-mpg | Regular | $650 | Poor | Average |
The Ford Mustang surpasses the Challenger as the better daily driver with a stronger fuel economy in the EcoBoost base trim, improved visibility, and a quieter cabin for a more comfortable drive.
However, the Mustang’s trunk is smaller, and its two doors are long and heavy.
Ford Mustang vs. Dodge Charger as a Daily Driver
Table Guide:
- Engine: base trim; T=turbo.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Fuel Type: Prem=premium; ReQ=required; ReC=recommended.
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor (base trim).
Although a pony car, the Charger also classes as a full-size sedan.
Opt for the Mustang EcoBoost for a more comfortable and fuel-efficient muscular car and the Charger if you need a roomier backseat and four-door practicality.
Ford Mustang vs. Chevy Corvette as a Daily Driver
Table Guide:
- Engine: base trim; T=turbo.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Fuel Type: Prem=premium; ReQ=required; ReC=recommended.
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor.
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | Maint. Costs | Visibility | Ride Comfort | |
| Ford Mustang | 2.3L-i4-T (2015-present) 3.7L-4.0L-V6 (1994-2017) | 210-310-hp | 20-26-mpg | Prem-ReC (2015-present) Regular (1994-2017) | $709 | Average | Average |
| Chevy Corvette | 5.7L-6.2L-V8 | 245-490-hp | 17-21-mpg | Prem-ReC (2009-present) Prem-ReQ (2003-2008) Regular (up to 2002) | $737 | Average | Good |
Mustang vs. Corvette is a muscle car vs. sports car competition – the Corvette, in its standard form, is roughly twice the price of a Mustang.
Although the Corvette boasts superior engine and cornering performance, it edges the Mustang as the more comfortable daily driver despite the powerful V8.
Still, the latest iteration of Mustang is a superb all-rounder, with a civilized ride and superior fuel economy, as far as muscle cars go.
Ford Mustang vs. Chevy Camaro as a Daily Driver
Table Guide:
- Engine: base trim; T=turbo.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Fuel Type: Prem=premium; ReQ=required; ReC=recommended.
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor.
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | Maint. Costs | Visibility | Ride Comfort | |
| Ford Mustang | 2.3L-i4-T (2015-present) 3.7L-4.0L-V6 (1994-2017) | 210-310-hp | 20-26-mpg | Prem-ReC (2015-present) Regular (1994-2017) | $709 | Average | Average |
| Chevy Camaro | 2.0L i4 T (2016-present) 3.6L V6 (2010-2015) | 275-323-hp | 20-25-mpg | Prem-ReC (2016-present) Regular (2010-2015) | $585 | Poor | Average |
The turbocharged four-cylinder Mustang (EcoBoost) was available since 2015, while the Camaro’s version of the turbo engine debuted in 2016.
Both are comparable in power output and fuel consumption.
Comparing the standard trims, the Ford Mustang is a better daily driver than the Chevy Camaro, with marginally better ride quality and improved visibility that makes driving easier.
Ford Mustang GT vs. Chevy Camaro SS as a Daily Driver
Table Guide:
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Fuel Type: Prem=premium; ReQ=required; ReC=recommended.
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor.
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | Maint. Costs | Visibility | Ride Comfort | |
| Mustang GT | 4.6L-5.0L-V8 | 205-460-hp | 17-20-mpg | Prem-ReC (2011-present) Regular (1990-2010) | $709 | Average | Average |
| Camaro SS | 6.2L-V8 | 426-455-hp | 19-mpg | Prem-ReC | $585 | Poor | Average |
Both are superb high-performance V8 machines, but the Mustang GT edges the Camaro SS as the more liveable everyday car with significantly enhanced visibility and a slightly more compliant ride.
However, the Camaro SS is the marginally stronger performer in on-track metrics, blending straight-line speed with steering precision and driving enjoyment.
Shelby GT350 vs. Shelby GT500 vs. Camaro ZL1 vs. Challenger Hellcat vs. Charger Hellcat as Daily Driver
Table Guide:
- Engine: SC=supercharged.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Fuel Type: Prem=premium; ReQ=required; ReC=recommended.
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor.
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | Maint. Costs | Visibility | Ride Comfort | |
| Shelby GT350 | 5.2L-V8 | 526-hp | 16-mpg | Prem-ReC | $709+ | Average | Average |
| Shelby GT500 | 5.2L V8 SC (2020-present) 5.8L V8 SC (2013-2014) 5.4L V8 SC (2007-2012) | 500-760-hp | 14-18-mpg | Prem-ReC (2020-present) Prem-ReQ (2013-2014) Prem-ReQ (2007-2012) | $709+ | Average | Average |
| Camaro ZL1 | 6.2L-V8-SC | 580-650-hp | 16-mpg | Prem-ReQ | $585+ | Poor | Average |
| Challenger Hellcat | 6.2L-V8-SC | 707-717-hp | 16-mpg | Prem-ReC Prem-ReQ | $650+ | Poor | Average |
| Charger Hellcat | 6.2L-V8-SC | 707-797-hp | 15-16-mpg | Prem-ReC Prem-ReQ | $652+ | Average | Average |
The battle of the supercharged V8 muscle cars sees the Mustang Shelby GT500 coming out on top as the marginally better daily driver with an overall higher ride quality and improved visibility.
2013 and 2014 Shelby GT500 have the most fuel-efficient supercharged V8 of all.
Still, the lower trim levels of the respective muscle cars have similar driving and handling capabilities with higher fuel efficiency at a lower price.
Ford Mustang vs. Other Daily Drivers
Table Guide:
- Horsepower: base trim.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Safety (IIHS): 1 (poor) to 4 (good); IIHS tests average.
- Safety (NHTSA): 1 (poor) to 5 (safest); NHTSA overall.
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor.
| Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Maint. Costs | Safety (IIHS) | Safety (NHTSA) | Visibility | Ride Comfort | |
| Audi R8 | 420-562-hp | 17 | $1,123 | NA | NA | Average | Average |
| Nissan GT-R | 480-565-hp | 19 | $920 | NA | NA | Average | Average |
| Chevy Corvette | 245-490 hp | 19 | $737 | NA | NA | Average | Good |
| Porsche 911 | 247-379-hp | 23 | $1,072 | NA | NA | Good | Good |
| Nissan 370z | 332 hp | 22 | $504 | NA | NA | Poor | Poor |
| Ford Focus RS | 350-hp | 22 | $569+ | NA | 5/5 | Good | Poor |
| Chevy Camaro | 275-323-hp | 22 | $585 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | Poor | Average |
| Dodge Challenger | 250-305 hp | 23 | $650 | 3.2/4 | 5/5 | Poor | Average |
| Dodge Charger | 178-300 hp | 23 | $652 | 3.6/4 | 5/5 | Average | Average |
| Subaru WRX | 230-271-hp | 23 | $682 | 4/4 | 5/5 | Good | Average |
| Subaru BRZ | 205-228-hp | 24 | $672 | 3.8/4 | NA | Good | Average |
| Ford Mustang | 145-310 hp | 24 | $709 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | Average | Average |
| VW Golf R | 288-315-hp | 24 | $903 | NA | NA | Good | Good |
| VW Golf GTI | 210-228-hp | 27 | $791 | 3.8/4 | 5/5 | Good | Good |
| Mazda Miata | 116-181-hp | 29 | $429 | NA | NA | Average | Average |
| Honda-Civic-Type-R | 306-hp | 25 | $368+ | 4/4 | 5/5 | Good | Good |
| Honda Civic Si | 197-205-hp | 30 | $368+ | 4/4 | 5/5 | Good | Good |
| Honda Civic | 110-158-hp | 33 | $368 | 4/4 | 5/5 | Good | Good |
Although contenders from the big three automakers in the muscle car segment have improved markedly in their ride comfort, the current-generation Ford Mustang leads the way, although marginally, over these rivals:
The Subaru BRZ is a rear-wheel-drive, entry-level sports car at a similar price as the standard Mustang.
It is worth considering as its handling is sharp and responsive, and the coupe is super fun to drive.
If you desire a spacious and practical daily driver with extra horses on tap, opt for the Volkswagen Golf R or Golf GTI hot hatch.
Its smooth ride, good visibility, and lower curb weight for ease of driving are huge pluses you’d appreciate in a high-performance daily vehicle.
Other attractive daily drivers with more performance than a regular everyday car include:
- Mazda MX-5 Miata – lightweight, impressively fuel-efficient, and highly engaging to drive.
- Honda Civic Si and Civic Type R – all-around improved performance over the standard Civic. Plus, it’s reliable and inexpensive to maintain.
A regular Honda Civic isn’t a like-for-like comparison to the Mustang. Still, its inclusion in the comparison table provides a good picture of what an economical daily driver can do at a lower price tag.
References:
https://www.ford.com/cars/mustang/
https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2022/FORD/MUSTANG/2%252520DR/RWD
https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2022/FORD/MUSTANG%252520GT%252520500/2%252520DR/RWD
https://repairpal.com/reliability/ford/mustang
https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/bymodel/2022_Ford_Mustang.shtml
