Whether you are in the market for your first Mustang or want to add another one to your collection, it helps to better understand the Ford Mustang models available. Every Mustang has a unique feature or characteristic to help it stand out to collectors. If you want speed, responsiveness, or all of the above, you can find it in a Mustang.
On our list, you’ll find options ranging from $10,000 to $500,000.
Part 1: The Legendary Shelby Mustangs
The Shelby Mustangs are the Mustangs you likely know about, regardless of if you are a Mustang person. These were inspired by Carroll Shelby’s vision to create sports cars that could dominate both the road (and the track).
#1: 1965 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350
- Year of release: 1965
- Average Cost Today: $350,000 – $500,000
- Level of rarity: Very rare
- Top features: 289-cubic-inch V8 engine and fiberglass hood
The ‘65 Shelby GT350 was really a race car, yet it also worked as a street-legal vehicle. It had a 289-cubic-inch V8 engine tweaked to churn out 306 horsepower. In addition, the fiberglass hood with a functional air scoop made the ride even smoother. If you are the type that wants to hear the Mustang rumble, the side-exit exhaust pipes enhance the sound on this GT350. The Shelby GT350 is one of the most expensive Ford Mustangs.
#2: 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
- Year of release: 2013
- Average Cost Today: $50,000 – $70,000
- Level of Rarity: Semi-rare
- Top Feature: Supercharged 5.8-liter V8 engine that could reach 202 mph
The 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 could reach speeds of up to 202 mph. It had a supercharged 5.8-liter V8 engine that truly made it one of the fastest of the time.
But just how fast was the 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500? In a mere 3.7 seconds, it could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. Yep, that’s fast.
#3: 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
- Year of Release: 2020
- Average Cost Today:: $70,000 – $100,000
- Level of Rarity: Semi-rare
- Top Features: Its 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine with 760 horsepower, and the advanced aerodynamics
The 2020 Shelby GT500 is an iconic vehicle that blends street sensibility with track aggression. Its features include a 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine, 760 horsepower, and advanced aerodynamics. Looking back, the 2020 Shelby GT500 has a history on both the track and the open road.
Part 2: High-Performance Mustangs for Racing Enthusiasts
The Mustang has always been known as a racing car, both on and off the track. These high-performance vehicles come equipped with upgraded suspension and engines designed for speed.
#1: 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429
- Year of Release: 1969
- Average Cost Today: $200,000 – $500,000
- Level of Rarity: Very rare
- Top Features: A powerful Boss 429 engine and modified front suspension.
The ‘69 Boss 429 was a car born out of necessity—to dominate NASCAR.
This is a hard Mustang to find with a limited run of just 1,358 cars. The Boss 429 engine was rated at 375 horsepower but likely exceeded 500. The 1969 Boss 429 has a drastically modified front suspension so the engine would fit under the Mustang’s hood.
#2: 1985.5 Ford Mustang SVO
- Year of Release: 1985
- Average Cost Today: $10,000 – $25,000
- Level of Rarity: Semi-rare
- Top Features: Its 2.3-liter turbocharged engine and advanced suspension components
When the Ford Mustang SVO was first released, it was ahead of its time. It features a 2.3-liter engine putting out 205 horsepower. It was also great at balance and handling.
The SVO stood out with its advanced suspension components, including adjustable shocks and a limited-slip rear axle.
#3: 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca
- Year of Release: 2012
- Average Cost Today: $40,000 – $60,000
- Level of Rarity: Semi-rare
- Top Features: 5.0-liter V8 engine, Recaro seats, and aerodynamic design
The 2012 Boss 302 Laguna Seca was built for the track.
It has a 5.0-liter V8, delivering 444 horsepower. If you are a Mustang enthusiast who enjoys all the extras, this one would be a hit. It features Recaro seats, aerodynamic tweaks, and a Torsen differential.
Part 3: Collector’s Favorites: Rare and Valuable Mustangs
These rare and valuable Mustangs sell for the highest prices at auctions. Known for their limited production numbers and significant performance enhancements, you may invest a bit more into these collector’s favorites.
#1: 1969 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Cobra Jet
- Year of Release: 1969
- Average Cost Today: $150,000 – $250,000
- Level of Rarity: Very rare
- Top Features: Its 428 cubic-inch V8 engine and distinctive styling
The ‘69 GT500 Cobra Jet had a 428 cubic-inch V8 engine and boasted a 335-horsepower rating. However, its distinctive styling helped this model stand out. The GT500 Cobra had a fiberglass front end and a unique front grille. These are hard to miss!
#2: 1993 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra
- Year of Release: 1993
- Average Cost Today: $20,000 – $40,000
- Level of Rarity: Semi-rare
- Top Feature: Limited edition with a 5.0-liter V8 engine
The ‘93 SVT Cobra was a limited-edition model. Its 5.0-liter V8 engine was good for 235 horsepower, not the most powerful of all Mustangs. You may have a hard time finding one of these.
#3: 2004 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra (Mystichrome)
- Year of Release: 2004
- Average cost Today: $30,000 – $50,000
- Level of Rarity: Semi-rare
- Top Features: Its color-changing paint and supercharged engine
The 2004 SVT Cobra Mystichrome had color-changing paint. That in and of itself makes this one stand out. To sweeten the deal, it also has a supercharged engine that produces 390 horsepower. The 2004 Mustang SVT had a great mix of visual appeal and on-road performance; some say it rivaled the SVT Cobra R.
Part 4: Best Used Mustangs to Buy Right Now
If you don’t want to splurge on a collector’s model, these are some of the best-used Mustangs to buy right now. With these Ford Mustang models, you’ll get a mix of value and performance.
#1: 2007-2009 Mustang GT500
- Year of Release: 2007-2009
- Average Cost Today: $30,000 – $50,000
- Level of Rarity: Easy to find
- Top Features:: Supercharged engine
The 2007-2009 GT500 is a perfect entry-point vehicle for anyone interested in starting a Mustang collection. With its supercharged engine and a wealth of aftermarket parts available, it’s up to you whether to refurbish this one or let it be!
#2: 2015-2017 Mustang GT
- Year of Release: 2015-2017
- Average Cost Today: $25,000 – $40,000
- Level of Rarity: Easy to find
- Top Features: The Gen 2 Coyote engine and independent rear suspension
The 2015-2017 Mustang GT is a modern classic. The Mustang GT has an independent rear suspension. You’ll find this will help it handle a little better without sacrificing speed.
#3: 1996-1998 Mustang Cobra
- Year of Release: 1996-1998
- Average Cost Today: $10,000 – $20,000
- Level of Rarity: Easy to find
- Top Feature: Its DOHC V8 engine delivers 305 horsepower
If you want a Mustang at a reasonable price, the 1996 to 1998 Mustang Cobra could be a great choice. Its DOHC V8 engine delivers 305 horsepower. In addition, you can find used models in the $10,000 to $20,000 range; a big difference from some of those older Shelby models!
Summary
Whether a first-time classic car buyer or a long-time collector, car enthusiasts know you must store your Mustang in a safe, dry, and affordable place. If you are running out of room in your garage, consider Neighbor. With Neighbor, a peer-to-peer storage marketplace, you can find a private residential garage, a parking garage, or even a luxury car storage facility all in your neighborhood. The best part about it is that you will save money, and you can then invest in your Mustang!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Is Mustang’s Top Model?
The 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is regarded as the top model for its 760 horsepower supercharged V8 engine and advanced performance features.
What Year Had the Best Mustangs?
The year 1969 is known to have produced some of the best Mustangs, including the Boss 429 and the Shelby GT500.
Which Is the Fastest Mustang?
The 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is the fastest production Mustang, capable of reaching speeds of 202 mph.
