2007 Ford Mustang [ 2009 , 2008 ]
Ford Mustang
Overall Score - 8.5 (Very Good)
The Mustang delivers jaw-dropping looks and good power from its V8 engines, but can't match the interior accommodations of others in its class. If you're in the market for a sports car, also consider the Nissan 350Z.
The 2007 Ford Mustang, reviewers find, offers powerful V8 performance, reassuring crash test scores and a remarkable exterior that draws upon the model's long and storied lineage. The New York Times says, "Once, the Mustang captured the sense of fun and freedom that represented the best of American cars. Once again, Mustang -- now over 40 and having outlived its original competitors -- demonstrates Ford's determination to keep that spirit alive." The Boston Globe calls the Mustang "fun to look at, fun to drive, fun to just sit in and reminisce." Nostalgia isn't all the Mustang has going for it, however. The Detroit Free Press claims that the "Mustang is in many ways the embodiment of all Ford would like to be: stylish, affordable and exciting."
The Mustang comes in three trim levels: V6, GT and Shelby GT500. Each trim is also available as a Deluxe or Premium model. For 2007, Consumer Guide names the Mustang a "Recommended" pick, explaining: "Our Recommended label applies mainly to the GT versions, but V6 Mustangs also have some bang-for-the-buck appeal. They rival some sporty imports on price, though not agility, refinement, or overall quality. GTs deliver great 'go' for relatively little dough. GT500 offers even higher performance at a reasonable price, but its interior isn't as special as the rest of the car."
The Detroit News compares the Mustang with the Pontiac GTO "to get a better idea of their strengths and failings, and how they measure up against each other in a number of categories, from straight-line acceleration to ride, handling, comfort and amenities." The GTO wins in every category except exterior styling, but costs significantly more than the Mustang. Forbes finds, "The Mustang is an excellent value, offering more style and performance than most vehicles in its price range." For predicted five-year total cost of ownership compared to other cars in its class, IntelliChoice gives the V6 a rating of "Average," the GT a rating of "Better Than Average," and the Shelby GT500 a rating of "Worse Than Average." The Mustang is also available as a convertible.
Mustang Performance - 8.2 (Very Good)
Reviewers are impressed by the Ford Mustang's performance, finding it to be a true sports car with just enough -- but not too much -- practicality. Edmunds counsels that if you're looking for a car "that's fast and fun, yet comfortable enough to drive every day, the 2007 Ford Mustang should be on your short list of candidates." continue
Mustang Exterior - 8.5 (Very Good)
When it comes to exterior styling, reviewers are nearly unanimous in deciding the Mustang to be exceptional. The Los Angeles Times writes, "The car looks badass, brooding, hunched over and malevolent, like it was contemplating the first punch of a bar brawl. Just about perfect." continue
Mustang Interior - 6.8 (Mediocre)
Like its exterior, the interior of the Mustang reflects its roots, and reviewers like the design. MarketWatch says, "The interior of the new Mustang has just the right touches -- both retro and modern -- to make it work." The most common reviewer complaint concerns the quality of materials throughout the cabin. continue
Mustang Safety - 9.1 (Excellent)
The Ford Mustang includes standard and optional safety features similar to its competitors. It performs well in government crash tests, receiving 5 of 5 stars in frontal crashes. In side impact crash tests, it earns 4 of 5 stars for front-seat protection, but wasn't tested for back-seat protection. continue
Mustang Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2007 Ford Mustang reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Ford offers competitive warranty coverage on all of its cars, including a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. continue
