The Ford Mustang has been in continuous production since 1964, evolving through six generations with countless mid-cycle refreshes and performance variants. Over the years, the Mustang has cultivated a reputation for street cred, nostalgia, and performance, and that goes for everyone, from the OGs who grew up with the old muscle car 'Stangs to the new school that we're in right now, with classic looks mixed with new innovations for the 21st century.

With all this variety in a deeply iconic, uniquely American car, naturally the Mustang will have fans from across the spectrum, from purists who only want first-gen Mustangs in their driveways to kids who want the newest and sleekest. But which generation offers the best value today? From reliability to ease of modification, we’ll break down which version of the Mustang delivers the best bang for your buck.

Best Features of the First Generation Mustang (1965-1973)

The first-generation Mustang was an instant hit, selling over 400,000 units in its first year. Early models like the 1965-1966 Mustang became classics, with options ranging from a 200-horsepower V8 to the iconic GT350, which boasted a 306-horsepower K-code engine. Over the years, the Mustang grew in size and power, culminating in the monstrous GT500 with its 7.0-liter Police Interceptor engine.

While the early Mustangs are steeped in nostalgia, they are less practical for modern buyers. They can be difficult to maintain and, with gas prices and emissions regulations in play, the later years of this generation lost some of their performance appeal.

Best Features of the Second Generation Mustang (1974-1978)

The second-generation Mustang, often referred to as the Mustang II, was a response to the 1970s oil crisis. Based on the smaller Pinto platform, it offered fuel-efficient engines but lacked the muscle of earlier models. With its highest-performing model, the King Cobra, producing only 130 horsepower, this generation left much to be desired in the performance department.

Though it was practical at the time, the Mustang II is often remembered as one of the least popular versions. For enthusiasts today, it remains the least desirable option.

Best Features of the Third Generation Mustang (1979-1993)

The third-generation Mustang, built on Ford’s Fox platform, reintroduced the GT and Cobra nameplates. Early models struggled with awkward styling, but things improved dramatically in the 1980s. The return of the convertible and the introduction of turbocharged engines gave the Mustang a much-needed performance boost.

By 1987, the Mustang had embraced a sleeker, aerodynamic design. Models like the 5.0-liter GT became synonymous with street performance, offering an affordable and highly modifiable platform. This generation's highlight was the 1993 SVT Cobra, which paved the way for future high-performance Mustangs.

Best Features of the Fourth Generation Mustang (1994-2004)

The fourth generation, often referred to as the SN-95, kept the Mustang on the Fox platform but introduced a new design language. Early models retained the 5.0-liter engine, but by 1996, Ford replaced it with a more modern 4.6-liter V8. Special editions like the Mach 1 and Bullitt gave buyers more performance options, while the 2003-2004 SVT Cobra, also known as the Terminator, set new standards with a supercharged 390-horsepower engine and independent rear suspension.

This generation offered solid performance and collectibility but lacked some of the refinement seen in later models.

Best Features of the Fifth Generation Mustang (2005-2014)

The fifth-generation Mustang introduced a retro design inspired by the 1960s fastback. With a 4.6-liter V8 producing 300 horsepower, the Mustang returned to its roots. Special models, including the Boss 302 and GT500, raised the bar further, with the GT500 producing a staggering 660 horsepower by the end of the generation.

This generation marked the beginning of the modern horsepower wars, with improved performance and styling. However, it wasn’t until 2011, with the introduction of the 5.0-liter Coyote engine, that the Mustang truly entered the modern era of performance.

Best Features of the Sixth Generation Mustang (2015-2023)

The sixth-generation Mustang brought the most significant changes yet. For the first time, independent rear suspension became standard across the lineup. The new Coyote engine delivered even more power, and Ford introduced a 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine to appeal to a wider audience.

Performance models like the GT350 redefined the Mustang's capabilities with a 5.2-liter flat-plane crank V8, while the 2020 GT500 took things even further with 750 horsepower. This generation also brought significant interior upgrades, making the Mustang more comfortable and modern. With these enhancements, the Mustang became not just a great performance car but a well-rounded vehicle suitable for daily driving and track days alike.

Best Features of the Seventh Generation Mustang (2024-Present)

Of course, we can't forget about the newest Mustang generation, produced for the 2024 model year and onwards. Originally unveiled to the public at the 2022 Detroit Auto Show, the Mustang's seventh and current generation offers three engines: a redesigned 315-horsepower EcoBoost, a 486-horsepower 4th-gen Coyote V8 in the GT, and a 500-horsepower V8 in the "Dark Horse" trim.

For this current generation, Ford doubled down on the Mustang's role as a track car, with many race-ready models produced. That alone gives the lineup promise as the years go on, but as it's such a new player in the market, it's far too soon to determine whether or not it's worth it for your pennies quite yet.

Conclusion: What Is The Best Mustang Generation for Your Money?

While every generation of the Mustang has its highlights, the sixth generation offers the best overall package. It combines modern performance, reliability, and ease of modification with improved interior quality. Whether you’re looking for a turbocharged four-cylinder or a high-performance GT500, this generation delivers on all fronts. Ford has truly elevated the Mustang from a nostalgic icon to a serious contender in the performance world.

If you’re in the market for a Mustang, the sixth generation offers the best value for your money. It’s a well-rounded, reliable, and powerful option that reflects everything enthusiasts love about the Mustang name.

Shop Wheels, Tires and Suspension For The Ford Mustang at Fitment Industries

We hope you enjoyed taking a look through the Mustang's history with us, and if you disagree with our assessments be sure to let us know - we always welcome civil discourse about iconic car models like the Mustang.

Of course, if you already have one of these ponies at home and you're looking to custom build it, we can help. First, check out our gallery where you'll find some of the best Mustang setups from fellow enthusiasts, then head over to our inventory and build your wheel and tire package for yourself. Financing, free shipping, and quick delivery are all available on everything we've got in stock!