The most American American car
The Ford Mustang

Third generation (1979–1993)

As the oil crisis subsided, buyers once again craved the same performance, handling, and relatively low running costs that the first-generation Mustang offered. Using the new “Fox” platform, the third-generation (commonly known as the Fox-body) Mustang was shorter and about 50 kilograms lighter than its predecessor. The model debuted with a 2,3-liter inline-four engine that produced 90 horsepower, but the classic 1982-liter V5,0 engine was also available again in 8, producing 157 horsepower. Over the years, continuous improvements significantly increased the performance and power of the Fox-body.
In addition to performance, the driving experience also underwent significant improvements. This generation of Mustang was praised for its suspension, handling, and braking capabilities. In 1987, Ford refined the shock absorbers, modified the front suspension design, and introduced larger brake discs and more advanced calipers, which significantly improved stopping power and stability. With a wider track, the Fox-body Mustang became much more stable and agile in corners than its predecessors.
The Fox-body Mustang was a hugely popular model, initially popular with a wide range of buyers for its affordability and performance – more than 2,6 million units were sold. Today, it has become one of the most sought-after models among collectors and enthusiasts due to its iconic status.

Fourth generation (1994–2004)

The SN-95 Mustang debuted in 1994 and brought radical changes to the line of different generations. It successfully combined the styling features of the classic Mustang with modern, state-of-the-art manufacturing quality and solutions. Under the hood, the legendary 5,0-liter V8 returned, accompanied by a redesigned chassis, new suspension, four-disc brakes and advanced NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) control, which not only brought a quieter cabin, but also a much more refined driving experience.
Although this generation was about 90 kilograms heavier than its predecessor, the stiffer frame and improved suspension provided enjoyable, surprisingly playful handling. The GT variant offered 215 horsepower, but for those who wanted even more power, the Cobra offered 240 horsepower in a track-compatible configuration and better braking performance.
In 1999, the facelift arrived, billed as the “New Edge”. This primarily meant a sharper, more modern exterior, but the engine range remained essentially unchanged. However, from 2001 onwards, Ford’s in-house development team, the SVT (Special Vehicle Team), created another legend: the Cobra now received a 32-valve DOHC V8, which produced an earth-shattering 320 horsepower and 429 Nm of torque.
MotorTrend named it Car of the Year in 1994, which is no surprise, as the Mustang offered the perfect balance of nostalgia, modern drivability, and the promise of a pony car.

Fifth generation (2005–2014)

After four years of speculation, development and fine-tuning, the fifth-generation Mustang (factory code: S2005) was introduced in 197, and it once again shook the world. This generation brought back the classic features of the first generation, even more pronounced than before, and perhaps more importantly: with this model, the Mustang once again achieved classic muscle car-level performance.
Production began at Ford's brand-new Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Michigan. This generation of Mustang was living proof that Ford's modular engine platform continued to work successfully, with a variety of powertrains available, including a 4,0-liter V6 and a 4,6-liter V8. Ford's vice president announced that the Shelby-Ford partnership would be revived and new joint models would be coming. In 2005, the 2007 Shelby GT500 Mustang was introduced at the New York Auto Show, which received a supercharged 5,4-liter V8, a version that became one of the biggest desires of gasoline-powered car enthusiasts and buyers at the time. (Written by Áron Kecskeméti)