Ford Mustang (4th generation) vs. Ford Mustang (5th generation)

Stock Motor

Ford Mustang (4th Generation):

0-60 Acceleration: The fourth-generation Mustang achieves a 0-60 mph time that varies depending on the engine and trim level, typically ranging from 5.5 to 6.5 seconds.

Torque: The torque output of the stock motors in the fourth-generation Mustang varies across different engine options, with values typically ranging from 225 lb-ft to 320 lb-ft.

Horsepower: The horsepower ratings of the fourth-generation Mustang range from around 190 to 390 horsepower, depending on the engine configuration and trim level.

Top Speed: The top speed of the fourth-generation Mustang varies among different models but generally falls within the range of 130 to 155 mph.

Quarter Mile Time: The quarter-mile time of the fourth-generation Mustang typically ranges from the low 14-second to mid-15-second range, depending on the engine and trim.

Lap Times: Official lap times for the fourth-generation Mustang are not readily available, as lap times are dependent on driver skill and various factors such as tires and track conditions.

Powertrain Configuration: The fourth-generation Mustang features a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, providing a classic muscle car driving experience.

Transmission Type: The stock transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic, offering drivers a choice between engaging manual shifting or convenient automatic operation.

Power-to-Weight Ratio: The power-to-weight ratio of the fourth-generation Mustang varies depending on the engine and trim level, typically ranging from 11 to 14 pounds per horsepower.

RPM (Shaft Speed): The engine in the fourth-generation Mustang achieves its maximum power output at varying RPM ranges, depending on the specific engine variant.

Ford Mustang (5th Generation):

0-60 Acceleration: The fifth-generation Mustang delivers impressive 0-60 mph times, ranging from 4.5 to 5.5 seconds, depending on the engine and trim level.

Torque: The torque output of the stock motors in the fifth-generation Mustang ranges from around 240 lb-ft to 390 lb-ft, depending on the engine configuration and trim level.

Horsepower: The horsepower ratings of the fifth-generation Mustang range from approximately 210 to 550 horsepower, depending on the engine and trim level.

Top Speed: The top speed of the fifth-generation Mustang varies depending on the model and engine, typically falling within the range of 145 to 180 mph.

Quarter Mile Time: The quarter-mile time of the fifth-generation Mustang typically ranges from the low 12-second to mid-13-second range, depending on the engine and trim.

Lap Times: Official lap times for the fifth-generation Mustang are not readily available, as lap times can vary depending on factors such as driver skill, tires, and track conditions.

Powertrain Configuration: The fifth-generation Mustang also features a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, staying true to its muscle car heritage.

Transmission Type: The stock transmission options include a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, and a 6-speed automatic, providing a range of options for shifting preferences.

Power-to-Weight Ratio: The power-to-weight ratio of the fifth-generation Mustang ranges from approximately 7 to 12 pounds per horsepower, depending on the engine and trim level.

RPM (Shaft Speed): The engine in the fifth-generation Mustang achieves its maximum power output at varying RPM ranges, depending on the specific engine variant.

Tuning Ability

Intake Upgrades:

Ford Mustang (4th Generation): For the fourth-generation Mustang, popular aftermarket intake options include:

K&N Cold Air Intake Kit

BBK Power Plus Series Performance Throttle Body

Airaid Modular Intake Tube

Ford Mustang (5th Generation): The fifth-generation Mustang benefits from several top-notch intake upgrades, such as:

Roush Performance Cold Air Intake

JLT Performance Cold Air Intake

Steeda ProFlow Cold Air Intake Kit

Exhaust Systems:

Ford Mustang (4th Generation): Upgrading the exhaust system of the fourth-generation Mustang can be achieved with products like:

Borla Cat-Back Exhaust System

MagnaFlow Performance Exhaust

Flowmaster American Thunder Exhaust Kit

Ford Mustang (5th Generation): The fifth-generation Mustang offers various exhaust upgrade options, such as:

Corsa Xtreme Cat-Back Exhaust System

Borla S-Type Cat-Back Exhaust System

MagnaFlow Competition Series Exhaust Kit

Forced Induction:

Ford Mustang (4th Generation): The fourth-generation Mustang can be equipped with aftermarket forced induction systems, including:

ProCharger Supercharger Kit

Vortech V-3 Si Supercharger Kit

Hellion Twin Turbo Kit

Ford Mustang (5th Generation): The fifth-generation Mustang provides excellent options for forced induction, such as:

Whipple Supercharger Kit

ProCharger Stage II Intercooled Supercharger System

Hellion Twin Turbo System

Fuel Management:

Ford Mustang (4th Generation): Upgrading the fuel management system in the fourth-generation Mustang is crucial for optimized performance, and popular options include:

SCT X4 Power Flash Programmer

DiabloSport inTune i3 Programmer

AEM Performance Electronics Fuel/Ignition Controller

Ford Mustang (5th Generation): The fifth-generation Mustang benefits from advanced fuel management systems, such as:

HP Tuners VCM Suite Tuning and Scanning Software

Diablosport Trinity 2 EX Performance Programmer

AEM Infinity Programmable EMS

Ignition Systems:

Ford Mustang (4th Generation): Upgrading the ignition system of the fourth-generation Mustang can be achieved with products like:

MSD Ignition Coil Packs

NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs

MSD Digital 6AL Ignition Controller

Ford Mustang (5th Generation): The fifth-generation Mustang offers various ignition upgrade options, such as:

Ford Performance High-Output Ignition Coils

NGK Laser Iridium Spark Plugs

MSD 6AL-2 Ignition Controller

Suspension

Ford Mustang (4th Generation):

Front Suspension: The fourth-generation Mustang features a MacPherson strut front suspension, providing a balance of comfort and precise handling.

Rear Suspension: The rear suspension of the fourth-generation Mustang incorporates a solid axle design, offering simplicity and durability.

Springs and Dampers: The suspension system of the fourth-generation Mustang utilizes coil springs and gas-charged dampers for controlled ride characteristics.

Stabilizer Bars: The front and rear stabilizer bars in the fourth-generation Mustang contribute to improved cornering stability and reduced body roll.

Performance Packages: Optional performance packages, such as the Mustang Cobra's "IRS" (Independent Rear Suspension) package, introduce independent rear suspension for enhanced handling.

Ford Mustang (5th Generation):

Front Suspension: The fifth-generation Mustang features a MacPherson strut front suspension, similar to its predecessor, providing a balance of comfort and handling.

Rear Suspension: The rear suspension of the fifth-generation Mustang introduces a new design with an improved three-link arrangement, enhancing both ride quality and handling characteristics.

Springs and Dampers: The suspension system of the fifth-generation Mustang utilizes coil springs and gas-charged dampers, similar to the fourth-generation, for improved control and response.

Stabilizer Bars: Like its predecessor, the fifth-generation Mustang incorporates front and rear stabilizer bars to minimize body roll during cornering.

Performance Packages: Optional performance packages, such as the Mustang GT's "Track Pack," enhance the suspension setup with stiffer springs, larger anti-roll bars, and performance-oriented dampers.

Differences:

Rear Suspension Design: The fourth-generation Mustang employs a solid axle rear suspension, while the fifth-generation introduces an improved three-link design, offering enhanced ride quality and handling characteristics.

Independent Rear Suspension (IRS): Some variants of the fourth-generation Mustang, such as the Mustang Cobra with the IRS package, offer the benefits of independent rear suspension, improving overall handling and ride comfort.

Improved Handling: The fifth-generation Mustang delivers improved handling dynamics, thanks to advancements in suspension geometry and the introduction of the improved three-link rear suspension.

Performance Packages: Both generations offer optional performance packages, but the fifth-generation's performance packages, such as the "Track Pack," provide more comprehensive suspension enhancements for enthusiasts seeking improved handling and track capabilities.

Interior

Ford Mustang (4th Generation):

Design: The interior design of the fourth-generation Mustang emphasizes a blend of retro and contemporary elements, featuring a driver-centric layout with a straightforward and functional design.

Materials: The fourth-generation Mustang incorporates a mix of materials, including plastics, cloth, and some optional leather upholstery, with quality and fit and finish varying based on trim levels.

Seating: The fourth-generation Mustang offers seating for up to four occupants, with comfortable front seats and a rear bench seat suitable for shorter trips.

Instrument Cluster: The instrument cluster in the fourth-generation Mustang typically includes analog gauges for speed, RPM, fuel level, and engine temperature, along with auxiliary gauges for additional information.

Infotainment: The fourth-generation Mustang offers basic infotainment features such as AM/FM radio, CD player, and optional upgrades for premium audio systems.

Ford Mustang (5th Generation):

Design: The interior design of the fifth-generation Mustang takes a more modern approach, incorporating a sleeker and refined aesthetic with improved ergonomics and overall fit and finish.

Materials: The fifth-generation Mustang utilizes higher-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces, aluminum accents, and improved upholstery options, enhancing the overall perceived quality.

Seating: The fifth-generation Mustang features more supportive and comfortable seats, providing improved long-distance comfort and bolstering for spirited driving.

Instrument Cluster: The instrument cluster in the fifth-generation Mustang typically includes a combination of analog and digital displays, offering various customization options and additional information.

Infotainment: The fifth-generation Mustang introduces more advanced infotainment features, including touchscreen displays, navigation systems, smartphone integration, and optional premium audio systems.

Differences:

Design Philosophy: The fourth-generation Mustang offers a blend of retro and contemporary design elements, while the fifth-generation takes a more modern and refined approach.

Material Quality: The fifth-generation Mustang incorporates higher-quality materials and improved fit and finish, elevating the overall perceived quality of the interior.

Seating Comfort: The fifth-generation Mustang provides more supportive and comfortable seats, ensuring better long-distance comfort and enhanced bolstering for spirited driving.

Infotainment Technology: The fifth-generation Mustang introduces more advanced infotainment features and connectivity options, offering a more modern and connected driving experience.