Ford Mustang review

• For: Theatre, V8 engine, value for money
• Against: Thirst, limited practicality, feels big
• Verdict: Few cars offer as much drama for the price

In rational terms, the Ford Mustang makes no sense. There’s little space in the back, the boot is too small, the interior feels a bit downmarket, and its V8 engine seems out of touch in 2021.

There’s also the lingering memory of a headline-grabbing two-star Euro NCAP crash-test rating, although the Ford gained an extra star for safety following a reassessment.

Still, nobody buys a Mustang based on rational thinking.

The fact is, few cars offer as much theatre and show-stopping appeal as the Ford, especially for the less than £45,000. Rival sports cars usually cost more and offer half the number of cylinders.

Speaking of which, Ford no longer offers the four-pot 2.3-litre Ecoboost engine, which leaves only the big-chested 5.0 V8. Its soundtrack is intoxicating, performance is exhilarating and – shock horror – it actually handles very well.

Your main choices are between coupe and convertible body styles, and a six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic gearbox. There’s also a special edition Mach 1 with a sharper handling, shoutier styling and a token extra 10hp.

‘Mustang’ has now become a brand in its own right, led by the Mustang Mach-E electric SUV. But we’ve got a soft spot for the good ol’ original.

KEY INFO

• Launched: 2015
• Facelifted: 2018
• Due for replacement: 2026