Ford Mustang is a 60-year icon

Car manufacturers offer a massive amount of SUVs and pickup trucks, followed by a handful of sedans. But, what about sports cars? Only a few affordable models remain. 

Yet, one vehicle still going strong is the Ford Mustang. According to Ford’s website, it is the most popular sportscar ever made, with more than 10 million Mustangs sold throughout the years and around the world. 

The staying power since its 1964 debut includes the styling of a pony car created with a long hood and a short deck. The fast and iconic style — along with an affordable price point — boosts its popularity. 

I longed to break free from my SUV review rut, so I test drove a 2025 Mustang EcoBoost Coupe (the 2026 model is nearly identical with a couple different tech features). Mustangs today are currently in the seventh generation with no style changes since 2024. 

With Mustang’s 2.3 liter EcoBoost engine and 10-speed automatic transmission, this car ponied up some power. The two-door is labeled a four-passenger vehicle. I did hop in the backseat and was surprised that it wasn’t as cramped as I thought it might be. The seats were narrow, yet comfortable.

Sliding into driver’s seat is complicated. You have to sit sideways first, then swing your legs over. The low-to-the-ground seat hugged similar to a racecar. The flat-bottom, D-shaped steering wheel is designed for performance. A flat-bottom steering wheel increases leg room and makes it easier to slide in and out of the seat. However, getting out proved to be a little more difficult, thanks to a stiff low back.

Driving out of the dealership, I heard a low rumble and looked around. Was that my car making a thunderous sound? Yep. The Mustang has four different modes: normal, sport, quiet and track. Mine was on the track mode with the loudest exhaust settings. This dragster roar boomed against the slow vehicles around me. I hoped there would be another sports car next to me at the traffic light, challenging me to a race. Nope. Just a teen in a late-model Corolla checking her cellphone.

To truly feel the power, I needed to go fast and be away from traffic lights and other cars. So, I traveled a side road near Dallas Center. I could floor it — for research’s sake — and it took off quickly. Zero to 60 in under five seconds? Done. After hitting a few bumps on the twisty road, it handled swiftly and confidently. It was a blast. I’ve always liked speed. Just ask my insurance agent. 

Heading back to the dealer, I felt like I had been on a thrilling amusement park ride. That adrenalin rush, coupled with a big grin on my face, spelled excitement. I think I finally figured out the allure of sports cars on that short excursion in Dallas County. 

After a memorable drive, I pondered why more sports cars don’t exist. There’s still a need for speed and a desire for an sporty ride. And, for the price of $37,105, it just might be in your budget.

With more than 60 years of manufacturing the same sports car, you can bet on 60 more of speed and affordability with the Ford Mustang. 

My last words of advice? Try to go the speed limit. I dare you. ♦