Why the 2014 Mustang GT Is Among the Best
As an avid car lover, it should be noted that Mustang holds a special place in my heart. With that being said, it’s unbelievable that this special breed of car has been around for more than half a century. Over 10-million Mustangs were produced during that time.
The level of consistency and innovation that Ford has displayed over the years towards the Mustang is commendable, and I’m happy that the automaker is still producing Mustangs. It’s also a pleasure when one of these classic vehicles becomes available for sale on our car lot.
Therefore, it shouldn’t be too surprising to anyone that the next generation of Mustang, expected for release in 2023, is being highly anticipated by Mustang enthusiasts and car lovers alike.
Mustang’s Seventh Generation is Coming
The Ford Motor Company has shared few details about what we can expect in the 2023 Mustang. However, of what we do know, we’re already wondering if the first release of Ford’s seventh generation of Mustangs has the chops to become a fan favourite?
While we don’t expect it to beat out collector favourites such as the 1968 Ford Mustang California Special, or a Ford Shelby Mustang GT350. But, we are curious if it can de-throne other Mustang models that stand out.
For example, will it beat out the 2014 Mustang GT, a model that, in our opinion, is one of the best Mustang cars produced in recent years?
Let’s take a look at what we know about the seventh generation of Mustangs so far.
Seventh Generation Mustang
As of 2023, we can expect to see the following in the next generation of Ford Mustang cars:
- Option for a hybrid engine
- Option for a fully electric engine in 2028
- 2023 Mustang known internally at Ford as S650
- Coyote V8 engine, 2.3L 4-cylinder Ecoboost and Predator 5.2L engine options
While these details are likely what you expected, consider that Mustang cars have always been designed with the driver’s needs in mind. With that in mind, it’s easy to imagine the next generation of Mustangs may be a real game-changer in how we perceive the modern-day muscle car.
Mustang Possibilities
The seventh-generation will likely mimic its modern predecessors with a sleek body, a ton of screens and presumably a more technologically advanced computer system. These aims are highly probable as Ford directs the Mustang to compete with other big car brands globally, including luxury car makers such as Porsche and Audi.
But for me, at least for now, the fourth generation is the best Mustang I have ever come across, particularly the 2014 Mustang GT. The following reasons will help give you a better understanding of my choice.
World Class 420-Horsepower V8
As expected, the seventh generation of Mustangs will also pack a V8 engine. That doesn’t make it a unique selling point, but my goodness, what an engine! It is a modern-day five-litre engine that purrs smoothly and produces some high revs. Many muscle car heads will argue that it’s not so muscle due to this fact.
To be honest, the engine feels like the 4.0-litre V8 in a BMW M3. This is generally a good thing. When they announced that the 2014 Mustang GT would have a V8 engine that produced 420 horsepower, I expected it to be a proper muscle engine. The quiet and reserved approach Ford took was surprising, but it’s one of the best features of this Mustang.
Track-Ready Performance
One of the major criticisms Mustangs come under is that they have a solid rear axle. This is then often given as a reason why import cars are better than Mustangs.
To the uninformed, this largely rings true. However, to the knowledgeable, this is just fiction.
The 2014 Mustang GT holds its own on the track. The car handles well and is a perfect tool for driving track. The steering is sharp, the brakes are strong, and the chassis keeps you planted, and it feels even better than a sophisticated import.
I gather they will make the rear suspension independent for the new generation Mustangs, which is a bummer. It’s not just a heritage feature as it gives you better launches at the drag strip.
Ford has engineered the Mustang’sMustang’s suspension so well that you hardly ever notice any handling issues. To me, you take away that solid axle, and you lose part of what has always made the Mustang cool.
Plenty of Technology
The 2014 Mustang GT is equipped with enough technology to meet your taste. It has a three-mode adjustable steering effort and an available “Track Apps” system that can record your acceleration runs and lap times. The gadgets in the car complement Mustang’s authentic muscle-car character.
In my book, this gem from Ford is among the greatest Mustangs ever produced.