Pondering a purchase......

[LM700]

Hello to all.
Sort of need some input from those in the know. I'm 70 and have owned several classic Mustangs over the years and have been seduced by the S550.
Here's my request. Before I go looking and purchasing, may I please hear from owners to tell me what they know about the strengths and weaknesses of this generation of Mustang. I'm leaning towards the the 2015-2017 but definitely like the 2018-2023. My goal is an automatic transmission GT no frills in yellow color. Any input would be appreciated.

All my best.

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[SnowFox]

Overall: I had 2017 and currently 22 Auto, you'll be happy either way. They have differences, but if you're just looking for a good ride with some power the subtle differences probably won't matter

I do like the transmission in the 22 better, but you'll find people that hate it to.

18+ came with the Gen 3 coyote, a bit more stock power, better intake manifold, higher compression ect. I can't recall the exact year they switched to both direct and port injection but it was after 18.

In 22 "technically" the Gen 3 coyote came with a bit less HP as Ford had to install a carbon filter/traps in the intake box to please the EPA overlords. Resulted in 10hp less than a 21 (but Ford also made it super easy to take out)

But again you'll probably find arguments one way or a other. But keep in mind for your described use, neither choice will be a bad choice.

 

[K4fxd]

The A10 is hit or miss. It can be clunky harsh especially on downshifts. The A6 is pretty good.

If you like tuning the 18 and newer has more capability as far as the ECU is concerned.

I like the look of the 15 to 17 a bit better than the 18 up.
You can't go wrong either way. Both need suspension upgrades if you like to push the car. if just wanting a smooth cruiser with power it is fine stock.
Beware lots of mustangs have been tuned. If you are not savvy on these bring someone who is with you before you buy.

 

[Cobra Jet]

What ever you do - be careful buying from a private party or unknown “mom-n-pop” little dealerships… you don’t want to get a S550 that has been tuned…. Too many people are getting bent over with buying a used S550 and finding out it’s been tuned when engine problems arise.

If buying from a Ford Dealer ask your Salesman for a complete OASIS report - just so you can verify any warranty history, repair history, and to make sure there are no open recalls.

 

[LM700]

Your info is much appreciated. All of you. Keep it coming. Yeah I am a total ignorant newbie when it comes to tuning. My previous Mustangs were all carbureted relics from a few eras ago. LOL. Can a tuned Mustang be detuned to factory specs and if so how would that be accomplished?
Thanks.

 

[K4fxd]

Can a tuned Mustang be detuned to factory specs and if so how would that be accomplished?

Depends on what mods if any have been done.

Best to buy from a real Ford dealer with a Ford certified used car certification. If you look around this forum you will find many horror stories of people buying cars that were tuned and not disclosed upon purchase.

 

[Jimmy Dean]

at 70, I would suggest one of the specials.

50th anniversary
Bullitt
Mach 1 (what I have)
GT 350 non track pack

reason is, you aren't looking to dog or clap the shit out of it, you want the go peddle to work right, but you want to look more refined doing it. And you can. And you will not feel bad not pushing the car all the time. I know plenty of just casual cruising special editions and they don't have to be revving it up and burning tires to get attention from folks. They can be driven normally and are still noticed and discussed.

 

[K4fxd]

Here is a link to the most current one. Guy bought car and a warranty and now finds the warranty is void due to a tune.
https://www.mustang6g.com/forums/threads/please-help-me-dispute-extended-warranty-denial.205632/

 

[sk47]

Hello; I have not yet owned a late model Mustang but have done some information searching. I believe the 2016 was the first to have a general IRS (independent rear suspension) for all. Some earlier year models (SVT maybe) had added on IRS but more run of the mill models had live axels before 2016.

Not sure if it still holds true but late model Mustangs I looked at had a place in the trunk where a spare can be fitted. A car without a spare I hope to avoid.

The Mustang, as far as I know, can run 87 octane fuel. Even the V8's.

 

[Timbuck]

You will like any of them , they are all great. I’m bias as I own a 2017 , 6r80. The best thing you could do is to drive some different models as see how they feel to you. also what type of driving your going to do with it might sway your decision.

maybe some guys on here are close to you and take you for a drive in theirs ?

 

[LM700]

You know, thanks for bringing up spare tires. I bought a 2012 Mustang V6 new and freaked out when I saw what I saw. I was a member of a local Mustang Club who had connections with MCA. When I told the club about it, they went "WHAT????" MCA was contacted and they went to Ford asking what the deal was. After a multitude of members writing in to Ford about it, Ford finally came out with a spare tire option. JEEZ it never occurred to me that there wasn't a spare tire anymore. LOL. Anyway do the S550's come with spares or is it an option, how does that work? Also do all GTs come with rear tires different from the front?

Thanks for your patience.

 

[Pistol_91]

Hello; I have not yet owned a late model Mustang but have done some information searching. I believe the 2016 was the first to have a general IRS (independent rear suspension) for all. Some earlier year models (SVT maybe) had added on IRS but more run of the mill models had live axels before 2016.

Not sure if it still holds true but late model Mustangs I looked at had a place in the trunk where a spare can be fitted. A car without a spare I hope to avoid.

The Mustang, as far as I know, can run 87 octane fuel. Even the V8's.

2003-04 cobras had the IRS.

OP you will be happy if you're just looking for a ride to enjoy. If I were you id buy a completely stock ride. I do agree with the other member on here, you may be happier with a model like a Mach 1. They're really sweet rides out of the box. Either automatic transmission you get (6 or 10 speed) depending on which gen you go with (2 or 3), I think youll be happy. As far as I know when it come to spare tires is they're options. I bought my 2020 brand new and it doesnt have a spare.

 

[S550HPP]

I would get from dealer only as certified used ...can probably find a '22 or '23 with no mods heavily discounted. Yellow seriously limits your options.

Can always get a color change wrap...

You'll probably want the premium package with memory seats only because drivers seat slides back all the way when car turns off very easy to get in and out of while having a correct driving position preprogrammed. I love this because it preserves side seat bolsters from getting beat.

I would not worry about the 10R80 2018+ a trans tune can solve all issues as long as doesn't have CFD defect, which would be warranty on 2020+.

IMO 2018+ looks better. Any of them are great incl Ecoboost obviously the premium trims like M1, GT350 etc look great and cost lot more.

 

[17MagMetal]

I have a 17 and the 15-17s are the superior front fascia. I’ll die on that hill.

I’d prefer more stock to modified while buying. I’ve modified my S550 and have taken great pride in doing things properly and with great thought. Potential buyers won’t appreciate it anyways and I don’t blame them.

As far as tuned cars go, I personally would feel good about buying a Ford Performance tuned car. If installed properly I don’t see any real issues (mine is a “power pack 3” car that has had no hiccups).

If you’re 70 and shopping automotive toys I would drop the extra coin to buy in stock shape, uber low miles (or “new”) and off the lot. Too many scumbag kids (me included) like to screw around with these cars because of their accessibility.

 

[LM700]

Wow guys these are all outstanding posts. Yes of course I'm concerned about getting a car that's been thrashed and such. Or over tuned. etc. You're right that my preference would be an absolutely bone stock GT in good shape and relatively low miles. There is a gorgeous yellow '18 GT here locally and looks great. But...it has a rebuilt title. Now I know that if even just the airbags go off, that can total a car but I don't want any problems with unknowns. LOL. At 70, I just want a nice driver that's reliable. I've owned a 70 Boss 302 (daily driver '79 to "84), 68 GT500, 66 GT350H, 65 GT Acode fastback, and a few others through the years. My number one priority on all of them reliability. Get in em, turn the key, and go. Served me well whenever I sold them for something else. Your opinions are extremely valuable to me and I thank you. Keep em coming.
All my best.

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