Common questions about the 2021 Mustang

There is no question that buying a 2021 Mustang is the right decision. However, common questions do arise, like where to buy a new Ford Mustang and which model years are best? How long will a Mustang last and how reliable are they?

What Are the 2021 Mustang Models and Prices?

The S550 (sixth generation) range of Ford Mustangs launched in 2015 and has had regular updates since then, bringing the total to 10 models to choose from in 2021, ranging in price from $27,205 to $72,900. Here are the latest models, listed in price range order from lowest to highest:

• Ecoboost Fastback. Starting at $27,205.
• Ecoboost Premium Fastback. Starting at $32,225.
• Ecoboost Convertible. Starting at $32,705.
• GT Fastback. Starting at $36,285.
• Ecoboost Premium Convertible. Starting at $37,725.
• Premium Fastback. Starting at $40,285.
• Premium Convertible. Starting at $45,785.
• MACH 1. Starting at $53,400.
• MACH 1 Premium. Starting at $55,300.
• Shelby GT500. Starting at $72,900.

There’s also the Mustang Mach-E all-electric SUV model released in late 2020 and available early fall 2021. Starting at $42,895, the Mach-E qualifies for a federal tax credit of $7,500, so you can pick one up at around $35,395. The Mach-E GT model accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, doesn’t use gas, and has a 305-mile battery life range. This is definitely a model worth test driving.

How Reliable Is a Ford Mustang?

When it comes to car reliability, there are a lot of factors to consider. Besides the sticker price, exactly how much will the car cost you to maintain each year? According to the latest comparative car reliability research stats, the Mustang ranks highest against all other Ford models and is very reliable when compared to other popular car brands.

The stats show that at yearly maintenance costs of just $709, the Mustang is substantially cheaper to maintain and beats the industry average for maintenance frequency by a substantial margin. Compared to other brands, the Mustang is rated higher for long-term quality.

How Fast Can a 2021 Mustang Go?

How fast an S550 Mustang can go is really an irrelevant question seeing as Ford installs speed limiters on all stock models. In general terms, top speeds are governed to 155 mph. A 2021 Mustang GT500 has been recorded at a top speed of 182 mph. After heavy modification, a Ford GT became the world’s fastest car in 2017 when it hit a top speed of 293.3 mph over one mile, beating its previous top speed record of 283.2 mph set in 2012.

A more relevant indicator of how fast a 2021 Mustang can go is timing the car’s acceleration from standstill to 60 mph. The Ecoboost will do zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, the Mach 1 in 4.2 seconds, the Shelby GT500 in 3.7 seconds, and, surprisingly, the Mach-E hits 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds.

Is the Mustang’s Automatic Transmission Better Than Its Manual?

Ford provides Mustang buyers with a choice between the six-speed manual transmission or the 10-speed automatic. Overall, the 10-speed automatic transmission provides better fuel economy by decreasing engine rpm requirements without sacrificing low-gear acceleration speed. Think of it as a six-speed transmission with an extra four overdrive gears. In effect, the more gears a transmission has, the more flexibility exists for engine-to-wheel speed optimization.

Additionally, the automatic transmission comes with manual paddle shifters positioned within finger-grasping distance of the steering wheel. Technically, the 10L80 transmission has six automatic clutches that engage/disengage (dual-clutch) in pairs. Compared to conventional two-piece designs, its six-clutch system provides quicker response timing through integrated solenoid valve regulating.

Which U.S. State Buys the Most Mustang Cars?

According to an analysis of muscle cars with at least 400 horsepower, Texas is the most horsepower-hungry state. The data shows that 1% of all the passenger cars purchased in Texas are 400+ horsepower Ford Mustang models. That’s almost double the number of Ford Mustangs purchased in Florida, which equals the number purchased in Arizona. Massachusetts doesn’t feature in the top ten states of Mustang owners, but  Brewster, New York, is a premier destination for buying new and used Mustangs.

Leasing vs. Buying a 2021 Mustang — Which Is Better?

In effect, leasing is a bit like renting a brand new Mustang and then swapping it for the latest model after a few years. Leasing is a great option if you want to stay on-trend while avoiding long-term financial and maintenance burdens. The benefits of leasing include:

• No deposit. Leasing agreements do not require a down payment, although you can reduce monthly installments by opting to include a deposit.
• Low monthly costs. Besides lower installment costs compared to buying, you’ll also save on car insurance and general maintenance costs as these are covered by the lessor.
• Short-term commitment. Lease agreements typically last for 24, 36, or 48 months. At the end of the contract term, you can decide if you want to purchase it outright, exchange it for the latest Mustang model, or upgrade it for a higher spec model.

Compared to leasing, buying a brand-new Mustang means you’ll own it outright. If you plan to modify your Mustang with an aftermarket engine upgrade or body parts, then buying is a better option. Other benefits of buying include:

• No restrictions. You won’t have to worry about mileage limitations, which are usually placed on vehicle lease contracts.
• Long-term equity. If you finance the car, the deposit and monthly payments go to paying off and reducing the loan amount over time, thereby increasing the equity you hold. That equity can then be used as trade-in value against a new Mustang in the future.

Which option is better really depends on your personal circumstances and preferences. For expert buy or lease advice, speak to your local Ford dealer.

If you’re considering a 2021 Ford Mustang, feel free to contact us at Brewster Ford. We are proud to serve the Brewster, New York, community and would be happy to help you choose the Mustang that’s right for you.

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