Ford Mustang Celebrates 59th Birthday as the World’s Best-Selling Sports Car for the Last Decade
Happy 59th Birthday to the original pony car, the Ford Mustang, as it celebrates another sale milestone and its forthcoming 7th generation.
Fifty-nine years ago today, on April 17, 1964, Ford unveiled the Mustang at the New York World’s Fair, capturing the hearts of millions and marking the beginning of the pony car era. 20,000 orders were placed at the debut, with Ford producing 559,451 Mustangs for that first 1965 model year. Now, in 2023 on its 59th birthday, the Mustang continues to dominate the market as the world’s best-selling sports car for “10 years combined,” according to S&P Global Mobility.
Since its debut, the Ford Mustang has become a symbol of American muscle, performance, and automotive culture. The classic design and powerful engine options have attracted drivers from all walks of life, making it one of the most sought-after sports cars globally. With over 10 million Mustangs sold worldwide, the car has built a legacy that extends far beyond the borders of the United States. Sales were up last year in Germany, Britain, Switzerland and the Middle East. And the controversial Mustang Mach-E is now available in 39 countries worldwide.
2024 Mustang on the Horizon
The Ford Mustang’s 59th birthday is a celebration of not only its past but also its future. As the world’s best-selling sports car for 10 years combined, the Mustang has proven that it can adapt to changing times and maintain its position as a market leader. Later this year, we’ll see the debut of the 2024 Mustang with three familiar, but new engine variations.
Powered by a 2.3L turbo 4-cylinder, the Mustang EcoBoost now has an increased power output of 315 horsepower (on premium gas), the most for a 4 or 6-cylinder Mustang. It also boasts 350 lb.-ft. of torque and, thanks to Ford’s new Modular Power Cylinder (MPC) engine architecture, it should deliver 2 more mpg on the highway, up to 34.
The Mustang GT marks the debut of the fourth generation 5.0L Coyote V8, which includes a new dual throttle body and air intake system. In its base configuration, one can expect 480 horsepower and 415 ft.-lbs. of torque. But if one upgrades to the active valve exhaust, which requires the GT Performance Package, the numbers jump to 486 horsepower and 418 ft.-lb.
Last, we have the most powerful 5.0L Mustang ever made, the Dark Horse. Unlike the Mach 1 and Bullitt, which were effectively standard Coyotes with upgraded intakes, the Dark Horse Coyote variant features strengthened camshafts for track-durability needs, including extended operation closer to its 7,500-rpm redline, as well as a uniquely balanced crankshaft and forged piston connecting rods from the GT500. This motor puts out 500 horsepower and 418 ft-lbs. of torque.
Design & Heritage
In addition to its top-notch performance, the Mustang has consistently pushed the boundaries of design. The car’s exterior has undergone several transformations, from its original long-hood, short-deck design to the sleek, modern lines of today’s models. The interior has also seen significant updates, incorporating advanced technology and premium materials while maintaining the classic Mustang styling. These design changes have played a crucial role in keeping the Mustang relevant and desirable in the ever-evolving automotive landscape.
Plus, with the end of the Dodge Challenger this model year and the Chevrolet Camaro in 2024, the Ford Mustang will soon be the last remaining 2-door, V8-powered pony car/muscle car available with a manual transmission.
Happy birthday, Mustang! Here’s to many more years of horsepower, performance, and automotive excellence.
Photos: Ford Motor Company & Michael S. Palmer
