The Ford Mustang, an icon of American automotive prowess and culture, entered its seventh generation in 2024, continuing a legacy that spans nearly six decades. The Ford Mustang VII GT 5.0 V8 (446 Hp) SelectShift represents the latest iteration of the quintessential pony car, blending its revered heritage with cutting-edge technology and enhanced performance. This particular variant, a two-door fastback or coupe, is designed to deliver a visceral driving experience while offering modern amenities and improved efficiency. Positioned squarely in the competitive sports coupe segment, the seventh-generation Mustang GT aims to solidify its status as a global performance benchmark, particularly appealing to enthusiasts in its primary market, the United States, and extending its reach internationally.
Ford Mustang VII GT 5.0 V8 (446 Hp) SelectShift: A Modern American Muscle Car
The seventh-generation Mustang builds upon a foundation of performance and style established in 1964. It represents a significant evolution of the Mustang formula, retaining the core elements that define the car – a long hood, short deck, and powerful V8 engine – while incorporating advanced technologies to enhance its driving dynamics and overall appeal. The GT model, specifically, is the performance-oriented trim, offering a substantial increase in power and handling capabilities compared to the base EcoBoost variants.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Ford Mustang VII GT 5.0 V8 (446 Hp) SelectShift lies the formidable 5.0-liter “Coyote” V8 engine. This naturally aspirated engine is renowned for its exhilarating power delivery and distinctive exhaust note. It produces 446 horsepower at 7250 rpm, translating to 88.5 horsepower per liter. Torque output is equally impressive, reaching 398.28 lb.-ft. at 5100 rpm, providing strong acceleration throughout the rev range.
The Coyote engine features a V8 configuration with a DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain and Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing). This technology optimizes valve timing for both power and efficiency. A compression ratio of 12:1 and four valves per cylinder contribute to the engine’s performance. The engine utilizes a dual fuel injection system, combining direct injection and multi-port manifold injection for precise fuel control, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. A Start & Stop system is included to improve efficiency.
Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a responsive 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. This advanced gearbox enables rapid, seamless shifts, contributing to the Mustang GT’s acceleration. The car accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 155.34 mph (250 km/h). The weight-to-power ratio is 3.9 kg/Hp (253.3 Hp/tonne). Fuel efficiency is rated at a combined 19.3 US mpg (WLTP), with CO2 emissions of 278 g/km.
Design & Features
The seventh-generation Mustang maintains its iconic fastback silhouette while incorporating contemporary design elements. Available as a coupe or fastback, the car features a classic two-door layout and seating for four, though the rear seats are best suited for occasional use. Its dimensions are substantial, measuring 189.37 inches in length, 75.43 inches (82.56 inches with mirrors) in width, and 54.88 to 55.67 inches in height.
The Mustang VII GT boasts an independent McPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and an anti-roll bar for precise steering and stability. The rear features an independent multi-link spring suspension with a stabilizer, enhancing ride comfort and cornering grip. Braking performance is provided by large ventilated discs at all four corners (front: 15.35 x 1.42 inches, rear: 13.98 x 1.10 inches), coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Steering is electric rack and pinion, offering adjustable feel and efficiency.
The vehicle rides on staggered wheel and tire setups: 255/40 R19 tires on 9J x 19 rims at the front and 275/40 R19 tires on 9.5J x 19 rims at the rear. This configuration enhances both visual appeal and handling. Inside, the cabin features a driver-focused design with a fully digital instrument cluster, a large central infotainment touchscreen, advanced connectivity options, and a suite of driver-assistance systems. Trunk space is 13.45 cubic feet.
Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
| General Information | |
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Mustang |
| Generation | Mustang VII |
| Type (Engine) | GT 5.0 V8 (446 Hp) SelectShift |
| Start of Production | February, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion Engine |
| Body Type | Coupe, Fastback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Performance Specifications | |
| Combined Fuel Consumption (WLTP) | 19.3 US mpg (12.2 l/100 km) |
| CO2 Emissions (WLTP) | 278 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 seconds |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph (0-100 km/h) | 4.9 seconds |
| Maximum Speed | 155.34 mph (250 km/h) |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 3.9 kg/Hp (253.3 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm (306.6 Nm/tonne) |
| Engine Specifications | |
| Power | 446 Hp @ 7250 rpm |
| Power per Liter | 88.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 398.28 lb.-ft. @ 5100 rpm (540 Nm) |
| Engine Layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Coyote |
| Engine Displacement | 307.44 cu. in. (5038 cm3) |
| Number of Cylinders | 8 |
| Engine Configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 3.66 inches (93 mm) |
| Piston Stroke | 3.65 inches (92.7 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel Injection System | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Ti-VCT |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 10.04 US quarts (9.5 l) |
| Space, Volume & Weights | |
| Kerb Weight | 3882.34 lbs (1761 kg) |
| Max. Weight | 4784.03 lbs (2170 kg) |
| Max Load | 901.69 lbs (409 kg) |
| Trunk (Boot) Space – Minimum | 13.45 cu. ft. (381 l) |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 189.37 inches (4810 mm) |
| Width | 75.43 inches (1916 mm) |
| Width with Mirrors Folded | 77.95 inches (1980 mm) |
| Width Including Mirrors | 82.56 inches (2097 mm) |
| Height | 54.88 – 55.67 inches (1394-1414 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 107.05 inches (2719 mm) |
Legacy & Market Impact
The Ford Mustang’s legacy is deeply embedded in American automotive history, representing freedom, performance, and accessibility. The seventh-generation Ford Mustang VII GT 5.0 V8 (446 Hp) SelectShift continues this tradition, serving as a powerful flag-bearer for the brand in the performance segment. In the United States, it competes with the Chevrolet Camaro. The Mustang distinguishes itself with its blend of classic pony car aesthetics and modern engineering, appealing to a broad demographic.
The Mustang has cultivated a global following, becoming one of the best-selling sports coupes worldwide. This international appeal is a testament to its design and the allure of its V8 engine. The 2024 GT model, with its 5.0-liter V8 and 10-speed automatic transmission, reinforces the Mustang’s position as a performance bargain, offering high levels of power and handling at a competitive price.
