If we had to pick one of the most iconic cars that this country has ever made, it would have to be the Ford Mustang. Ford celebrated the Mustang’s 50-year mark with the debut of the 2015 model, however, that model year (and the one after) proved to have some issues, so you might want to avoid those ones. But what if you don’t want to spend the extra money on a newer Mustang? Then we suggest taking a look at a 2014 model.

The Mustang comes well-equipped

The 2014 model year was the last year in the fifth-generation (2005-2014) of the Mustang. There weren’t many changes for this new model year as the major updates included a couple of new paint color options and a revised Shelby GT500 model that now pushed 662 horsepower.

There are a few different trim levels to choose from: Base, GT, and Shelby GT500. If you’re looking to stay as frugal as possible, then the base Mustang comes equipped with the basic features including all of the power amenities, air conditioning, an AM/FM/CD player with auxiliary inputs, and adjustable steering feel.

If you want to add a little more to the interior, then opt for the GT trim or higher as they include a 4.2-inch touchscreen, ambient lighting, Recaro cloth seats, and a Shaker audio system. And if you like to one with the outside world, then a soft-cloth convertible option was also available.

Some enticing options are available

In case the standard equipment isn’t enough, then you may be able to find 2014 Mustangs equipped with optional packages that include navigation, heated front seats, and side scoops. Some may even have a Performance package that includes upgrades like Brembo brakes, leather Recaro seats, a stiffer suspension, and bigger wheels and tires.

Powerful powertrain choices

The base 2014 Mustang came with a 3.7-liter V6 engine under the hood, which produced 305 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. If you want more power, then you might want to stick to a GT model as it came with the well-known 5.0-liter V8 engine that pushed out 420 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. Both choices were mated to either a six-speed automatic or manual transmission.

But if for some reason, that’s not enough and you need even more, then we suggest finding a Shelby GT500, which was powered by a supercharged 5.8-liter V8 engine that produced a pavement-pounding 662 horsepower and 631 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel economy

Let’s face it, no one buys a Mustang for excellent gas mileage. But you might be happy to know that the V6 version was able to achieve 19 mpg in the city and up to 31 mpg on the highway, while the V8 was rated at 15 mpg in the city and up to 26 mpg on the highway.

Surprisingly, the GT500 was rated at 15 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway.

Performance

Why are we touting the 2014 Mustang so much? Well, if you want affordable performance, then it might have what you need. In V6 guise, the Mustang could reach 60 mph in 5.8 seconds and complete the quarter-mile in 14.4, besting the Camaro and the Challenger at the time.

The Mustang GT was able to pull off a 0-60 time of 4.8 seconds with a quarter-mile time of 13.2, and the GT500 can get to up to 60 from a standstill in just 4 seconds, according to Edmunds.

You can’t go wrong

When shopping for a 2014 Ford Mustang, you definitely can’t go wrong with any trim level that you end up choosing. In a current nationwide search, we’re seeing base models for sale in the $10,000 to $15,000 range, while GT models are selling for around $20,000. And if you want a GT500, then expect to see listings in the $40,000 range.

With those prices, and considering the performance that you get, it’s hard to beat a 2014 Mustang. The folks over at iseecars.com even rated it as one of their “Best Used Cars Under $20,000,” so if you’re curious, then jump on any classifieds and see what the hype is about.

We’re sure that the 2014 Mustang will be an affordable sports car that you don’t want to pass up.