The Ford Mustang debuted in 1964 and was born out of a vision to create an affordable, stylish, and performance-oriented vehicle. Its classic long hood, short rear deck, and aggressive stance evolved over time and quickly became a symbol of freedom. Here are 15 of the most iconic Mustang models, featuring horsepower between 300 and 760.

2003 Ford SVT Cobra – 390 HP

The 2003 Ford SVT Cobra, also known as the “Terminator,” stands out in the Mustang lineage and is known for its delivery. It was a highly successful pony car built by the Ford Special Vehicle Team in 1980. The Cobra houses a supercharged 4.6-liter DOHC V8 engine, yielding 390 horsepower, 390 lb-ft of torque, and a Tremec T-56 six-speed manual transmission.

2005 Ford Boss 302 – 300 H

Ford’s 2005 Boss 302 is designed to deliver high performance and evoke the heritage of its namesake from the late 1960s. It features a 5.0-liter V8 engine. Additionally, the engine has high-flow aluminum heads and camshaft, enhancing power and efficiency. Robert Downey Jr., aka Iron Man, owned a first-generation Boss 302 but stripped it down and rebuilt it with iron-fiber body panels. 

2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 – 526 Hp

Only 100 Shelby GT350 models bore the 2015 model year designation. Of these, 50 came with the Technology Package and 50 with the Track Package, recognizing the GT350’s 50th anniversary. These Mustangs have a formidable 5.2-liter, 526-horsepower, V8 engine with 429 lb-ft of torque. Known as the “Voodoo” engine, the power plant is notable for its flat-plane crankshaft, a departure from the traditional cross-plane design.

2015 Ford Mustang Apollo Edition – 627 Hp

The Ford Mustang Apollo Edition’s power source is a 5.0-liter V8 engine enhanced with a Ford Performance supercharger. Producing 627 horsepower and 540 lb-ft of torque, the car performs extraordinarily. Additional upgrades include a sport-tuned suspension, six-piston Brembo brakes, and an improved exhaust unit. This special edition model, with a color scheme that connects it with NASA, once sold for $230k at a charity auction.

2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt – 480 Hp

This special edition Mustang is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 powerhouse with 480 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. Its increased horsepower over the standard Mustang GT is achieved through the intake manifold from the Shelby GT350 and an open-air induction system. The Bullitt has a white cue ball shift knob, emphasizing its retro appeal and connection to the classic film starring Steve McQueen.

2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 – 480 Hp

The news of Mach 1’s return after 17 years of absence elicited great excitement among most fans. As a powerful variant of the iconic Mustang lineage, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 blends track-ready capabilities and street-friendly dynamics. It offers optimum acceleration and efficiency, propelled by a 5.0-liter V8 engine. Its rev-matching technology, or a ten-speed automatic transmission, pairs easily with the car’s engine.

2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse – 500 Hp

The 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse combines modern technology with raw output. The engine features a dual-throttle body and a uniquely tuned exhaust unit that lets out a distinctive sound. A naturally aspirated 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine delivers 418 lb-ft of torque and 500 horsepower. 

2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost – 310 HP

With the 2024 Mustang EcoBoost, Ford took one of its most evolutionary approaches in its almost 60-year history. This car has a turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-4 engine generating 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Known to balance power and efficiency, the engine appeals to drivers seeking speed and fuel economy. It also has direct injection and twin independent variable cam timing (Ti-VCT).

2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E Select – 346 Hp

The Select, a 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E variant, has one electric motor that propels the rear wheels with 346 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. Its electric drivetrain has a 68 kWh battery pack, offering 230 miles on a full charge. With an emphasis on efficiency and practicality, the 2024 Mach-E Select was launched to compete with the famous Tesla Model Y. 

2023 Ford Mustang Fastback – 450 Hp

Since its inception in 1965, the Mustang Fastback has featured a range of engines, including inline-six and V8 options, catering to different needs and preferences. Designed by Gale Halderman in 1966, newer models like the 2023 edition have been equipped with modern EcoBoost and V8 engines, delivering impressive horsepower and torque. Its engine pairs with a manual or automatic transmission, combining heritage with contemporary engineering advancements.

Ford Mustang California Special – 300 Hp

The Ford Mustang California Special is among the most highly sought-after Mustang models ever made. It has a solid 5.0-liter V8 engine, yielding 480 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. The California Special distinguishes itself with unique exterior styling cues, including unique badging, a distinctive front grille design, and exclusive color options.

1969 Boss 429 Mustang – 375 Hp

In 1969, Ford released the Boss 429 Mustang with a legendary engine designed for NASCAR homologation. The 7.0-liter V8 power plant was developed by Ford specifically for high-performance applications, producing around 375 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. With semi-hemispherical combustion chambers and massive intake ports, the engine is designed to accommodate its large valves and optimize airflow. 

2024 Ford Mustang GT3 – 300 Hp

Based on the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse, this sports car was unveiled on the eve of the 2024 Le Mans in France. It features a 5.4-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine yielding 500 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque. Featuring a transaxle 6-speed gearbox, this engine offers high performance typical of American muscle cars. The GT includes enhancements like tuned suspensions, larger brakes, and a limited-slip differential.

2002 Saleen Mustang – 365 Hp

Former racing driver Steve Saleen was the mastermind behind the Saleen Mustang. He modified the vehicle’s brakes, suspension, and chassis until it became much faster. The 2002 version had a 4.6-liter V8 engine that produced 365 horsepower. Its efficient powertrain was enhanced with an optimized camshaft, upgraded fuel injectors, and a free-flowing exhaust system, contributing to its unique exhaust note and power delivery.

1996 Mystic Cobra – 305 Hp

This model is called “Mystic” for a reason: besides its expensive paint, the car always seemed to change color when viewed from a different angle. Key qualities of the 1996 Mystic Cobra’s 4.6-liter DOHC V8 engine include a modular aluminum block, a dual overhead camshaft, and a free-flowing exhaust unit. Paired with a Borg-Warner T-45 5-speed manual transmission, the engine produces 305 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.