The 2024 Mustang GT stands out as one of the last American muscle cars offering real V8 performance at an accessible price. With its bold, blacked-out look, updated engine, and modern braking system, it gives off a strong, aggressive vibe on the road. The latest updates also show off new features inside and out, including full LED lighting, fresh wheel designs, and distinct accents.
When comparing the Mustang GT to other options like the Corvette C8 Stingray, it’s clear that both deliver strong performance and style in their own ways. The Mustang GT offers a classic experience, blending power, comfort, and the thrill of a traditional V8. Buyers get plenty of value and flexibility to personalize their ride while enjoying the feel and sound of a true muscle car.
Key Takeaways
- The 2024 Mustang GT offers a classic V8 muscle car experience.
- Strong performance and modern features set this model apart.
- It provides good value and customization options for enthusiasts.
2024 Mustang GT Overview
Styling and Purpose
The 2024 Mustang GT was built to capture attention with its bold and aggressive appearance. The front end stays true to traditional Mustang looks, keeping a familiar style that many muscle car fans expect. Under the hood, the engine remains in its classic spot, highlighting the Mustang’s long-standing design roots.
Big, black features like the hood, grille, and details across the car can give it a more intimidating look. The setup makes the Mustang GT look both powerful and ready for action while keeping its classic American muscle identity.
Standout Black Style Details
This model features a Black Appearance Package that adds several dark-themed touches:
- Gloss black grille with a black Pony emblem
- Black interior in the headlights
- LED front lights and turn signals
- Gloss black split-spoke 19-inch wheels
- Black roof (especially noticeable on lighter-colored cars)
- Black mirror caps and door handles
- Flat black side sills
- Blacked-out GT badge in the rear
- Black trunk lip spoiler
Performance Parts Include:
- Optional Brembo brake package with six-piston red calipers up front and four-piston calipers at the rear.
- Continental all-season tires, sized 255 on the width and 40 series for the sidewall, fitted to all four corners.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Brake Calipers (Front) | Optional red, six-piston Brembo |
| Brake Calipers (Rear) | Four-piston Brembo + e-brake |
| Wheel Size | 19-inch split-spoke, gloss black |
| Tire Size (All Corners) | 255 width, 40 sidewall |
| Roof | Gloss black (on Black Package) |
Paint and Feature Highlights
The 2024 Mustang GT comes in a deep, black paint known as Shadow Black. Combined with the blackout package, this color creates a dramatic look. The red brake calipers stand out against the black body and wheels, giving just a hint of extra style without being flashy.
- Shadow Black paint: gives the car a classic “murdered out” look
- Red brake calipers (with Mustang badge): add a pop of color
- Gloss and flat black finishes: appear on the grille, lower lip, wheels, and other parts
- Sequential tail lights: maintain the signature Mustang look
The combination of black details and small red highlights gives the 2024 Mustang GT a strong, unique presence on the road.
Performance and Engine Details
5.0-Liter Coyote V8 Powerplant
The 2024 Mustang GT uses a Coyote 5.0-liter V8. This engine has been updated for the latest model year. It produces 486 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque. It uses an overhead cam design, allowing the engine to rev higher than older pushrod V8s, with a redline of 7,500 RPM.
Gearbox Choices
Buyers have two transmissions to pick from:
- 10-speed automatic (as seen in the featured car)
- 6-speed manual
The automatic is a traditional torque converter design, while the manual offers more driver involvement.
Power Output and Torque
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 486 hp |
| Torque | 418 lb-ft |
| Redline | 7,500 RPM |
The power is available across a wide rev range. The high redline allows for strong acceleration and flexibility.
0-60 MPH and Max Speed
- 0 to 60 mph: about 3.9 seconds
- Quarter mile: 12.3 seconds at 116 mph
- Top speed: 155 mph
The car weighs 3,947 lbs, so performance is strong for a muscle car in this class.
Exhaust Note and System
The Mustang GT uses a quad-tip active exhaust system. This setup lets drivers control how loud the car sounds. There are settings for a quieter tone and a much louder, growling V8 sound for a more aggressive experience. The slash-cut, staggered exhaust tips add to the car’s sporty appearance.
Braking and Suspension Technology
High-Performance Brake System
This Mustang GT comes with the optional upgraded braking kit, featuring large, bright red calipers designed and built for stopping power. Up front, it uses six-piston calipers that really stand out behind the wheels. Each caliper even has the Mustang logo for extra style. Out back, the car is fitted with four-piston calipers, plus a separate caliper dedicated to the electric parking brake.
Brake Breakdown:
| Position | Number of Pistons | Color Options | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front | 6 | Red, Others | Mustang logo on face |
| Rear | 4 | Red, Others | Separate E-brake unit |
Tire and Wheel Choice
The car sits on 19-inch gloss black wheels with a split-spoke design. All four corners are equipped with 255mm wide tires, providing an even grip setup. These are Continental all-season tires, which are good for everyday driving and burnouts but may not deliver the most traction in aggressive corners or intense acceleration. Many may expect 20-inch wheels with a performance package, but this model keeps the 19-inch size.
- Wheel Size: 19 inches, split-spoke design, gloss black
- Tire Dimensions: 255/40 on all corners
- Type: Continental all-season
Ride and Road Feel
The Mustang maintains a classic front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. All four tires have the same width, which supports a balanced ride but could limit rear grip when putting power to the pavement, especially compared to a mid-engine sports car. The suspension helps keep the car stable and steady, while the active exhaust system offers adjustable sound for a more engaging drive. The car’s lower stance and the blackout package lend it a strong and planted look, matching the performance gear underneath.
- Traditional front-engine placement
- Even tire sizes front and rear
- Active exhaust for custom sound
- Stable road presence with blackout styling
Body Design Features and Airflow
Distinctive Front Appearance
The front of the 2024 Mustang GT stands out with its shadow black paint and blackout package. The grille features a high-gloss black pony badge, and the gloss black lower lip adds to its aggressive styling. The headlights use full LED technology, including LED daytime running lights and integrated turn signals. The interior part of the headlights is also finished in black for a uniform look. While there are vents on the front, only some are functional. The hood is large and features gloss black heat extractors, and there’s a flat black lower grille section.
Side View Highlights
On the side, the blackout package adds gloss black split-spoke wheels, measuring 19 inches, wrapped in Continental all-season tires. The tires are size 255 with a 40-series sidewall at all four corners. Red six-piston Brembo calipers in the front and four-piston calipers in the rear provide stopping power and add a strong visual contrast. The side mirrors get a gloss black finish along with LED turn signals, and the door handles continue the shadow black theme. There is subtle flat black trim along the lower sides, and a blacked-out “5.0” badge marks the V8 engine.
Rear Aero Details and Spoiler
The rear features a blacked-out trunk lid spoiler from the blackout package. The GT badge is also blacked out, complementing the overall look. Classic Mustang sequential taillights are present. At the bottom, there is a well-shaped rear diffuser with quad active exhaust outlets that can be adjusted for sound. The exhaust openings are slash-cut and slightly staggered for a sportier effect.
Interior Features and Comfort
Inside the 2024 Mustang GT, the interior focuses on a simple and straightforward design. The door panels have a clean look that avoids unnecessary decorations. Materials feel sturdy, offering a balance of comfort and function.
The black-on-black color scheme matches with the exterior, adding a sense of unity throughout the car. Red Brembo brake calipers outside are a standout detail, while inside, controls and displays are clear and easy to reach.
Here are some key interior highlights:
- Simple, uncluttered door panels
- Consistent black interior theme
- Buttons and switches within easy reach
- Supportive seats for a sporty feel
The Mustang GT offers a driving space that makes both the driver and passengers feel involved in the car experience. It’s built for those who want their interior to match the car’s powerful style without extra flash.
Mustang GT vs. Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray
Powertrain Overview
The 2024 Mustang GT uses a 5.0-liter Coyote V8 that is updated to deliver 486 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque. The C8 Corvette Stingray features a 6.2-liter LT2 V8, producing 490 horsepower, so it has a slight edge in power.
Both cars use V8 engines, but their designs are different. The Mustang’s engine is overhead cam with a higher redline at 7,500 RPM, while the Corvette uses a more traditional pushrod setup and tops out at 6,700 RPM.
| Model | Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque | Redline (RPM) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mustang GT | 5.0L OHC V8 | 486 hp | 418 lb-ft | 7,500 |
| Corvette C8 | 6.2L OHV V8 | 490 hp | – | 6,700 |
Gearbox Choices
The Mustang GT offers a 10-speed automatic transmission and also has a manual option for those who want a more hands-on feel. This automatic uses a torque converter design.
The Corvette C8 comes only with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic. This gives the Corvette super quick shifts, which helps with track performance and daily driving smoothness.
- Mustang GT: 10-speed automatic (torque converter) or 6-speed manual
- Corvette C8: 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
Acceleration and Specs
Both vehicles weigh about the same, with the Mustang coming in around 3,947 pounds. The Mustang GT can go from 0-60 mph in about 3.9 seconds. The quarter-mile time is 12.3 seconds at 116 mph, and its top speed is 155 mph.
The Corvette gets its power to the ground more effectively, thanks to its mid-engine setup. The Corvette’s quicker shifts and extra grip help it edge out the Mustang in acceleration.
| Model | 0-60 mph | 1/4 Mile (sec @ mph) | Top Speed (mph) | Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mustang GT | ~3.9 sec | 12.3 @ 116 | 155 | 3,947 |
| Corvette C8 | Faster* | – | Higher* | ~3,950 |
*Actual Corvette C8 acceleration and top speed details may vary based on exact configuration, but it is notably quicker than the Mustang GT.
In-the-Seat Impressions
The Mustang GT comes with a traditional front-engine layout and classic muscle car feel. It offers a more traditional look and is known for a throaty exhaust note, especially with the active exhaust system. The steering and driving experience keep the muscle vibe alive.
The Corvette, on the other hand, feels more futuristic with its mid-engine balance and fast dual-clutch shifts. It is better at getting its power to the pavement and feels more focused, but it costs more, starting at around $69,000, while the featured Mustang with options is about $55,000.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Mustang GT | Corvette C8 Stingray |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | Front-engine, RWD | Mid-engine, RWD |
| Exhaust | Active quad exhaust | Quad exhaust |
| Transmission Choices | 10-speed auto / 6-speed manual | 8-speed DCT |
| Price (as shown/base) | $55,000 | $69,000+ |
Each model offers something special in performance, sound, and style for V8 fans.
Pricing and Value Proposition
When comparing price, the 2024 Mustang GT comes in at an MSRP of $55,700 as shown, including the blackout package and upgraded interior. In comparison, the base C8 Corvette Stingray starts at about $69,000. This means the Mustang GT is priced noticeably lower, leaving extra budget for customization or upgrades.
Value Overview:
| Vehicle | Starting Price | Engine | Horsepower | Transmission Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Mustang GT | $55,700 | 5.0L V8 (Coyote) | 486 hp | 10-spd auto / 6-spd manual |
| Base C8 Corvette | $69,000 | 6.2L V8 (LT2) | 490 hp | 8-spd dual clutch |
Key Features with 2024 Mustang GT (as equipped):
- Blackout package for a sleek look
- Optional Brembo performance brake package
- Choice between automatic and manual transmission
- Visceral, traditional V8 sound and feel
For buyers wanting an American V8 sports car with strong performance, the Mustang GT offers a more accessible starting point with plenty of features for the price. The cost gap compared to the Corvette provides room for personal touches or future enhancements.
Ability to Personalize and Upgrade
Owners have many ways to make the 2024 Mustang GT their own. The blackout package adds blacked-out badges, a gloss black grille, and dark wheels for a more aggressive look. Protective features like LED headlights and split spoke wheels are included, letting drivers choose how the car stands out.
Performance add-ons include:
- Optional Brembo brake system with six-piston red calipers in the front and four-piston rear calipers. Owners can pick caliper colors to match their preference.
- Two transmission options: a 10-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual.
- Factory active exhaust system for tuning sound levels.
Customization isn’t only for looks. The setup supports:
- Wheel and tire upgrades (changing size or grip)
- Swapping to performance all-season or summer tires
- Adjusting caliper color for a personalized brake appearance
Pricing Comparison Table
| Model | Starting Price (MSRP) | Extra Budget for Mods |
|---|---|---|
| Mustang GT (as shown) | $55,700 | More room for upgrades compared to rivals |
| Corvette Stingray | $69,000 | Higher starting price, less for customizing |
With more affordable pricing than some competitors, Mustang GT owners can put extra money toward upgrades or personal touches. The range of appearance, performance, and technology options makes it easy to tailor the car to fit different styles and needs.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The 2024 Mustang GT in Shadow Black stands out with its blackout package, offering features such as gloss black split spoke wheels, a blacked-out grille, and striking red Brembo calipers. The combination of full LED headlights, gloss black heat extractors, and classic Mustang tail lights gives the car a bold and recognizable presence.
Engine Specs Table:
| Feature | Mustang GT | C8 Corvette Stingray |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 5.0L V8 (Coyote) | 6.2L V8 (LT2) |
| Max Horsepower | 486 hp | 490 hp |
| Max Torque | 418 lb-ft | N/A |
| Transmission | 10-speed auto / 6-speed manual | 8-speed DCT |
| 0-60 mph | 3.9 sec | Not specified |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | Not specified |
| Curb Weight | 3,947 lbs | Similar |
This Mustang features all-season Continental tires sized 255/40R19 on all corners, with four-piston Brembo calipers in the rear and six-piston in the front. The shadow black finish continues throughout, from mirror caps to door handles, and even a black trunk spoiler and rear diffuser.
Some highlights include:
- Traditional Mustang styling with modern updates.
- Quad-cam overhead engine design, allowing a 7,500 RPM redline.
- Performance active exhaust for adjustable sound.
- 15 MPG city and 23 MPG highway.
Pricing Comparison:
- Base C8 Corvette Stingray: ~ $69,000
- 2024 Mustang GT (optioned as shown): ~$55,700
The Mustang GT delivers strong V8 performance, modern looks, and a lower price compared to its competitors, while still providing room for customization and upgrades.
