The Mustang GT has a long history, starting back in 1964. It has always given drivers the choice between manual and automatic transmissions. Today, people can still pick which option they want. Modern Mustang GTs have improved a lot compared to the early years, especially in handling, braking, and acceleration.
This article looks closely at two Mustang GT models. One has a six-speed manual transmission and the other uses a ten-speed automatic. There are also differences in features, styling, and performance packages that separate the two. The review covers how each car feels to drive and what buyers can expect from the inside and out.
Key Takeaways
- Mustang GTs keep their classic style with modern upgrades.
- Manual and automatic models each offer unique driving experiences.
- Pricing and features can vary between different Mustang GT years and trims.
Mustang GT: Heritage and Influence
How the Mustang GT Has Changed Since the 1960s
The Mustang GT first appeared in 1964 and has continued to develop, keeping core features like bold styling and a strong V8 engine. Over the years, each new model brought updates in performance, safety, and technology.
Key improvements have included:
- Enhanced brakes and suspension for better handling
- More powerful engines, now reaching 460 horsepower in modern models
- Refinements to interior and exterior styling
Modern Mustang GTs offer sharp handling and strong acceleration, making them stand out among American muscle cars. Features like quad tip exhausts and signature tri-bar taillights remain, but new color choices and blackout packages add a custom touch.
| Model Year | Engine | Horsepower | 0-60 mph (approx.) | Transmission Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1964 ½ | V8 | ~271 | ~6.9 seconds | 3-speed auto/manual |
| 2018+ | 5.0-liter V8 | 460 | 4.0–4.3 seconds | 6-speed manual/10-speed auto |
Gearbox Choices: Stick Shift or Automatic
For decades, the Mustang GT has been sold with both manual and automatic gearboxes. This continues with recent models, giving drivers different experiences.
Manual Transmission:
- Six-speed manual offers a classic feel
- Engages the driver with gear changes
- Often paired with performance packages (such as upgraded brakes and suspension)
- Slightly slower in 0-60 mph time than the automatic, depending on the driver’s skill
Automatic Transmission:
- 10-speed automatic is smooth and quick
- Delivers about 4.0 seconds for 0-60 mph
- Includes features like paddle shifters for more control
- Preferred by those who want easy daily driving
- Typically has more gears for better performance and fuel economy
Both transmissions offer the full 5.0-liter V8 and share key Mustang GT traits, but choosing between them comes down to personal preference for driving style.
Overview of the Compared Models
2020 Mustang GT 10-Speed Auto
The 2020 Mustang GT comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission and is painted in a bright blue. It has a dark-themed trim package, including black badges, a gloss black roof, and unique black wheels. The car uses 19-inch cast aluminum wheels and four-piston brake calipers for stopping power.
Under the hood is a 5.0-liter V8 engine that delivers 460 horsepower. The car accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 4 seconds. Standard features include a digital display, leather seats with blue stitching, navigation, and advanced phone connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This Mustang weighs around 3,600 pounds and has quad exhaust tips in the rear. The price is listed at $45,000.
Key Features Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Engine | 5.0L V8, 460 hp |
| Acceleration (0-60) | About 4 seconds |
| Wheels | 19-inch cast aluminum |
| Brake Calipers | Four-piston |
| Special Trim | Blackout Package, gloss roof |
| Interior | Leather, blue stitching |
| Display | 12-inch digital |
| Technology | Navigation, Apple CarPlay |
| Rear Design | Quad exhaust, black spoiler |
| Price | $45,000 |
2018 Mustang GT with Performance Package and Manual
The 2018 Mustang GT features a 6-speed manual gearbox and comes with the Performance Package Level 1. This upgrade adds bigger brakes, beefed-up suspension, enhanced cooling, and 19-inch wheels wrapped in special performance tires. This car uses six-piston Brembo calipers and has slightly wider tires for improved traction.
It is powered by the same 5.0-liter V8 engine giving 460 horsepower. Acceleration to 60 mph takes about 4.2 to 4.3 seconds, depending on how fast the gears are shifted. This model has a wing delete on the rear for a cleaner look but still keeps the quad exhaust and modern rear styling. Inside, it is less loaded with extras, focusing on the manual driving experience. The listed price is $28,000 with around 31,000 miles.
Key Features Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Engine | 5.0L V8, 460 hp |
| Acceleration (0-60) | About 4.2 – 4.3 seconds |
| Wheels | 19-inch (wider, stickier tires) |
| Brake Calipers | Six-piston Brembo |
| Special Package | Performance Pack Level 1 |
| Cooling | Larger radiator, strut brace |
| Interior | Simpler, focus on driving |
| Rear Design | Wing delete, quad exhaust |
| Price | $28,000 (31,000 mi, certified) |
Outside Highlights and Looks
Front Appearance and Lighting
The 2020 Mustang GT has a bold front with headlights that sit lower, giving it a sharp, modern look. The shape of the headlights reminds many of a helmet, set off by the Velocity Blue color. The hood features two heat extractors for better cooling. Both the 2018 and 2020 models use this hood design, but the 2018 adds gloss black finishes to the heat vents with its Performance Pack.
Black Appearance Details
Choosing the blackout style adds several dark accents. Both cars come with blacked-out pony badges in the grille. The package includes a gloss black roof for the 2020 GT, while the 2018 has black details on the badges and front, but not the roof. The blackout options cost about $899 and also give a unique look to the wheels and exterior trims.
Wheel and Brake Setups
| Model Year | Wheel Type | Size | Brakes | Tire Specs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 GT | Cast Aluminum, Black | 19-inch | 4-piston calipers | Standard width |
| 2018 GT | Gloss Black, Perf Pack | 19-inch | 6-piston Brembo calipers | Michelin Pilot 4S, 275 mm |
The 2020 GT uses 19-inch cast aluminum wheels with four-piston calipers. The wheels are black, matching the blackout package. The 2018 GT with the Performance Pack Level 1 upgrades to 19-inch gloss black wheels, wider Michelin Pilot 4S tires (275 mm), and larger six-piston Brembo brakes for enhanced stopping power.
Rear Spoiler and Back End
At the rear, the 2020 GT carries a subtle trunk lid spoiler in black, which adds style without standing out too much. The 2018 Performance Pack car comes with a “wing delete,” so it does not have a rear spoiler. Both cars include quad tip exhausts and the signature tri-bar taillights. The rear diffuser is upgraded and blacked out, which gives the car a cleaner and sportier look.
Performance and Drivetrain
Engine Details
Both the 2020 and 2018 Mustang GT models are powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine. This engine produces 460 horsepower in each car. The engine covers are large and identical in both versions, adding a bold look under the hood. The 2018 model, with the Performance Pack, comes with a strut tower brace and a larger radiator for better cooling.
Key Engine Specs:
| Model Year | Engine | Horsepower | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 GT | 5.0L V8 | 460 hp | Large engine cover |
| 2018 GT PP1 | 5.0L V8 | 460 hp | Strut tower brace, bigger radiator |
Gearbox Choices
The 2020 Mustang GT uses a 10-speed automatic transmission, well-known for quick shifts and smooth power delivery. The 2018 version with Performance Pack Level 1 (PP1) has a 6-speed manual transmission, offering a more hands-on driving experience. Both cars have rear-wheel drive.
Transmission Comparison:
- 2020 GT: 10-speed automatic
- 2018 GT PP1: 6-speed manual
Speed and 0-60 Performance
The 2020 Mustang GT automatic reaches 0-60 mph in about 4 seconds thanks to the fast-shifting 10-speed gearbox and 3.55 rear gears. The 2018 manual version is a bit slower, with 0-60 mph times around 4.2 to 4.3 seconds. This difference is mostly because shifting gears manually takes more time compared to the automatic.
0-60 mph Times:
| Model | Transmission | Gear Ratio | 0-60 Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 GT | Automatic 10-spd | 3.55 | ~4.0 seconds |
| 2018 GT PP1 | Manual 6-spd | 3.73 | ~4.2-4.3 sec |
Weight, Suspension, and Road Feel
Both models weigh about 3,600 pounds. The 2018 PP1 gains some weight from its bigger radiator, beefed-up suspension, and six-piston Brembo brakes, but loses weight with the manual transmission. The 2018’s Performance Pack adds stiffer suspension, larger brakes, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires for better grip. These changes make the 2018 manual sharper when cornering.
Performance Pack Level 1 Key Upgrades:
- Six-piston Brembo brakes
- Larger rotors
- Upgraded 19-inch wheels and wider tires
- Stiffer suspension
The 2020 GT without the Performance Pack still handles well but has four-piston brakes and different wheel and tire setups, giving it a slightly softer driving feel.
Summary Table:
| Feature | 2020 GT | 2018 GT PP1 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | ~3,600 lbs | ~3,600 lbs |
| Brakes | Four-piston | Six-piston Brembo |
| Tires | Standard | Michelin Pilot Sport 4S |
| Suspension | Standard | Upgraded |
Behind the Wheel Impressions
Automatic Gearbox Driving Feel
The 2020 Mustang GT uses a 10-speed automatic transmission. Shifts are quick and smooth. Acceleration from a stop is strong, making it easy to hit 0-60 mph in about 4 seconds. The car weighs around 3,600 pounds, but it doesn’t feel sluggish. The 10-speed setup is well-matched to the 460 horsepower from the 5.0-liter engine.
Feature highlights:
- 10-speed automatic with 355 gears
- Smooth performance
- Responsive acceleration
- Easy for daily driving
Manual Transmission Involvement
The 2018 Mustang GT comes with a 6-speed manual transmission. Shifting is direct, and the clutch pedal feels solid. Drivers can move through the gears themselves, which adds more control and engagement. Hitting 0-60 mph takes about 4.2 to 4.3 seconds, depending on shift speed.
What stands out:
- 6-speed manual with 373 gears
- More control for the driver
- Involvement with every shift
- Classic muscle car feeling
Ride, Suspension, and Braking
| Feature | 2020 Mustang GT | 2018 Mustang GT (Performance Pack) |
|---|---|---|
| Suspension | Standard | Upgraded, beefier |
| Brake calipers | 4-piston | 6-piston Brembo |
| Rotors | Standard size | Larger rotors |
| Tires | Standard | Michelin Pilot Sport 4S |
The 2018 model with the Performance Pack Level 1 offers stronger braking thanks to six-piston Brembo calipers and bigger rotors. The suspension is also upgraded, giving the car more grip and better handling, especially in corners. Both cars ride on 19-inch wheels, but the 2018 has wider tires for added traction and stability.
Engine Sound and Exhaust Note
Both Mustangs have a 5.0-liter V8 and quad tip exhaust. The engine sound is deep with a classic muscle car rumble. The automatic and manual both provide strong sounds, but the manual lets drivers control engine RPM more directly, which can change the character of the exhaust note.
- Quad tip exhaust standard
- Deep rumble at idle
- Louder, more aggressive when accelerating
- Both have updated rear diffusers for a cleaner look
Inside the Cabin: Comfort and Technology
Digital Screens and Media Features
The 2020 Mustang GT is equipped with a 12-inch digital instrument cluster. This customizable screen gives drivers important information in a clear, easy-to-read layout.
It runs Ford’s SYNC system, which offers navigation and supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Drivers can use their favorite apps, make hands-free calls, and control music directly from the touchscreen.
Below is a quick view of included tech:
| Feature | 2020 Mustang GT | 2018 Mustang GT (Manual) |
|---|---|---|
| Digital Instrument Cluster | Standard | Not Specified |
| Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | Included | Not Specified |
| Navigation | Available | Not Specified |
| SYNC Infotainment | Yes | Not Specified |
Seating Materials and Interior Trim
Inside, the 2020 model uses leather upholstery with blue accent stitching that matches the car’s exterior color. The stitching adds a nice visual touch to the seats and cabin.
The 2018 Mustang GT with the manual transmission does not mention leather seats or colored stitching. It features a more basic interior aimed at those who prioritize the driving experience.
Comfort Upgrades and User-Friendly Extras
In the 2020 model, ventilated seats keep occupants cool—an appreciated feature in warmer climates. The car’s layout and design provide plenty of space, keeping the classic muscle car feel.
The 2018 manual version is less equipped with comfort add-ons but still delivers a familiar and roomy environment expected from a Mustang GT. Its main highlight is the focus on a more hands-on driving experience.
Value and Pricing
Brand-New Mustang GT Choices
The 2020 Mustang GT with the current features and options comes priced at $45,000. This model includes navigation, the Sync system, and a 12-inch digital display. Interior highlights are leather seats with blue stitching and ventilated seating. Technology features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The blackout package can be added for about $899 and gives the car unique styling touches like a dark pony emblem and gloss black roof.
Key Features Table
| Feature | Included in 2020 GT With Options |
|---|---|
| Navigation | Yes |
| 12″ Digital Display | Yes |
| Leather Interior | Yes |
| Ventilated Seats | Yes |
| Blackout Package | Optional ($899) |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic |
| Price | $45,000 |
Used Mustang Models
There was only one manual Mustang available on the lot, a 2018 GT listed at $28,000 with around 31,000 miles. Even though it is from 2018, it shares the same generation as the 2020 model and maintains similar performance levels. The 2018 model is less equipped in terms of tech and features compared to the newer one but offers the six-speed manual transmission. This car also comes with the Performance Package Level 1 and the blackout package.
Highlights of the 2018 Pre-Owned Mustang
- Price: $28,000
- Mileage: 31,000
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Performance Package Level 1
- Blackout package features
Certification and Upgrade Choices
The 2018 Mustang GT is Ford certified, offering added confidence for buyers of pre-owned vehicles. Buyers can consider different packages and options, such as the Performance Package Level 1 for better braking, bigger rotors, and upgraded wheels. The blackout package is available on both new and used models, allowing for more custom styling. Transmission options include the six-speed manual and the 10-speed automatic.
Package and Option Summary
- Ford Certified: Available on used cars
- Performance Package Level 1: Upgraded brakes, tires, and suspension
- Blackout Package: Unique exterior touches
- Transmission Choices: Six-speed manual or 10-speed automatic
List of Main Choices:
- New or used model
- Package options (Performance Pack, Blackout)
- Transmission type
- Certification status (for pre-owned)
