Driven | Ford Mustang GT
Long Live the V8: Ford Mustang GT
The Ford Mustang GT is loud, proud, and dripping with personality. With a 5.0-litre Coyote naturally aspirated V8, the Mustang GT doesn’t whisper—it shouts. And trust me, you’ll want to listen.
The Heart of the Beast
Let’s talk numbers: 328 kW, 540 Nm of torque, sent to the rear wheels through a 10-speed automatic gearbox. There are no turbos, no hybrid assist, no electric “what-what.” Just pure American V8 thunder. The Mustang feels elegant at first, almost composed but give it some throttle, and the hooligan inside wakes up fast. Switch off traction control, and this car will happily go sideways if you don’t respect it. It’s a muscle car, and it demands muscle from the driver too.
Exterior
The Mustang GT isn’t trying to sneak past anyone. Long bonnet, low-slung stance, tri-beam LED headlights, and those iconic triple-stripe taillights—it’s aggressive, menacing, and beautiful all at once. People stare, phones come out, and the car demands attention. It’s not just transport; it’s theatre.
Interior
Inside, it’s surprisingly refined. The Bang & Olufsen sound system sounds incredible but honestly, the best soundtrack comes from the exhaust. Active valves let you dial the noise from growl to full-on roar, and it’s addictive. The seats are plush and comfortable enough for long drives, and the steering—heavy, precise, and direct reminds you you’re in something serious. Every shift in that 10-speed feels brutal but satisfying, the kind of mechanical drama you don’t get in modern electrics.
Daily Life with a V8
Here’s the thing, fun comes at a price. I averaged 11.8 L/100 km, with a full tank giving me about 350 km of range. At around R1,000 a tank, your right foot and your wallet need to be on speaking terms. But honestly? That soundtrack, that shove of power, and that sense of occasion, it’s worth every cent. The magic is, you don’t need to speed to enjoy it. Just a downshift, a growl, and suddenly you’re grinning ear to ear.
Conclusion
In a world rushing toward electrification, the Mustang GT feels like a rebellion. Brutal yet composed, refined yet beastly, it’s a muscle car that doubles as an experience. Long live V8s. Long live the Mustang. Viva V8.
