How do the 2015-2017 GT models stack up against the 2018+ Mustang GT?
I’m in the market for a fun second car and a Mustang GT is at the top of my list. I’m not planning to take it to the track, but I want something that looks great, sounds amazing, and has decent speed. My plan is to go with a full bolt-on (FBO) setup, a dyno tune, and maybe add flex-fuel or E85.
With that in mind, would there be a significant advantage in choosing a 3rd generation Coyote engine over the 2nd generation? I’m aware of the factory power ratings (435/400 vs. 460/420) and the differences like the increased rev limit, more displacement, and higher compression in the 3rd gen. But after the mods I have planned, would those differences be noticeable? From what I’ve seen on forums, FBO dyno results don’t seem to show much of a difference.
Lastly, if I decide to add boost later on, would one generation be preferable over the other?
Edit: I’m only considering manual transmission models.
With the manual transmission, there’s not much difference between the 2015-2017 and the 2018+ models. The gear ratios in the 2018+ aren’t significantly better. The performance ratings in terms of times are similar for both manual versions. What sets the 2018+ apart is the 10-speed automatic transmission, which really enhances the car’s performance and makes the most of the extra power.
Are the gears too tall? I understand that an automatic is better for quick times, but I really need a manual transmission. I miss shifting gears in my Evo so much.
The 2018+ manual was toned down for better fuel efficiency, so the performance times are similar to the 2015-2017 models. The gear ratios are excessively long, first gear only hits around 60 mph. It takes too long to reach the power band, and shifting doesn’t put you in the optimal range.
Both the 2015-2017 and 2018+ models achieve a 12.6-second quarter mile. Despite the 18+ having an additional 25 horsepower, it still posts the same quarter-mile time with the 6-speed transmission. More horsepower but the same elapsed time.
I transitioned from a 2015 GT with a 6-speed manual to a 2018 GT with the same transmission, and in terms of feel and acceleration, they seem almost identical. However, the 2018 model feels like it revs much higher and sounds significantly better. I’m also getting an impressive 33 mpg at 70 mph on a flat, windless highway. While numbers aren’t the whole story, if you find the gearing too long, there’s a whole aftermarket industry that can address that.
Yes, a 2018 with the 10-speed automatic runs a 12.1-second quarter mile completely stock. It’s very straightforward to get into the 10-second range with it naturally aspirated.
Got it, that makes sense. It seems like the 2015-2017 models would be a better fit for me. The power should feel similar, and you can save some money with the older models.
Do you think both engines would perform equally well with boost?
I completely disagree with the viewpoint shared in this thread. It’s important to note that the second-generation Coyote engine only has port injection. The third-generation Coyote adds direct injection while keeping the port injection, which allows it to deliver more fuel to the engine. This means if you’re going with E85, you won’t need as many fuel delivery upgrades because you already have two sets of injectors.
Additionally, the extra 500 rpm is a major plus, the engine really comes alive at 7500 rpm.
The difference in gearing isn’t very noticeable while driving, which is what really matters. If you’re after a more engaging driving experience, the third-generation engine will provide that. Plus, the third-generation model has a newer and sharper look.
For the most part, the difference is hardly noticeable. I do love the third generation, but I can’t get over the sluggish appearance from the slight facelift update. I really prefer the aggressive “snake” look of the 2015-2017 models.
If you say so. I’m enjoying myself, so I’m not too concerned The 2018 model also sounds better straight from the factory. In fact, when I mention wanting to get an exhaust, people often think I already have one.
What really matters is having fun with it. However, if you’re focused on the numbers, they tell a different story. I love my 2018 GT, but if we’re discussing performance stats and that’s what the original poster is interested in, the numbers are identical.
He specifically asked which is better between the 15-17 and 18+ manual transmissions. If his focus is purely on numbers, then from that perspective, it’s irrelevant.
The 2018 model also sounds better straight from the factory. In fact, when I mention wanting to get an exhaust, people often think I already have one.