Ultimate Guide to Iconic Ford Mustangs Throughout History

July. 16,2025

Explore the legendary history of the Ford Mustang, from classic models like the Shelby GT350 and Boss series to modern favorites. This guide highlights iconic Mustangs that have defined performance and style over the decades, perfect for enthusiasts seeking to understand their legacy and select the ideal model for their needs.

Ultimate Guide to Iconic Ford Mustangs Throughout History

Ultimate Guide to Iconic Ford Mustangs Throughout History

The Ford Mustang has long been celebrated as a legendary American muscle car. For decades, it has symbolized freedom, style, and performance for enthusiasts worldwide. The 2018 Mustang GT continues this proud tradition, attracting fans with its impressive design and power. The Mustang’s popularity is partly due to special edition models introduced over the years, which have elevated its status to an icon. Despite limited availability globally, Mustang enthusiasts eagerly purchase these vehicles for their timeless appeal and performance.

Key reasons behind Mustang’s legendary reputation include its diverse range of high-performance variants and innovative editions that have captivated drivers for generations.

Mustangs have consistently been among the most powerful yet affordable sports cars, earning widespread admiration. Below are some of the most iconic Mustang models that have thrilled fans:

Ford Shelby Mustang GT350
Developed through a collaboration between Shelby and Ford, the GT350 debuted in 1965. This track-focused model boasted a robust V-8 delivering 306 horsepower and became a racing legend, especially in Trans-Am competitions. Its aggressive design and performance made it a favorite until production ended in 1970, with the 1965 version renowned for its dominance on the track.

Ford Mustang GT350 and GT350R (2018)
The 2018 iterations of the GT350 and GT350R proved highly popular, featuring advanced aerodynamics and performance enhancements tailored for thrill-seekers.

Ford Shelby Mustang SVT Cobra R
Produced between 1993 and 2004, the SVT Cobra R marked the peak of Cobra performance. These models delivered superior handling, increased power, with engines producing around 300 horsepower, reinforced suspension components, and additional racing features, making them a step above standard V8 Mustangs.

Ford Shelby Mustang GT500
First introduced in 1967, the GT500 paired a 428 cubic inch V8 with Shelby’s signature upgrades. An even more powerful variant, the GT500 KR, equipped with a 428 Cobra Jet V8, was also released, pushing performance boundaries.

Mustang Boss Series (302/351/429)
Starting in 1969, the Boss lineup emphasized racing-inspired street cars. The Boss 302 featured a 290+ horsepower 302 cubic inch engine, while the Boss 429 boasted a 429 cubic inch engine producing 375 horsepower. The Boss 371, a limited edition released in 1971, and the revived Boss 302 in 2012 showcased Ford’s commitment to high-performance heritage.

These models highlight Mustang’s evolution as a performance icon, with the latest 2018 GT models meeting diverse driving needs. Understand their unique features to choose your ideal Mustang.