Pretty much anywhere you drive in the US, one of the most common sports cars you will see is the Ford Mustang. The iconic American pony car is celebrating its 57th birthday this weekend, and Ford has announced the Mustang has retained its best-selling sports coupe title for the sixth year. The car is also the world’s best-selling sports car for the second year in a row.
A surge in sales of limited-edition high-performance versions of the Mustang, including the Bullitt, Shelby GT350, Shelby GT350R, and Shelby GT500, have helped propel the Mustang during 2020. Globally, all versions of the Mustang sold a total of 80,577 units. That is 15.1 percent of the sports coupe market, a gain from 14.8 percent the previous year.
High-Performance Models Drive Sales
Sales of the high-performance versions of the Mustang were up by 52.7 percent in 2020 compared to 2019. These models, such as the Bullitt, Shelby GT350, Shelby GT350R, and Shelby GT500, have captured the imagination of car enthusiasts worldwide. The Bullitt, for instance, pays homage to the classic 1968 movie “Bullitt” starring Steve McQueen, and features a powerful V8 engine and unique styling cues. The Shelby GT350 and GT350R are known for their track-ready performance, while the GT500 is the most powerful Mustang ever produced, boasting over 700 horsepower.
Global Market Performance
The strongest markets in the US, which account for three-quarters of total sales globally, are Texas, California, and Florida. These states have a long-standing love affair with the Mustang, thanks to their car culture and favorable driving conditions. In Texas, the wide-open roads and car shows provide the perfect backdrop for Mustang enthusiasts. California, with its scenic coastal highways and automotive history, remains a key market. Florida’s year-round warm weather and vibrant car community also contribute to strong sales.
Sales in European markets also increased significantly, particularly in Hungary, where sales increased 68.8 percent compared to 2019. This surge can be attributed to the growing popularity of American muscle cars in Europe, where the Mustang stands out for its distinctive design and performance. In the UK, the Mustang has become a symbol of American automotive culture, often seen at car meets and enthusiast gatherings. Germany, known for its high-speed autobahns, has also embraced the Mustang, appreciating its blend of power and style.
The Mustang’s appeal isn’t limited to just the US and Europe. In Australia, the Mustang has become a favorite among car enthusiasts, with its V8 engine and rear-wheel-drive layout offering a unique driving experience. In China, the Mustang has gained a following among younger drivers who appreciate its bold design and performance capabilities.
The Mustang’s success can also be attributed to Ford’s continuous innovation and commitment to performance. The introduction of the Mach-E, an all-electric SUV inspired by the Mustang, has expanded the brand’s reach to a new audience interested in electric vehicles. The Mach-E combines the Mustang’s iconic design with cutting-edge technology, offering a glimpse into the future of performance cars.
The Ford Mustang’s enduring popularity is a testament to its iconic design, performance, and cultural significance. As it celebrates its 57th birthday, the Mustang continues to capture the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world, solidifying its place as one of the most beloved sports cars of all time. With its rich history and promising future, the Mustang is poised to remain a symbol of American automotive excellence for years to come.
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