The Ford Mustang. The very name conjures images of raw power, iconic styling, and an enduring legacy. For over five decades, this American muscle car has captured the hearts of driving enthusiasts worldwide, evolving with each generation. Choosing the right Mustang can be a thrilling endeavor, but sometimes, the task becomes more complex when considering models from close years. Today, we delve deep into a head-to-head comparison of the 2018 Mustang and the 2017 Mustang, uncovering the key differences, highlighting the improvements, and ultimately, helping you decide which model best fits your desires and needs. The 2018 Mustang vs 2017: Let the battle begin!
Exterior Design and Styling
The 2017 Mustang, as a continuation of the sixth generation, presented a bold and recognizable design language that paid homage to its rich heritage. From its long hood and short rear deck to its aggressive stance, it exuded a classic muscle car vibe. The lines were sculpted, the details refined, and it instantly identifiable as a Mustang. The headlights, typically featuring a sleek, swept-back design, were a notable feature, often paired with a prominent front grille that housed the iconic pony emblem. The rear fascia, including the taillights with their signature three-bar design, further enhanced the Mustang’s unmistakable presence. The 2017 Mustang was a head-turner, embodying the essence of American automotive history.
Fast forward to the 2018 model year, and Ford decided to bring a significant refresh to the Mustang’s design. This wasn’t just a mild facelift; it was a more comprehensive overhaul. The most striking change was undoubtedly the redesigned front end. The 2018 Mustang received a more aggressive and angular front fascia. The headlights were completely revised, featuring a slimmer, more contemporary design, and the front grille was lowered and widened, lending the car a more menacing appearance. The hood received updated styling with reshaped vents to create a more dynamic and athletic look. At the rear, the changes were subtler but still noteworthy. The taillights remained the signature three-bar design but were refined, and the rear fascia received a new design as well.
Comparing these two, the 2017 Mustang possessed a refined, classic aesthetic, a solid and familiar foundation. Its design spoke to the purists who loved the Mustang’s heritage. However, the 2018 Mustang took a more contemporary approach. The sharp lines, lowered grille, and redesigned headlights signaled a shift toward a more modern and aggressive personality. This update catered to those who craved a more cutting-edge design, an evolution that kept the Mustang current in a world of rapidly changing automotive aesthetics. The choice between the two would be largely a matter of personal preference. Do you gravitate towards a classic muscle car appearance or a more modern, assertive stance? The 2018 Mustang brought a new level of visual boldness to the equation.
Performance and Engine Options
The 2017 Mustang offered a compelling range of engine options, each providing a distinct driving experience. The entry-level EcoBoost engine, a turbocharged four-cylinder, delivered a surprising amount of power and efficiency, offering a great balance for daily driving. Then came the V6 option, a step up with more horsepower and a classic engine configuration. Finally, there was the iconic Mustang GT, powered by a naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine produced exhilarating power and offered a true muscle car experience. Depending on the model, these engines delivered the performance needed to satisfy a wide range of driving tastes, from everyday commuting to thrilling weekend drives. Transmission options generally included both manual and automatic choices, providing drivers with a choice that perfectly matched their driving preference.
The 2018 Mustang brought with it some noteworthy changes under the hood. The EcoBoost engine was carried over, providing drivers with the same performance. The V6 engine, however, was discontinued. This change made room for the more powerful GT model. The Mustang GT received a significant update to its V8 engine, improving both horsepower and torque, offering an even more exciting experience. The biggest change, though, was the introduction of a new ten-speed automatic transmission. This advanced transmission replaced the older six-speed automatic, offering faster shifts, improved fuel economy, and a more responsive driving feel. The 2018 model emphasized its commitment to maximizing power while integrating modern automotive technologies.
The comparison of performance and engine options between these models reveals a clear focus on improvement. The 2018 Mustang’s GT engine provided increased performance, and the ten-speed automatic improved the overall driving experience significantly. This transmission not only provided quicker acceleration but also made the car more efficient. On the other hand, the 2017 Mustang’s performance was still impressive. Depending on your preference, the 2017 model offered a powerful V6 option, which was no longer available on the 2018 model. The 2018 Mustang was a demonstration of how the iconic vehicle was evolving, blending power with advanced technologies. The addition of the ten-speed automatic truly set the 2018 Mustang apart.
Interior and Technology
The interior of the 2017 Mustang, while still attractive and functional, was built on a design carried over from previous years. Materials quality was generally good, and the overall layout was driver-focused, with an emphasis on providing an immersive driving experience. The infotainment system featured a touchscreen, often with features like navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration. The 2017 Mustang was equipped with the technology expected in a modern vehicle.
The 2018 Mustang’s cabin benefited from updates that made the interior feel fresher and more modern. The most significant change was the addition of a digital instrument cluster in some trims. This customizable display provided drivers with various performance information and personalization options. The infotainment system received updates as well, and the user interface was improved for better ease of use and responsiveness. The 2018 Mustang focused on improving the driving experience by enhancing the driver-centric cockpit. Comfort features, like heated and cooled seats and upgraded materials, were further refined. The overall impression was a cabin that felt more premium and tech-savvy.
Comparing interiors, the 2018 Mustang undoubtedly had the edge. The digital instrument cluster significantly improved the user experience, providing more customization options and enhancing the driver-centric design. While the 2017 Mustang offered a comfortable and functional cabin, it did not have the same level of technological sophistication. The 2018 model incorporated newer technology to give drivers a more immersive experience. This upgrade was more than just aesthetic; it was about integrating the Mustang’s performance with more engaging and useful information, creating a more connected driving experience. If technology and a cutting-edge interior are priorities, then the 2018 Mustang is the clear winner.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2017 Mustang offered a range of trim levels designed to suit various budgets and preferences. Options typically included the base model, the EcoBoost, the GT, and the high-performance Shelby variants (if applicable). The base model offered a cost-effective entry point with basic features, while higher trims added performance upgrades, enhanced technology, and premium interior appointments. The pricing for the 2017 Mustang varied depending on the trim level and options selected. You could typically find base models at a more affordable price point. Higher trims and performance-oriented variants came with a higher price tag to reflect their enhanced features and capabilities.
Similarly, the 2018 Mustang was available in several trim levels, allowing consumers to customize their experience. The 2018 Mustang followed a similar pattern of trim levels, providing buyers with a wide range of choices. Prices also varied depending on the trim, the engine option, and any added features. Base models started at an accessible price point, and the price went up for more equipped trims. The 2018 model also reflected the added value of its technological and performance upgrades.
When considering these aspects of trim levels and pricing, it’s important to consider the overall value proposition. Both models offered different trim levels, allowing buyers to choose a Mustang that best fits their budget and needs. The 2017 Mustang generally offered a slightly lower price point. The 2018 Mustang, while costing more, offered significant upgrades in terms of performance, technology, and design. Therefore, the ideal choice depended on your budget and what you prioritized in a vehicle. Consider your expectations for the Mustang’s performance, the technology you desire, and the budget you’re working with when making your decision.
Pros and Cons
2017 Mustang
The 2017 Mustang had a strong legacy and offered a more affordable entry point, while still offering a range of powerful engine choices. The 2017’s classic design, though timeless, could be considered less modern than the 2018’s update. The infotainment system and interior technology, while functional, weren’t quite as advanced. The 2017 models had a competitive price point.
2018 Mustang
The 2018 Mustang, in contrast, shined for its performance upgrades, particularly the updated GT engine and the new ten-speed automatic transmission, delivering an improved driving experience. The updated design brought a fresh, more aggressive appearance. The digital instrument cluster and improved infotainment system enhanced the technology. The 2018 models had a higher price point.
Conclusion
Choosing between the 2018 Mustang and the 2017 Mustang requires careful consideration. The 2017 model, with its classic design, powerful engines, and competitive pricing, is a worthy choice, especially for those who value tradition and a lower initial investment. It remains a formidable vehicle that still commands respect on the road.
The 2018 Mustang, however, presents a more compelling option for those who want the latest advancements. The significant design updates, the enhanced engine performance, and the added technology all contribute to a more modern and engaging driving experience. The improved driving dynamics, due to the performance increases and the advanced transmission, solidify the 2018 Mustang’s position as a technological and performance leader.
Ultimately, the “better” Mustang depends entirely on your individual needs, budget, and preferences. If you’re looking for a more classic experience at a lower price, the 2017 Mustang remains a strong choice. If you desire a more technologically advanced vehicle with enhanced performance and a modern design, the 2018 Mustang undoubtedly reigns supreme. Either way, you’re getting behind the wheel of an automotive legend. The 2018 Mustang and 2017 Mustang models both represent the continuous evolution of an American icon!
