Home > News & Blogs > 2018 Ford Mustang GT Performance Review: 460HP & Sub-4-Second 0-60
2018 Ford Mustang GT Performance Review: 460HP & Sub-4-Second 0-60
2018 Ford Mustang GT: The 460HP Rocket That Redefines American Muscle
Engineering Breakthroughs
Performance Milestone: The 2018 Mustang GT's upgraded 5.0L Coyote V8 delivers 460HP and 420 lb-ft torque, enabling sub-4-second 0-60mph bursts when equipped with the revolutionary 10-speed automatic and Performance Package.
--FIRST CAR LIST HERE--
5.0L Coyote V8 Enhancements
- New: Dual-fuel (port & direct) injection system
- Power: 460HP @ 7,000 RPM (+25HP)
- Torque: 420 lb-ft @ 4,600 RPM (+20 lb-ft)
- Redline: 7,500 RPM
10-Speed Automatic
- Shift Times: 30% quicker than previous 6-speed
- Gear Ratios: 7.384:1 (1st) to 0.636:1 (10th)
- Weight: Only 8 lbs heavier than 6-speed
- Cooling: Dedicated transmission cooler
- --TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Drag Strip Mode
- Function: Maintains peak torque during shifts
- Launch: Optimized RPM matching
- Shift Points: Computer-calculated ideal points
- Result: 3.9s 0-60mph (with Performance Pack)
--SECOND CAR LIST HERE--
Performance Package Essentials
- Tires: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S (265/40R19 front, 275/40R19 rear)
- Brakes: Larger 6-piston front calipers
- Suspension: Stiffer springs and stabilizer bars
- Aero: Front splitter and rear spoiler
- Cooling: Enhanced radiator and oil cooler
Competitive Comparison
| Model | Engine | Horsepower | 0-60 mph | Base Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 Mustang GT | 5.0L V8 | 460 | 3.9s | $35,095 |
| 2018 Camaro SS | 6.2L V8 | 455 | 4.0s | $37,995 |
| 2018 Challenger R/T | 5.7L V8 | 375 | 5.2s | $34,995 |
Real-World Driving Impressions
- Acceleration: Brutal low-end torque with relentless pull to redline
- Transmission: Seamless shifts in normal mode, lightning-fast in Sport/Drag
- Handling: 0.97g skidpad with Performance Pack
- Braking: 60-0 mph in 107 feet
- --FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
EcoBoost Performance Upgrade
The turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder also receives significant improvements:
- Torque Increase: +30 lb-ft (now 350 lb-ft total)
- Horsepower: 310HP maintained
- Performance: Sub-5-second 0-60 with Performance Pack
- Tech: Same Drag Strip mode functionality
Ownership Considerations
- Fuel Economy: 15/25/18 mpg (city/hwy/combined) for GT
- Maintenance: Synthetic oil changes every 7,500 miles
- Warranty: 3yr/36,000mi bumper-to-bumper
- Resale: 58% value retention after 3 years
- --THIRD CAR LIST HERE--
Final Verdict
The 2018 Mustang GT represents a watershed moment for American muscle cars, combining supercar-rivaling acceleration with daily-driver practicality. The 10-speed automatic's Drag Strip mode demonstrates Ford's engineering prowess, while the upgraded Coyote V8 delivers thrilling performance at a fraction of European sports car prices.
For those seeking maximum performance, the $3,995 Performance Package is virtually mandatory, transforming the GT from a powerful cruiser to a legitimate track weapon. The 2018 model solidifies the Mustang's position as the performance leader in its class.
Explore our detailed comparison against the Camaro SS and Challenger R/T, or learn about factory-approved performance upgrades from Ford Performance.
--SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Klash
Last Updated On Sep, 29-2025