6th generation vs 7th generation Mustang, which is better overall?
Posted by Admin at 5 October 2025, at 06 : 22 AM
Here’s a breakdown of the main differences between the 6th-generation Mustang (S550; model years ~2015-2023) and the 7th-generation Mustang (S650; 2024-present). There are upgrades, trade-offs, and areas where one may “beat” the other depending on what you care about (power, tech, handling, etc.).
What stays the same / fundamentals
Both generations are rear-wheel drive, pony/muscle-car platform, with variants using the EcoBoost engine (turbocharged 4-cylinder) and V8s (Coyote etc.). They have a lot of common DNA. The S650 is an evolution of the S550 platform rather than a totally new layout.
What the 7th Generation Adds / Improves
*Refreshed styling & design tweaks*
* Cleaner nose, fewer hood creases, more aggressive / modern lines.
* Lower rear overhang, wider stance, more presence in rear haunches.
* LED lighting updates (e.g. tri-bar LED headlights, redesigned taillights).
*Interior & tech upgrades*
* New digital cockpit: combined / curved displays (12.4-inch instrument cluster + 13.2-inch touchscreen) under one glass in many trims.
* More driver aids & safety tech: blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, forward-collision mitigation etc.
* Over-the-air updates and improved infotainment (SYNC 4) etc.
*Power & drivetrain enhancements*
* EcoBoost engine: new twin-scroll turbo, electronic wastegate, both port & direct injection. Improvement in power/tuning.
* V8 (Coyote): internal revisions, dual air intakes / dual throttle bodies etc. Higher peak power / better breathing.
* The Dark Horse variant: ~500 hp, stronger components (e.g. some parts from GT500 for Coyote).
*Handling, dynamics & performance options*
* Optional Performance Pack: better brakes (Brembo), an active suspension system (MagneRide), limited-slip differential, possibly more track / track-oriented features.
* A quicker steering ratio.
* New “electronic drift brake” (performance electronic parking brake) for fun / control in rear-drive dynamics.
*Improved efficiency / slight refinement*
* Ecoboost sees small gains in power, torque, and possibly marginally better fuel economy in some conditions.
* Better aerodynamics, updated suspensions, etc. help in ride, handling.
What the 6th Generation Still Does Well / Where It Might Be “Better”
* Proven reliability & lower cost
* Parts are well known, aftermarket is broad. If not caring about the latest tech, you may get more bang for cheaper.
* Smaller depreciation / used market may have advantages. (Of course depends on condition.)
* Power ceiling in special editions
* High-end 6th gen models (e.g. Shelby GT500, Bullitt, Mach 1 etc.) had very strong performance benchmarks. If you pick a top trim, a 6th gen may outperform base or mid trims of a 7th gen on straight lines.
*Simplicity / driver feel*
* Some purists may prefer the mechanical feedback, fewer screens/buttons, the character of older V8s etc.
* Might feel more raw, more analog, less “digitally mediated”.
* Weight & perhaps handling trade-offs
Because of extra tech, safety, features, large screens etc., the newer generation might weigh more in certain trims, which can impact inertia, though refinements likely mitigate this.
Bottom Line
The 7th generation is noticeably better in tech, interior quality, driver aids, safety, and refinement. If you care about comfort, modern gadgets, and a more “future proof” car, it’s a solid upgrade.
In raw performance especially in straight-line speed, the gain is real but not massive for base / mid trims; more meaningful in top trims or performance versions.
For track or spirited driving, you’ll appreciate the improved handling options, better brakes, updated steering, etc.
So, “how much better” depends on your priorities. If you value comfort, tech, driving feel, the jump is probably more significant. If you mainly care about “1/4 mile time” or “raw power”, the gain is there but you might get good enough performance from a late 6th-gen.