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Ford Mustang Buying Guide

Rusty Eck Ford New Car Buying Guide

Ford Mustang Buying Guide for Wichita, KS

Explore EcoBoost, GT and Dark Horse Mustangs. Compare available coupe and convertible models, engines, transmissions and performance features before choosing your Mustang.

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Quick Answer

Which Ford Mustang Should You Consider?

The Mustang is a four-seat, rear-wheel-drive sports car with multiple engine and performance configurations. The EcoBoost uses a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder, GT uses a 5.0L V8, and Dark Horse uses a specially tuned 5.0L V8.

EcoBoost and GT offer selected convertible configurations. GT and Dark Horse offer available manual transmissions. The Dark Horse includes additional performance-focused equipment.

Compare the exact vehicle's engine, transmission, seating, tires and available packages before making your choice.

View New Mustang Inventory
315 Horsepower 2026 Mustang EcoBoost with premium fuel.
480 Horsepower 2026 Mustang GT with premium fuel; up to 486 with available active exhaust.
500 Horsepower 2026 Mustang Dark Horse with premium fuel.
Mustang Overview

Three Distinct Mustang Experiences

From turbocharged everyday driving to V8 performance, Mustang offers different ways to enjoy its rear-wheel-drive platform.

1

Mustang EcoBoost

The turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost produces 315 horsepower using premium fuel. It pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

2

Mustang GT

The 5.0L V8 delivers 480 horsepower using premium fuel, or 486 with the available active valve performance exhaust. Manual and automatic transmissions are available.

3

Mustang Dark Horse

A modified 5.0L V8 produces 500 horsepower using premium fuel. Dark Horse includes specialized suspension, braking and cooling equipment.

Who Is It For?

Who Should Consider a Ford Mustang?

Drivers Wanting a Sports Coupe

Explore Mustang if rear-wheel drive, responsive handling and distinctive styling are priorities.

Convertible Shoppers

Compare available EcoBoost and GT Premium convertibles if open-air driving is part of your plans.

Performance Enthusiasts

Compare GT and Dark Horse for V8 performance, manual transmission availability and specialized handling equipment.

Choose Your Path

Start Your Mustang Search

Shop New

Explore available new Ford Mustangs.

Shop New Mustangs

Shop Pre-Owned

Compare used Mustang models and equipment.

Shop Pre-Owned Mustangs

Explore Financing

Begin your finance application online.

Apply Online

Value Your Trade

Estimate your current vehicle's trade value.

Value Your Trade
Customer discussing a Ford Mustang with a dealership salesperson
Everyday Ownership

Choose the Mustang That Fits Your Drive

A Mustang test drive should help you evaluate the things that matter beyond horsepower.

  • Compare EcoBoost and V8 driving characteristics.
  • Test the manual or automatic transmission you prefer.
  • Evaluate seat comfort and visibility.
  • Consider rear-seat access and trunk space.
  • Review tire, suspension and performance-package choices.
Before You Choose

Six Things to Consider Before Buying a Mustang

1. EcoBoost or V8?

EcoBoost offers turbocharged four-cylinder power. GT and Dark Horse use naturally aspirated V8 engines with different performance characteristics.

2. Manual or Automatic?

EcoBoost uses a 10-speed automatic. GT offers a standard six-speed manual or available automatic. Dark Horse has a standard 10-speed automatic with an available TREMEC six-speed manual.

3. Fastback or Convertible?

Compare body styles for appearance, open-air driving and trunk space. Convertible availability varies by Mustang model.

4. Rear-Wheel Drive

Mustang uses rear-wheel drive. Consider your year-round driving conditions, tire selection and seasonal weather in Kansas.

5. Performance Packages

Available equipment can change suspension, braking, wheels and tires. Compare the exact configuration, especially if you plan occasional track driving.

6. Everyday Practicality

Mustang seats up to four passengers. Fastback models offer 13.5 cubic feet of trunk space, while convertibles offer 11.4 cubic feet.

Trim Guidance

Compare the Mustang Lineup

Start with EcoBoost, GT or Dark Horse, then compare available Premium equipment, body styles and performance packages.

EcoBoost

Turbocharged 2.3L engine with 315 horsepower using premium fuel. Ten-speed automatic transmission.

EcoBoost Premium

Adds comfort and appearance choices. Available in fastback and convertible configurations.

GT

5.0L V8 with 480 horsepower using premium fuel. Standard six-speed manual transmission.

GT Premium

V8 performance with additional comfort and technology. Available in fastback and convertible configurations.

Dark Horse

Modified 5.0L V8 with 500 horsepower using premium fuel. Standard MagneRide suspension and specialized performance equipment.

Dark Horse Premium

Dark Horse performance with additional premium interior and appearance equipment.

Ford also lists the specialized Dark Horse SC. Check Ford's official Mustang information for its specifications and availability.

Compare Available Mustangs
Compare Ford Vehicles

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Mustang Mach-E

Explore Ford's all-electric Mustang Mach-E SUV if electric driving interests you.

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Ford Bronco

Compare Bronco if open-air driving, available 4x4 and off-road capability are priorities.

Bronco Buying Guide

Ford F-150

Consider F-150 if you need pickup capability, cargo-bed flexibility and different engine options.

F-150 Buying Guide
Shopping Opportunities

Explore Current Ford Specials

Review current new and pre-owned vehicle specials while comparing available Mustangs. Offers and eligibility vary.

New Ford Specials

Browse current new Ford offers and featured inventory.

View New Ford Specials

Pre-Owned Specials

Explore featured pre-owned vehicles and current used specials.

View Pre-Owned Specials
Your Current Vehicle

Know Your Trade Value Before You Shop

Estimate your current vehicle's trade value before choosing your next Mustang. Start online with Rusty Eck Ford.

From Research to Ownership

Experience the Mustang in Person

A test drive helps you evaluate seating, visibility, ride characteristics and the powertrain you prefer.

Visit Rusty Eck Ford to compare available Mustangs and discuss engine, transmission, body-style and performance-package choices.

Schedule a Test Drive
Customer receiving a Ford vehicle key at the dealership
See It for Yourself

Schedule Your Ford Mustang Test Drive

Compare available Mustangs and arrange a visit to Rusty Eck Ford in Wichita, Kansas.

Schedule a Test Drive Shop New Mustangs Call 316-688-2084
Ownership Resources

Keep Your Mustang Ready for the Road

Follow Ford's maintenance guidance for your engine, transmission and driving conditions. Explore Rusty Eck Ford's service resources.

Service Your Ford

Schedule Service Service and Parts Specials
Ford Mustang Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Mustang EcoBoost and GT?
The 2026 Mustang EcoBoost uses a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine producing 315 horsepower with premium fuel. The Mustang GT uses a 5.0L V8 producing 480 horsepower with premium fuel, or 486 with available active valve performance exhaust.
Does the 2026 Ford Mustang offer a manual transmission?
Yes. Mustang GT offers a standard six-speed manual transmission. Dark Horse offers an available TREMEC six-speed manual. EcoBoost uses a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Is the 2026 Ford Mustang available as a convertible?
Yes. The 2026 lineup includes EcoBoost Convertible, EcoBoost Premium Convertible and GT Premium Convertible models.
How much horsepower does the Mustang Dark Horse have?
The 2026 Mustang Dark Horse uses a modified naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 producing 500 horsepower with premium fuel.
Does the Ford Mustang have all-wheel drive?
No. The gas-powered 2026 Ford Mustang uses rear-wheel drive.
How many passengers can a Ford Mustang seat?
The 2026 Ford Mustang has seating for up to four passengers.
How much trunk space does a Ford Mustang have?
The 2026 Mustang Fastback has 13.5 cubic feet of trunk space. The Mustang Convertible has 11.4 cubic feet.
What is the difference between Mustang GT and Dark Horse?
Mustang GT uses a 5.0L V8 with 480 horsepower on premium fuel. Dark Horse uses a modified 5.0L V8 with 500 horsepower on premium fuel and includes additional performance-focused suspension, braking and cooling equipment.
Can I shop new and pre-owned Mustangs in Wichita?
Yes. Rusty Eck Ford provides online new and pre-owned Mustang inventory searches. Available models, transmissions, body styles and equipment change as vehicles are added and sold.
How can I schedule a Ford Mustang test drive?
Use Rusty Eck Ford's online appointment page to schedule a visit. You can also call 316-688-2084 to discuss available Mustangs and arrange a time to see one in person.
Official Ford Information

Explore Current Ford Mustang Details

Review Ford's official Mustang information for current specifications, performance packages and available models.

Official Ford Mustang Details Explore Mustang Inventory
Keep Comparing

Explore More Ford Buying Guides

Compare Ford SUVs, trucks and performance vehicles in the Rusty Eck Ford Buying Guide Hub.

Compare Ford Models
Your Next Step

Ready to Explore the Ford Mustang?

Shop new or pre-owned Mustangs, review current specials, value your trade or schedule a visit at Rusty Eck Ford in Wichita.

Shop New Mustangs Shop Pre-Owned Mustangs Value Your Trade Schedule a Test Drive

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.

Advertised price includes all dealer fees, dealer-installed accessories currently equipped on the vehicle, and all dealer discounts and incentives available to the general public unless otherwise stated in the vehicle details or offer disclosure. Optional accessories or products selected by the customer after vehicle advertisement are not included unless otherwise stated.

Price excludes applicable government fees and taxes, title, license, registration, finance charges, and optional products elected by the purchaser.

Certain manufacturer incentives or special APR programs may require qualification through the manufacturer’s captive lender and may not be combined with other offers. See vehicle details or dealership for complete eligibility requirements.

Vehicle pricing, availability, specifications, and equipment are subject to change without notice and may vary based on inventory availability and market conditions.

While every reasonable effort is made to ensure accuracy, dealer is not responsible for typographical, pricing, product information, advertising, or shipping errors. Dealer reserves the right to correct any error prior to sale.

All vehicles are subject to prior sale.